THE EDITOR, Sir:
DR STEPHEN Vasciannie his commentary entitled "schools and the CXC, 2002" mentioned that there is a big performance gap between the traditional high schools and the upgraded high schools.
I think that one of the major reasons for this is the work experience programme commonly found in these upgraded schools. In this programme fifth formers are sent away for three weeks to work in a practical area. This would be fine except that classes still go on. I did my work experience in March of my fifth form year. I missed out on a lot and of course it was hard to catch up.
I agree that work experience is important but not more important than passing the CXC exams. If work experience is going to be a part of a school's curriculum then school should be suspended for the seniors for the three weeks and everyone sent to work at the same time.
If this is not done then the student should at least be given a choice since most students' practical subjects have nothing to do with what they want to be in the future.
I am, etc.,
NATALEE BAILEY
E-mail: natybailey@hotmail.com
Via Go-Jamaica
