I know everyone over age 40 thinks the country's going to the dogs, but I'm sure the standard of education is steadily getting worse. In particular, teenager's general knowledge is abysmal. The 11+ was abolished for social reasons, not educational, and the comprehensive system has failed. 30 years ago any bright kid could go to a grammar school and receive education as good or better than the best private schools. King Edwards was one of the best schools in the country. Instead of raising the standard of the Secondary Moderns, Harold Wilsons government sought equality by abolishing the grammar schools. It's failed!
Bring back the Grammar Schools!

Which of these Grammar Schools would you say has been abolished? Grammar Schools (http://www.athey-educational.co.uk/advice/grammarsites.htm)

I strongly endorse the OP's suggestion. Social mobility has been declining in recent times and has, I think, shown a particular decline under this Labour government. How ironic is that?

Under the comprehensive system it is possible - certainly in large conurbations - for better off parents to 'buy' a better state education for their offspring by means of the price of house they can afford. How socialist is that?

Grammar schools were the engine of social mobility, and the engine of values such as application and self-discipline.

Northern Ireland, which retained the 11+ and the selective system, generally outperforms the rest of the UK. Its GCSE Grade A-C average in 2004 was 11% higher than that of England (and almost 100% of NI pupils are educated in the state sector, whereas England's performance is boosted by a larger independent sector).

I went to a grammar school, in England... I only finished a couple of years ago... They're definitely still around in Kent.

:banana: i go to king edwards