Speaking after the meeting, the Minister said: "I had previously met with the teaching unions to listen to their views, but thought it important to update them following last week’s Executive meeting. The unions share my view that academic selection is unneccessary and we need to develop an education system that is based on equality for all children and young people.
"I assured the unions that my proposals for an interim test over the three year transition period would not impact adversely on the revised curriculum. Any new test would be based around literacy and numeracy skills and will be thoroughly tested before use.
"The unions recognise the need for change, where children and not institutions are the most important consideration.
"Every day teachers see the impact our outdated education system has on our children and young people and I welcome their unions’ contribution to this important debate."
