M2 and Y8 students set to transition in September, but principals’ and parents’ concerns are being reviewed
The Berkeley Institute, CedarBridge Academy and Sandys Secondary Middle School. File Photos
The planned transition of public middle-schoolers to senior schools appears to be less certain today, after school leaders cited concerns over readiness.
Government announced today that readiness reports from senior schools are being reviewed – and updates for parents are pending.
In November, Education Minister Diallo Rabain said the current M2 and M3 year groups, plus Year 8 students from already-transitioned Parish Primaries, would move on to Senior Schools in September 2025.
Sandys Secondary Middle is set to become the third public senior school, and alongside CedarBridge and Berkeley would transition to a five-year programme, taking on an additional academic year as M2 and Year 8 students transfer to senior schools as well as the usual M3s.
Questions now hang over these plans after the Ministry of Education advised that school leaders, teachers and parents have brought concerns to the acting minister.
A Ministry Spokesperson advised, “Understanding that this transition impacts students and families directly, the Ministry is now in the crucial phase of reviewing the readiness reports and recommendations from the three senior schools.”
“This review is essential to ensuring that the Year 9 curriculum is delivered effectively and that teachers receive the support they need to provide the best learning experience.”
“We recognise that parents and students have many questions, and we are committed to keeping school communities informed.”
Many M2 and Year 8 students have already attended Senior School taster sessions and selected Signature Programmes. The outcome of this current situation may determine what happens to them in September.
A source who asked to remain anonymous told our newsroom that this could affect parents who might have chosen to send children to private school instead, as they have missed deadlines.
The Ministry said the final senior school readiness report is expected next week, and updates will be shared with parents and students as soon as possible.
We asked to speak with the Acting Minister to get more clarity on this issue, but were told no further comment will be made at this time.
