07 December 2010

UK Schools 'Under-Performing' Internationally

According to a new survey from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), UK secondary schools are under-performing in the global league table.

British pupils have slipped down the charts, against their international competitors, in reading, maths and science.

The study, based on two-hour tests taken in 65 school systems around the world, found that

Finland and South Korea, achieved the best results.

Both countries also topped the tables last year.

Education Secretary Michael Gove said the survey highlighted the "urgent need to reform our school system".

In Britain, Wales failed to keep up with England, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

According to the results of tests taken last year by an international sample of 15-year-olds, the latest findings of the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) survey show the UK lagging behind.

The survey by the OECD compares educational standards around the world.

Back in 2000, 32 countries took part in the survey and the UK ranked 7th in reading skills.

However the figures for 2009 show that out of 65 countries, the UK has fallen to 25th place.

Countries such as Norway, Poland, Estonia, Canada, and Singapore now rank higher against the UK in reading ability. South Korea and Finland top the table.

(BMcN)