More than 20% of pupils gaining entry to a grammar school are not taking the 11-plus exam, according to newly released figures. Pupils are getting into the selective system by taking head teacher assessments (HTAs) instead of the controversial Kent Test. The number of children getting the qualification to get a grammar place was up against the target for entry in September 2024. HTAs are awarded by a panel of heads who analyse overall academic ability and possible reasons for under-performance. Kent education expert Peter Read is in favour of the HTA system as it catches those able pupils who …
