Written question asked by John Bercow (Conservative) on Wednesday, 15 February 2006, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 27 February 2006. It was answered by Baroness Smith of Malvern (Labour) on Monday, 27 February 2006 on behalf of the Department for Education and Skills.

Setting

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what independent research she has evaluated on best practice in setting by ability in schools; and if she will make a statement.

Answer: My Department has commissioned an independent research project on pupil grouping which consists of an extended literature review, which was published on 27 October 2005, and a fieldwork phase, which is expected to report within the next few months. The fieldwork is investigating grouping practices in a range of schools across England and will provide a basis for any further advice and guidance we may decide to issue to schools on setting.

Secondary information