Tories launch inquiry on exams and testing
Cathy Wallace
Monday, July 21, 2008
The Conservative Party has launched an inquiry into testing, assessment and exams.
Shadow children’s secretary Michael Gove said the inquiry, to be led by former rector of Imperial College, Sir Richard Sykes, was sparked by the delays in this years SATs results. The inquiry will look at how to restore confidence in the exams system.
Gove said: “The debacle over SATs this year has badly damaged the confidence of parents, teachers, universities and employers in the current system of testing. There is widespread concern that tests and exams are not rigorous, robust or relevant enough and I am delighted Sir Richard has agreed to look into this whole area for us.”
The inquiry will look at how to get the most out of testing and how to improve confidence in exam qualifications.
Gove said: “The debacle over SATs this year has badly damaged the confidence of parents, teachers, universities and employers in the current system of testing. There is widespread concern that tests and exams are not rigorous, robust or relevant enough and I am delighted Sir Richard has agreed to look into this whole area for us.”
The inquiry will look at how to get the most out of testing and how to improve confidence in exam qualifications.
