Alternattiva Demokratika has strongly welcomed the proposed reform to the Junior Lyceum examination system and the changes to the policy of streaming adopted in local primary schools.

Mario Mallia and Stephen Cachia, AD Deputy Chairpersons, said that “AD has been proposing such reforms for years and we strongly support this new reform. We believe that this reform will bring about a breath of fresh air to our schools, removing the stifling shackles the Junior Lyceum exam has spread amongst all stakeholders in the educational field. In particular, the reform should start a process which changes an educational system which has failed too many students over the years.

The reform also finds the right balance between change and the preservation of the positive aspects of the present system. The manner in which the transition from primary to secondary school will now proceed in a smooth manner without the need for a selective examination, while retaining an a benchmark assessment which sets national standards indicates the serious manner this reform has been proposed.

This proposal should be followed by a clear policy which clearly outlines the important educational advantages of this reform for all stakeholders. Such a policy should work to empower colleges and individual schools to implement these reforms in the best way possible. Colleges and schools should also be strongly supported by Government in implementing these reforms, particularly by providing all the resources necessary for supporting class teachers in their day to day work in class.”

Arnold Cassola, Alternattiva Demokratika Chairperson, concluded: “Hopefully, this reform in the Maltese educational system will mean that Malta will move close to satisfying the Lisbon criteria, moving towards a knowledge society where everbody is given the chance to develop his or her particular skills and compentencies. It is very important that our country provides a postive educational experience for the largest possible number of students.”