Assembly backs 'interim 11-plus'

The assembly has voted narrowly in favour of commissioning a new version of the 11-plus.

However, Education Minister Caitriona Ruane said she would not reintroduce any sort of academic selection.

The UUP asked the assembly to approve an interim method from next year. It wants literacy and numeracy tests to be prepared for use in the future.

It passed by 43 votes to 41, but Ms Ruane said those backing the motion had their "eyes and ears closed".

She said she would not bring in even a temporary form of selection.

The minister said: "Let me be clear, the 11-plus is gone and it will not be coming back in any shape or form."

Ms Ruane also said that "Transfer 2010 is my department's policy for the transfer of children from primary to post-primary".

"If followed, the guidance will deliver an effective and fair system which will benefit all," she said.

The Ulster Unionist motion also called for the pupil profile compiled by primary schools to be used as part of the transfer to grammar schools.

The final 11-plus was held in Northern Ireland's schools last November.

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