There has been a dip in the number of students due to sit this year’s Barbados Secondary Schools’ Entrance Examination (BSSEE) compared to the two previous years.
The Ministry of Educational Transformation reported yesterday that 2 981 children are down to write today’s test, also known as the Common Entrance or 11-Plus.
While the ministry did not give the breakdown in boys and girls, last year 3 011 students comprising 1 493 girls and 1 518 boys sat the exam, while in 2023, there 3 295 students.
Students from both public and private primary schools will assemble at the 21 secondary schools to take the test to determine which secondary school they will enter come September.
Chief Education Officer Dr Ramona Archer-Bradshaw reported yesterday that 16 students requested permission to sit the BSSEE at an early age (ten years old), while 116 asked for a deferral – 106 from Class 3 and ten from Class 4.
Special requests
Additionally, 36 requested an exemption from writing the exam.
She noted that this year the ministry also received 128 special requests compared to 183 in 2024, and 180 in 2023, with requests ranging from scribes to large print, readers and/ or extra time.
“We as a ministry are fully prepared for the administration of this examination and extend our best wishes to all students participating in the BSSEE,” Archer-Bradshaw added.
Minister of Educational Transformation, Senator Chad Blackman, gave the students a message of encouragement.
“To our nation’s Class 4 students, as some 2 981 of you prepare to sit the Barbados Secondary Schools’ Entrance Examination . . . , I want you to know how proud we all are of each and every
one of you. This is an important moment, but it does not define your future. It is one step, amongst many, in your journey of learning and growth.”
He advised the students not to be nervous: “You’ve spent your time preparing, not just for tests, but for life. Your teachers, families and communities have all helped to guide you to this point, and they will continue to support you long after this exam is over.”
Excellence
The minister implored them to “walk into the examination room knowing that you are capable, you are ready and you are more than this moment. Give of your best, stay calm, stay focused and always aim for personal excellence”. He also thanked the “dedicated teachers”.
“You have given tirelessly of your time, talent and energy, sparing no effort to prepare our students for this moment in time. Your commitment to their development has not gone unnoticed and we are deeply grateful for the care and professionalism you bring to your calling every single day.”
Parents and guardians were applauded by Blackman for their “unwavering love, patience, and encouragement. You have been your children’s first teachers and your continued support will remain essential throughout their school lives”.
The ministry has been seeking to transform the educational system in an effort to replace the BSSEE, but to date there has been no word on when the new system will be implemented.
(MB)
