News
Walsall primary school results get worse
The government’s method of analysing standards of teaching and learning and pupil progress in schools suggests that Walsall is moving backwards in providing a decent education to children in the borough.
In figures published by the Department for Children, Schools and Families, out of 151 local authorities, Walsall was placed at 106, a drop of 12 places compared to last year. The results of the annual national curriculum tests for 10 and 11 year olds, known as SATS, show that achievement in the basic knowledge of English, Maths and Science is in decline. The complex calculations involved in placing schools and local authorities in the league tables give a maximum score of 300 for individual schools. This year, Walsall scored 243 compared to 247 last year, below this year’s national average of 247.
Managing Director of Walsall Children’s Services – Serco, Tony Stainer said: “Although our position in the Key Stage 2 results table has dropped, within the four Black Country local authorities we have the second highest position for English and Maths combined and are second highest in all three subjects.”
The score in Sandwell remains unchanged at 236 out of 300, Dudley dropped 1 point to 248 and Wolverhampton’s score is 239. Birmingham achieved a score of 237.
SATS results as an indicator of the success of a school remain deeply unpopular with parents and teachers. The National Association of Head Teachers said: “League tables of pupil performance are misleading to parents. They are also demoralising for schools and school leaders, particularly those working tirelessly in tough communities, and they add nothing to the impetus for school improvement.”
Nationally, more than 1,400 primary schools in England fell below the government’s floor target in English and Maths. And only 55% of pupils in each school reached the level expected of them in both subjects.
Serco, a private international service company, signed a multi-million pound 12 year contract with Walsall Council in 2008 for the provision of education in the Walsall borough. Serco also runs education in Bradford and Stoke on Trent. Out of the 151 education authorities, Bradford was placed at 135 and Stoke at 143. Serco’s contract with Stoke will end in March 2010 and is not expected to be renewed.