Press Releases 2010

Press Release - No return to testing of children

Thursday, 18 February 2010

Ivan Wallace, distinguished former Chief Inspector in a major speech in 1998 - shortly before the Good Friday Agreement - warned that the continuation of a state sponsored 11+ would lead to a dangerously divided society, with 50% of pupils going to grammar schools and 50% attending secondary schools - separated mainly by social class.

How our politicians have failed us and hats off for a brave education minister who is at last prepared to face down the self interested minority who benefit from this status quo in favour of a better future for all our children.

Frank Bunting Northern Secretary said:

This issue needs to move on. A steep change is needed to address parental concerns about parity of esteem that has persisted too long between secondary and grammar schools. Public funding for grammar school prep. departments must cease as soon as possible. The disproportionate funding of post 16 pupils, vastly advantaging grammar schools must be ended.

The promised major review of school funding must be brought forward so that this resource can be used to benefit all our pupils equitably.

Early years and primary school funding needs to increase to ensure all pupils leaving primary schools can achieve the required standards in literacy and numeracy.

Only by addressing the real concerns of parents - as demonstrated in the number of children being entered in the private 11+ tests can progress be made.

The Minister's strategy as outlined in the Post Primary Review. The Entitlement Framework and school Area Based Planning is correct. Those calling for the return, even the temporary return, of state sponsored testing should be ashamed of themselves.