The governments proposal to allow existing grammar schools to expand and free schools the opportunity to become selective has become a hot topic in the news over the past few months. Now that the PM has confirmed her wishes to “relax the restrictions to stop selective schools from expanding”, educationalists and politicians are dividing once again over the age old grammar school debate.
As the Managing Director of KSOL, I believe that parents should have choice when it comes to secondary level education which is why we welcome an increase in grammar schools. It cannot be stressed enough that every child is different and our school system needs to reflect this by providing variety. However, the government should clearly lay out the style of teaching to expect from each school and ensure that measures are taken so that all schools are socially inclusive.
The return to grammar schools is long overdue but establishing these schools should be done in a measured way. The government has a number of obstacles to overcome to ensure a fair and socially encompassing introduction. Key points to consider are:
1.Pupil premium: The introduction of pupil premium has already demonstrated potential, with the Birmingham Consortium of Grammar Schools increasing their quota last year*. If grammar schools across the country are allowed to expand, the percentage of pupil premium places will also increase.
2. The 11plus entrance exams are of course the most highly criticised element of grammar schools. We believe that children should not be tested beyond the Year 5 curriculum – only a small proportion of the exam should reflect the Year 6 curriculum to identify if a child is working beyond the expected levels.
3.From an administrative point of view, the government should introduce a national test which is changed every year in order to ensure fairness. This may even extend to the creation of a new selection process which is not only fair but reflects the direction of a modern education system. For example, alongside academic testing, weighting could be considered by reports from primary teachers as well as physical or extra-curricular activities that demonstrate a child’s true potential.
Although the future of selective education is yet to be refined, we look forward to the implementation of a new strategy and we welcome this fresh outlook on the secondary school education system.
About KSOL:
KSOL are a forward thinking, supplementary educational company that believe no stone should be left unturned when it comes to a child’s education.
Sources:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/education-37311023
https://www.tes.com/news/school-news/breaking-news/exclusive-grammar-school-chief-dismisses-ministers-vision-tutor-proof
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