I am being interviewed by Radio Kent on this topic, 9.10 a.m. on Wednesday
Kent primary school headteachers are now being consulted by KCC on the nature of assessment for grammar school selection this year. Whilst there are various options, the key element of the consultation is whether to delay the Kent Test until mid-October, with consequent changes to the admission process as outlined in a previous article.
Gavin Williamson, Secretary of State for Education has said: "We’re going to be looking at working with local authorities who have grammar school systems in their area as to how best we can ensure that children from the most disadvantaged backgrounds are not disadvantaged as they look at taking the 11-plus in the future.” There is no sign whatever of any intervention or even awareness of this pledge in this consultation.
I have written three previous articles over the past few weeks about the Kent Test, looking also at issues of disadvantage in admissions. These are:
Proposal for the Kent Test 2020 (Personal); Grammar Schools and Pupil Premium Children; and The Kent 11 Plus and Coronavirus: Part Two.
Other aspects of the Consultation cover the consequences of a delay in testing which would mean results being issued after the national closing date of 31st October, which I have looked at here. My suggestion of increasing the number of choices to six is picked up and consulted on, but would surely be inevitable if parents are to make meaningful choices of secondary school without knowing the outcome of the Test.
The other major issue consulted on is what should happen if the pandemic situation deteriorates. The the option suggested is a system of recommendation supported by evidence of academic achievement by each school. Frankly, I think this is unworkable.
I have had several comments about the position of super selective schools under such a scheme. Quite simply it may be that all candidates for these schools would be required to take the Kent Test. Other Kent grammar schools would be available for those unable to sit the Test, via the HTA route. As it is, Skinners School which had 10 places available for PP children last year, was only able to recruit four PP children. Tonbridge Grammar has made 10 available for 2021 entry. These would still be accessible for children found selective via the HTA route.
However, it could only be accepted by KCC if it met the legal requirements for change. In practice I believe it requires less change than any suggested alternative. Given the stated view of the Secretary of State above to support children from the most disadvantaged backgrounds, it is surely a way forward.
At the end of the day, this has to be a decision made by KCC members and the Cabinet Member for Education, in line with legislation. I don't envy them.