Is AQE test about to be scrapped?

The education minister, Peter Weir, has a report delivered by Professor Peter Tymms of Durham University which could lead to a single inferior transfer test proposal, which may be used to destroy eight years of stability surrounding selection by not adopting the best and most trusted test.

The rationale for appointing Professor Tymms was highlighted by Carla Lockhart of the DUP, borrowing Sinn Fein language on November 2 when she said: “To have a system of academic selection in which there is more than one test isn’t sustainable on (sic) the longer term. It creates pressure on teachers to provide help and support and not least parents and pupils. A resolution to single transfer impasse will be best for our children.

“We need to create a system which gives equality to all in the education system. At present we have multiple transfer tests which creates ambiguity in grading as well as extra tests for those who chose to sit both.”

In a series of letters and articles published by the News Letter, the Parental Alliance for Choice in Education have identified the AQE test as the model of best practice.

We fear this model is not going to be followed.

The DUP have made a virtue of reminding the public of their claim that it was they who saved grammar schools from destruction by their partners in government, Sinn Fein.

It is disconcerting to note that the principals and governors of the majority of grammar schools have stood silently by while no decision was made on the test they were operating, all the while benefiting from the flawless precision that the AQE test affords their incoming year 8 pupils.

Peter Weir should say he will reject any finding that abandons AQE. The AQE test has functioned without error since 2009.

Astoundingly, 40-50% of pupils on free school meals who take the AQE test secure scores which will admit them to grammar school.

Those thousands of parents who wish to send their child to a state grammar school must be told the education minister’s unequivocal position on this important matter.

Stephen Elliott, Chair, Parental Alliance for Choice in Education, Belfast