Aptitude Test Upsets Parents at Government College

By JEREMY CALVERT,
education reporter
Melbourne Herald Sun, Friday, September 5, 2003

A BUNFIGHT has erupted over an aptitude test for prospective Year 7 students at a college.

Brauer College, of Warmambool, has asked all students applying to attend the school to sit a weekend test to identify those most suitable for an accelerated learning program.

But some local parents are angered by the tests.

They have branded them elitist and suggested results may be used to deny poor performers a place at the school if it was over-enrolled.

Principal Michael Cusick defended the tests yesterday, saying they assisted the school to select students who could move at their own speed.

Students will be required to sit two tests to assess their verbal and non-verbal skills. The top 20 per cent will be eligible for the accelerated learning program.

Mr Cusick said the school would not exclude any prospective students. 'We are a government school, everybody can come," he said.