MSPs launch probe into future of P1 testing

‘Urge teachers to engage with process’

AN inquiry has been launched into the future of standardised testing in Scotland’s schools.

MSPs on Holyrood’s education committee will investigate what role the tests should play in the classroom.

Pupils in Primary 1, 4 and 7 sit standardised assessments, as well as those in S3.

But Education Secretary John Swinney last month launched a review of the P1 tests after a majority of MSPs voted for a motion calling for them to be scrapped.

Scottish Liberal Democrat education spokesman Tavish Scott said: ‘Parliament voted to end the testing of five-year-old pupils in P1. But the Government has pressed on for another year.

‘It’s right that the Scottish parliament’s education committee will look into this matter and I urge teachers and anyone with a view to engage with this process.

‘The very fact that this inquiry needs to take place is a rebuke to the Scottish Government’s high-handed handling of early years education.’

Mr Swinney has pledged that his review would be ‘led by the evidence’ and could conclude the testing regime should be reformed or scrapped altogether.

Education committee convener Clare Adamson stressed that her inquiry will not ‘duplicate’ work the Scottish Government has announced, which will focus only on P1 assessments.

She said: ‘Instead, this inquiry will be an open look at the evidence base for using standardised assessments across primary and secondary schools. We want to find out what role these play in Scotland’s schools.’

A Scottish Government spokesman said: ‘We welcome the opportunity to support the committee in understanding the value of standardised assessments for children in P1, 4, 7 and S3.

‘This will complement the independent, evidence-led review into P1 assessment’s future announced by the Deputy First Minister last month.’