NEW TESTING PROPOSALS

8 January 2007

Commenting on Alan Johnson’s proposals on testing, assessment and personalised learning. Steve Sinnott, General Secretary of the National Union of Teachers, Britain’s biggest teachers’ organisation said.

“For nearly twenty years successive Governments have clung to the idea that testing at 7, 11 and 14 is set in stone, irrespective of the evidence that it undermines children’s learning.

“I urge Alan Johnson to ensure that his consultation is genuine. We must ensure that teaching to the test becomes a thing of the past.

“Giving personal tuition to children who need it most is a bold and brave move. Many children from the leafy suburbs already receive private tuition because their parents can afford it. It is only fair that children from disadvantaged backgrounds should receive similar help.

“I wish the Government had been as bold in reforming its system of tests, targets and tables. It should be unequivocal in getting rid of the current blizzard of school performance targets and league tables.

“Teacher’s own assessments have been shown to be more thorough and accurate than imposed tests. He should go the extra mile and thoroughly reform testing and assessment. This has been something long wished for by parents and teachers alike.

“The Government has not yet moved away sufficiently from a one size fits all regime. Schools piloting the proposals should not have to carry on with the current system of targets, tests and league tables as well.