Education officials urge confidence, calm as pupils face 11-plus

As nearly 3 000 primary school pupils across Barbados sit the Barbados Secondary Schools’ Entrance Examination (BSSEE) on Tuesday, education officials urged them to approach the test with confidence, calm, and courage.

Chief Education Officer Dr Ramona Archer-Bradshaw said a total of 2 981 students are registered for this year’s sitting, including 16 students granted permission to write the exam early at age ten.

The Ministry of Education has also received a number of special requests.

“Thirty-six students have requested exemptions from writing the examination,” Dr Archer-Bradshaw disclosed, adding that a further 116 students have requested deferrals — the majority of whom are in Class 3 and deemed not yet adequately prepared. The remainder are from Class 4.

Additionally, 128 students have applied for special accommodations, including support such as scribes, readers, large-print materials, and extended time. While still substantial, this represents a notable decline compared to 183 requests in 2024 and 180 in 2023.

“We as a ministry are fully prepared for the administration of this year’s examination and extend our best wishes to all students participating in the BSSEE 2025,” she said.

Minister of Educational Transformation Senator Chad Blackman offered a message of reassurance and encouragement to the nation’s primary school-leavers.

“To our nation’s Class 4 students, as some 2 981 of you prepare to sit the Barbados Secondary School Entrance Examination tomorrow, I want you to know how proud we all are of each and every one of you,” Blackman said in a recorded message. “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 reminded students that they have been preparing not only for tests, but for life.

“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.”

The minister also acknowledged the collective efforts behind students’ success: “To our dedicated teachers, we thank you… To the parents and guardians, thank you for your unwavering love, patience, and encouragement. Your belief in their potential certainly will lay the foundation for their confidence and success.”

President of the Barbados Union of Teachers (BUT), Rudy Lovell, also expressed solidarity with students and educators alike.

“On behalf of the Barbados Union of Teachers, I extend warmest wishes to all the students sitting the Barbados Secondary School Entrance Examination, widely known as the 11-plus,” he said. “This moment represents another chapter in these students’ academic journey, and we commend them for the dedication, focus, and resilience they have shown along the way.”

Lovell applauded the nation’s teachers for their efforts in guiding students through preparation. “This exam is just one chapter in these students’ journey of growth and discovery. You should approach it with confidence, courage, and a positive spirit.”

He concluded: “Students, believe in your abilities, stay focused, and most importantly, believe in yourself. Best of luck.”

Despite repeated declarations that the examination would be abolished as part of an educational transformation programme, there was no indication from officials that this would be the last sitting of the exam.

On Monday, one social media commenter wryly remarked: “The seventh annual last Common Entrance [exam] is tomorrow.”

sheriabrathwaite@barbadostoday.bb