Testing Of English

EDM number 1296 in 1992-93, proposed by Peter Hardy on 02/02/1993.

That this House notes with serious concern the woeful position which has now been reached in regard to the national testing of English in schools; recognises that the trials have been quite unsatisfactorily prepared; is aware that the pilot testing has been demonstrably inadequate; deplores the quality of the advice given to English teachers which has been marked by inconsistency and contradiction; notes that these teachers have faced distraction and confusion and been caused serious frustration; and, therefore, in condemning the careless approach which has been so clearly adopted, suggests that Education Ministers should look at these matters again to avoid adding to the impression that their Department is now to be seen as presenting a danger to the quality of schools rather than serving as an instrument in the cause of wisdom and educational advancement.

This motion has been signed by a total of 54 MPs.