Grammar Schools

Lord Mackay of Clashfern Excerpts

Wednesday 14th September 2016 Lords Chamber

[Lord Nash]

I am fully aware that tutoring is a thriving business, and I know that many of these tutoring firms provide tutors pro bono to comprehensive schools—in fact, we have such a programme in my own schools. We are working with the Grammar School Heads Association to devise tests which are much more difficult to tutor for. As for the last question, I am not going to predict the answer to that.

[Lord Mackay of Clashfern (Con)]

My Lords, the word “ability” is used in the Question. Does that include, for example, manual dexterity and artistic skill?

[Lord Nash]

Schools are allowed to select for a certain amount in some aptitudes, and of course early years do look at making sure that the motor skills of young children are developed, but I think the answer in this context is no.