Private school entry exam is outdated, say headteachers
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.For more than a century, the Common Entrance exam has determined the fate of thousands of children seeking places at leading private schools. Now, it seems it might have failed its own test: that of keeping pace with modern life.
A summit is to be heldthis month to consider whether it should undergo radical changes, amid growing concerns from senior teachers that the exam is outdated.
Dr Anthony Seldon, head of Wellington College, has described it as a "roast beef and Yorkshire pudding kind of exam which is very staid".
"It is a test of rote learning and the quality of prep school teachers, rather than a reflection of the abilities and thinking of the candidates," he added.
Dr Alex Peterken, headmaster of Cheltenham College, where the summit isbeing held, added: "In my view, the time has arrived for an overhaul of the CE exams."
The exam, set by the Independent Schools Examinations Board, was introduced in 1904 and is normally sat by 13-year-olds in prep schools seeking places at senior schools.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments