27/03/2007

Politicians set to debate transfer test

Local politicians are set to focus their attentions on finding a substitute for academic selection following yesterday’s devolution deal.

The last 11-plus is scheduled for 2008, and the power-sharing agreement removes any suggestion that academic selection may be banned by the British Government.

Education Minister Maria Eagle is expected to be back at work this week, however, it is unlikely any decisions will be made.

The Association for Quality Education, which represents lobby groups in grammar schools has appealed for an alternative for all children.

It has drawn up a number of possible methods for selection including regular class tests and a number of computer based systems.

(JM/SP)

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