25th July 2012 12:46
By Blue Tutors
‘Brainbox Test’ - New Fodder for Pushy Parents
A new test which is designed to push those most gifted and talented pupils is being hailed as ‘a dog whistle to the middle class’, according to education expert John Bangs, of the Institute of Education.
The new Level 6 national tests in English and maths are set at the expected level of a 14-year-old.
The government reintroduced them this year to stretch the most able pupils.
But Bangs says the tests will be used to identify elite primaries and will result in schools being pushed to provide the tests as well as coaching for those thought capable of sitting the tests.
A Department for Education spokeswoman said: "We want schools to stretch their most able pupils. It is hugely important that every child is given the opportunity to realise their full potential.
"We trust that schools will only enter pupils who they believe are working significantly beyond Level 5."
She said it followed on from Lord Bew's review of primary school testing which said it was "crucial that the most able pupils are challenged effectively and that the system is able to recognise and celebrate their progress".
Deputy general secretary of the Association of Teachers and Lecturers Martin Johnson said: "We are not opposed to the idea that if you have a got a particularly talented youngster in your Year 6 that you shouldn't do things to stretch them.
"It is the question of formalising that in a test."
BBC News 05/07/2012