HC Deb 25 April 1963 vol 676 cc398-9
17. Mr. Dodds

asked the Minister of Education why the Kent education authorities do not provide a new set of papers each year for children taking the 11-plus examination; and, in view of the procedure followed in this respect in Kent, what precautions are taken to ensure that the answers are not made available to children before taking the examination.

Mr. Chataway

This is a matter within the discretion of the local education authority. I understand that the Kent selection arrangements include the working of a completely new set of tests each year by pupils in their last year at primary schools. In addition, however, pupils take standardised tests during each of their last four years at primary schools, and these test papers are kept in the schools and re-used from time to time. They are, I am informed, kept under lock and key by head teachers when not in use and the authority has given strict instructions that in no circumstances may any such material be taken away or remain in the possession of assistant teachers or children.

Mr. Dodds

Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware of the deep concern which followed the publicity given to the fact that Kent possesses only three sets of papers which have been used in rotation for the past nine years; that headmasters at cramming schools know the answers and that many children get the answers before they sit the 11-plus examination? If other counties can have new papers, why should Kent, on grounds of economy, have only three sets of papers? Will the Minister take some action?

Mr. Chataway

I understand that economy does not come into this. As I explained to the hon. Member, this is one of the ingredients in the local education authority's selection arrangements. It reserves the right to withdraw material from any school found to be using it in a manner contrary to instructions. If this should happen the pupils affected would be tested again in another school.

Mr. Dodds

In view of that unsatisfactory Answer, I beg to give notice that I shall try to raise the matter as early as possible.

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