COE Exchange

Latest figures released in the United Kingdom reveal that one in four children by age 11 are unable to reach requirements in math and English. In all, 150,000 children of the 600,000 in their age cohort are unable to meet national standards. In 797 schools, fewer than half of students attained the level desired of 11 year olds. In contrast, 352 schools scored a “perfect hand” in which every student reached math and English standards. Publication of the league tables were late due to problems in the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority.

Ironically, the results that were released are the highest achieved since the tests were introduced in 1992. This year could be the last in which the tests are given in their present form since Schools Secretary, Ed Balls, appointed a committee to review the entire issue of testing and assessment.

Hall Meadow Primary School in Kettering, Northampstonshire, had the highest rating with just about everyone of the 214 pupils not only meeting standards but attaining levels expected of 14 year-olds. Headteacher Lorraine Cullen is adamant there was no coaching for the tests. “We monitor standards right from their start so no child falls behind where they were initially.”

Crays Hill Primary School in Billericay, Essex, had the worst results. Four years previously, the school had good results, but parents began withdrawing their children from the school when a “travellers’ camp” (Romas) was established in the area. Now, not a single child in the school meets national standards.