Green Party: Grammar school expansion is height of evidence-free policymaking
7 March 2017
* Jonathan Bartley: “Theresa May should be getting rid of current grammar schools – not paving the way for new ones.”
The Green Party has accused the Government of “evidence-free policymaking” after the announcement that the budget will pave the way for new grammar schools.
Research from the Sutton Trust has found selective schools benefit those who are already advantaged the most, while failing to serve the needs of those who most need support. [2]
Jonathan Bartley, co-leader of the Green Party, said:
“This is the height of evidence-free policymaking that we know will entrench inequality in an already divided society.
“If Theresa May was serious about making sure every child has a good school place she would be getting rid of current grammar schools – not paving the way for new ones.
“The evidence shows grammars benefit the already advantaged and fail those who need the most help. Instead of ploughing money into selective education the Prime Minister should be investing in our state schools and creating far more places than this scheme will provide.
“We need education policy that gives every single child the best education possible – not just those whose family can afford a tutor.”
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