Menu
09/10/2002
Opinion divided over proposals to scrap 11-plus exams
Education Minister Martin McGuinness's decision to scrap the 11-plus Transfer Test have created deep divisions across the political arena today.
Mr McGuinness revealed that next year's tests would go ahead, but the tests would be abolished thereafter.
He said there had been "overwhelming" support for abolition following the publication of the Burns Report in October last year. The report, which detailed proposals on how education should be taken forward in Northern Ireland in the 21st century, had been under public consultation until yesterday.
However, the education minister's view was countered by the UUP's Danny Kennedy who said that the majority of households and teachers who returned their consultation forms were in fact against scrapping the tests.
Mr Kennedy added: "I am disappointed that the Minister has adopted a high-handed approach and continues to pursue a failed political ideology which has been rejected by the vast majority of parents and teachers of Northern Ireland."
Teachers unions have, however, supported the Minister's move saying the current system distorted the primary curriculum and created a situation where all children do not have true equality of opportunity.
The SDLP's education spokesman, Tommy Gallagher, also supported the Minister's decision. He said the present method of academic selection gave rise to serious inequalities.
The consultation process included over 200,000 household response forms, 1,300 submissions from education interests and the public, responses from over 500 schools and interviews with young people.
(MB)
Mr McGuinness revealed that next year's tests would go ahead, but the tests would be abolished thereafter.
He said there had been "overwhelming" support for abolition following the publication of the Burns Report in October last year. The report, which detailed proposals on how education should be taken forward in Northern Ireland in the 21st century, had been under public consultation until yesterday.
However, the education minister's view was countered by the UUP's Danny Kennedy who said that the majority of households and teachers who returned their consultation forms were in fact against scrapping the tests.
Mr Kennedy added: "I am disappointed that the Minister has adopted a high-handed approach and continues to pursue a failed political ideology which has been rejected by the vast majority of parents and teachers of Northern Ireland."
Teachers unions have, however, supported the Minister's move saying the current system distorted the primary curriculum and created a situation where all children do not have true equality of opportunity.
The SDLP's education spokesman, Tommy Gallagher, also supported the Minister's decision. He said the present method of academic selection gave rise to serious inequalities.
The consultation process included over 200,000 household response forms, 1,300 submissions from education interests and the public, responses from over 500 schools and interviews with young people.
(MB)
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
25 November 2024
SDLP Seeks Views On Proposed Regional Jobs, Skills and Investment Bill
The SDLP has announced the launch of a public consultation of their proposed Regional Jobs, Skills and Investment Bill, describing it as an opportunity to rebalance the economy across the North. The consultation opened online today and will close on Sunday 16th February.
SDLP Seeks Views On Proposed Regional Jobs, Skills and Investment Bill
The SDLP has announced the launch of a public consultation of their proposed Regional Jobs, Skills and Investment Bill, describing it as an opportunity to rebalance the economy across the North. The consultation opened online today and will close on Sunday 16th February.
24 January 2020
P7 Pupils To Receive Entrance Test Results
The Education Minister has sent his best wishes to primary school pupils awaiting entrance test results this weekend. Official marks for CEA's AQE and the GL PPTC Assessment will be published on Saturday morning, 25 January, arriving at children's homes that morning.
P7 Pupils To Receive Entrance Test Results
The Education Minister has sent his best wishes to primary school pupils awaiting entrance test results this weekend. Official marks for CEA's AQE and the GL PPTC Assessment will be published on Saturday morning, 25 January, arriving at children's homes that morning.
09 February 2024
Education Minister Commits To 'World Class Education System'
New Education Minister, Paul Givan, has pledged to build on Northern Ireland's reputation for providing a high quality, innovative and inclusive world class education system. Speaking after visiting Rathmore Grammar School, the Minister said: "Education is the cornerstone of our society.
Education Minister Commits To 'World Class Education System'
New Education Minister, Paul Givan, has pledged to build on Northern Ireland's reputation for providing a high quality, innovative and inclusive world class education system. Speaking after visiting Rathmore Grammar School, the Minister said: "Education is the cornerstone of our society.
11 November 2020
Education Minister Praises 'Education In The Community' Programme
An 'education in the community' programme aimed at improving educational achievement for young people has been praised by Education Minister Peter Weir. Mr Weir was visiting Monkstown Boxing Club to meet pupils who have taken part in the ASPIRE programme, developed by Abbey Community College in partnership with the club.
Education Minister Praises 'Education In The Community' Programme
An 'education in the community' programme aimed at improving educational achievement for young people has been praised by Education Minister Peter Weir. Mr Weir was visiting Monkstown Boxing Club to meet pupils who have taken part in the ASPIRE programme, developed by Abbey Community College in partnership with the club.
18 February 2016
Education Minister Highlights Importance Of Pre-School Education
Education Minister John O'Dowd has highlighted the importance of pre-school education during a visit to Forkhill Pre-School Playgroup in County Armagh. During the visit, the minister was given a tour of the playground by pupils of the school.
Education Minister Highlights Importance Of Pre-School Education
Education Minister John O'Dowd has highlighted the importance of pre-school education during a visit to Forkhill Pre-School Playgroup in County Armagh. During the visit, the minister was given a tour of the playground by pupils of the school.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
