Education Minister Priya Manickchand has revealed that students attending various prestigious secondary schools will now have the option of cross-streaming, eliminating the need to rewrite exams in fifth form. This significant policy change aims to address the subject restrictions that some students face and provide them with more flexibility in their academic journey.
Minister Manickchand made this announcement during the commissioning of a new wing at Bishops’ High School, stating that all national schools will implement cross-streaming. Starting this year, fourth-year students will have the opportunity to write subjects like Mathematics, English, Literature, one Foreign Language, and possibly EDPM if they meet the eligibility criteria.
This policy adjustment comes as a response to the growing number of students seeking transfers due to subject limitations imposed by their schools. The Minister clarified that there is no mandate for students to re-take subjects completed in fourth form for matriculation, contrary to the stance of some schools.
Addressing concerns about the workload associated with school-based assessments (SBAs), Minister Manickchand explained that, based on consultations, these assessments will commence earlier, starting in third form. This approach will provide students with practical exposure in alignment with CXC requirements.
The Minister also emphasized that measures will be implemented to address the logistical aspects of staff supervision and marking. Circulars will be issued to disseminate detailed information about these announcements.
Reporter: Delicia Janneire, NCN News