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Wales urged to stop 'obsessing’ over data

Education policy in Wales has become “data-obsessed” to the detriment of pupils and teachers, according to a new report.

The Welsh independent, non-political think-tank the Bevan Foundation says education chiefs should stop “obsessing” over indicators such as PISA and start looking at a broader range of issues, such as the wellbeing of pupils.

It also recommends an end to the controversial school categorisation system, which it warns has led to “parent-flight” from what are perceived to be low-performing schools.

The report – After PISA: A way forward for education in Wales? – which is written by Professor David Egan, says it is essential that families and communities play a much greater role in schools.

It says that poverty and the impact that it has on achievement is the major challenge facing Wales’ education system, and calls for a significant increase in the support available to teachers.

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