§ 34. Mr. Bowen Wellsasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if there is any evidence available to his Department that mixed ability teaching for children of secondary school age gives a better education to children than a system of separating the children according to their ability.
§ Dr. BoysonHer Majesty's inspectors have found that mixed ability teaching in comprehensive schools, to be successful, requires exceptional professional skills and strong commitment from the teachers involved. Local education authorities and schools must themselves judge the most effective method of organising their teaching groups, but my right hon. and learned Friend believes mixed ability teaching in secondary schools should in general be discouraged.