The Primary School Conference, held in the Canal Court, Newry, is the first of five conferences organised by the Department of Education, to address issues and concerns in relation to Transfer 2010.
Speaking at the conference, the Minister said: “We need a child-centred education system which meets the needs of the modern world and which delivers for all our children, allowing them to develop their individual strengths and talents.
“I intend to ensure the needs, aspirations, well-being and rights of children are at the heart of our education system. Many primary schools have made clear their deep dissatisfaction with the previous selective system and I have made steps towards building a new and fairer education system. No child should be branded a failure or have fewer chances in life, it is for that reason alone there will no longer be a state sponsored test at age 11.
“I am aware that some post-primary schools are planning to use entrance tests in Transfer 2010 and they have been communicating with primary schools with a view to generating assistance with preparation for these tests. My position on this is clear – you should not feel pressured. You have no obligation in respect of any selective admissions process, your obligation is to your pupils and teaching the Revised Curriculum. No child should be tested at 10 or 11 to give them the education to which they are entitled.”
The Minister continued: “My Department published Transfer 2010 guidance for consultation on 2 February 2009. By the end of the consultation period, I received over 3,000 responses which indicate the level of interest and opinion about this issue. On completion of analysis of the responses to this consultation and also the consultation on an Equality Impact Assessment of the guidance, final Transfer 2010 guidance will be prepared for publication.”
Notes to Editors:
1. Over 60 primary school Principals attended the conference from the Western Education and Library Board, the Southern Education and Library Board and the South Eastern Education and Library Board areas.
2. Media queries, contact the Department of Education Press Office on 028 9127 9701. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
