The Minister was speaking as the consortia employed by grammar schools issued the results of the unregulated tests held last December.
The Minister said: "Moving from primary to post-primary school can be an anxious time for children. It is undoubtedly all the more anxious when some schools are persisting with the practice of selecting and rejecting 11 year old children based on an outdated system of academic selection.
“I wish all children, those who sat and those who did not sit tests, well in their choice of school for the next phase of their education.
“From next week parents of all P7 children will meet with the primary principal to help choose the post-primary school their child will attend from September. Every parent wants the best possible education for their child and, as Education Minister, I am working to reform a system that is out of date and does not meet the needs of every child.
“Last June my Department published Transfer 2010, the recommended policy on how children should transfer from primary to post-primary whatever their perceived social status. This policy sets out a clear path for schools where they could ensure equality was a fundamental consideration in their admissions criteria.
“I am encouraged by the fact that an increasing number of parents decided not to put their children through these tests. It is also a positive development that some grammar schools have indicated their intention to stop using entrance tests and I hope that others follow this path. The Catholic Bishops have already stated their intention to end selection in Catholic schools and I welcome this clear sign of leadership.
“My officials and I are available to meet with any Grammar schools to discuss their pathways for the future. It is important that all those involved in education work together with the interests of our children at the top of the agenda. We need to build an education system founded on equality that delivers education to the highest possible standards.”
Notes to editors:
- Media queries to the Department of Education Press Office on 028 9127 9207. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
