New and existing grammars will have to demonstrate how they’ll improve the “social mix”, says Schools Minister
“Strict conditions” will be implemented to increase the number of pupils from poor backgrounds in selective schools and they will apply to new and existing grammar schools.
Nick Gibb, the Schools Minister, told MPs in the Education Select Committee that selection will be possible only if schools improve access to disadvantaged pupils.
“Under our proposals, existing grammar schools and new grammar schools would only be allowed to open if they met strict conditions designed to ensure increased numbers of less well-off pupils have access to selective education.” The Minister added that new grammar schools and those looking to expand will have to demonstrate how they will “improve the social mix”.
SCHOOLS NorthEast is holding a Green Paper consultation workshop on Wednesday, 16 November. This free event is open to all school leaders who wish to help us shape a North East response to the consultation proposals.
It will include:
• An overview of the Green Paper proposals.
• Presentations from representatives of faith schools, selective schools, independent schools and universities, on the role they see themselves playing within state education.
• Workshop sessions to discuss the proposals and how SCHOOLS NorthEast should respond.More information about the Return of the Grammar School? Green Paper Consultation Workshop is available on our website. Please contact info@schoolsnortheast.com to register.
Mr Gibb mentioned a list of proposed sanctions for grammar schools that don’t meet the social mobility requirements, stating that some could lead to funding cuts that would hamper pupil recruitment, as well as the school losing its ability to select.
The Green Paper, Schools that work for everyone, states that new or expanding selective schools should contribute in a “meaningful way to improving outcomes for all pupils”.
The Schools Minister also told the Committee that developing a tutor-proof test for academic selection at 11 was the “Holy Grail” for grammar schools and an objective for the Government.