Which government got rid of grammar schools?

In 1998, the Blair government passed the ‘School Standards and Framework Act’ which forbade the establishment of new all-selective schools, and made provisions for local ballots to be held on the future of grammar schools.

Who shut grammar schools?

More than 90 per cent of secondary-age children now attend comprehensive schools. And Margaret Thatcher holds the prize as the secretary of state who closed or merged the most grammar schools for a comprehensive alternative.

When were grammar schools abolished?

Most grammar schools were phased out, either becoming comprehensives or being converted into private schools, but many were allowed to maintain their status and still exist today. In 1998, Tony Blair’s government banned the creation of new grammar schools.

Is it better to go to a grammar school?

What are the PROS of grammar schools? Good results: Grammar schools get great academic results. This is not only because of the selection of more able pupils, but also because they can often be pushed harder due to a more equal level of ability in class.

In which ways did the Conservative government of 1979 1997 introduce competition between schools?

Formula funding was introduced, which meant that the more children a school could attract to it, the more money the school would receive. Open Enrollment and choice for parents was brought back, so that parents could choose or influence which school their children went to.

Does 11 plus still exist?

The 11 Plus is a selective entrance examination that can be taken by pupils in year 6. Up until the early 1970s, all children took the 11 Plus, however, the test is no longer compulsory. It is used by those in areas with grammar schools and selective independent schools to identify academic ability and potential.

When did 11 plus stop?

When was the final test? The last tests were sat in November 2008. What has replaced the 11-plus? The Labour government, under direct rule, had planned to abolish academic selection altogether but a deal under the St Andrew’s Agreement won it a reprieve.

Why are there so many grammar schools in Kent?

There are more grammar schools in Kent than any other county in England, which is attracting families with secondary school age children to the region. With over forty grammar schools to choose from living in the school’s catchment area is a must for many parents.

Is Thatcherism in education a genuine legacy?

This is why Thatcherism is a genuine legacy as it underlies the whole education system and agenda. However, its domination is not absolute. Not all schools, particularly at primary level, are academies. Social objectives have been perceptible in government policies since 1997 with measures like the Sure Start scheme or the pupil premium.

Who was the Education Secretary under Thatcher?

Kenneth Baker, education secretary from 1986-89 with Margaret Thatcher. All schools today are governed by the principles of ‘open enrolment’ and ‘local management’ laid out in their 1988 Education Reform Act. Photograph: Keystone/Getty Images

Who closed the most grammar schools for comprehensive schools?

More than 90 per cent of secondary-age children now attend comprehensive schools. And Margaret Thatcher holds the prize as the secretary of state who closed or merged the most grammar schools for a comprehensive alternative.

Do Tories like grammar schools?

Plenty of Tories loved grammars, as most had been to them. But since 1944, admission had been by a supposedly objective “intelligence” test, not an academic exam. For the first time, middle-class children were being excluded from their ancestral schools in favour of at least a few “bright” working-class ones.