Grammar Schools - The Facts

Grammar schools are one part of Northern Ireland 's post-primary education system. They are NOT elitist. They are NOT exclusive.

BUT they do provide an excellent well-rounded education for pupils whose aptitude is for academic-based learning as opposed to vocational learning.

Northern Ireland 's grammar schools are an integrated part of an education system that is evolving to meet the changing needs of the 21 st Century.

Grammar schools draw pupils from every socio-demographic section of our community. There are both Catholic and Protestant

Grammar schools produce success at both GCSE and ‘A' Level examinations.

Yet Government has ignored that success. The contribution grammar schools could make to policies such as Education Action Zones has been ignored. The contribution grammar schools currently make to Northern Ireland has been ignored.

But grammar schools know that the current system needs reform. It can be better.

Grammar schools agree with the principles that guide reform – principles that state that EVERY child deserves the right opportunities; that every child should be valued; and that every child's potential should be maximised.

We want to make a positive contribution to supporting the future of education – we believe the government proposals will not support the future, but will create chaos in an educational experiment that will destroy standards of success while not beating failure.

How you can help is simple – contact your local politician expressing your support for grammar schools; contact the Department of Education; speak up for the best education system in the UK.