MSPs have voted this week against the mandatory testing of primary one schools pupils.

The practice, which has been widely criticised by parents and teaching unions was opposed by all opposition parties delivering a defeat on the SNP government, who insisted even after defeat that the practice should continue.

Scottish Conservative policy lead for education Yvonne McNeilly said:

"Once again we have a classic example of the SNP paying no attention to a clear vote. Parliament have voted against testing for our wee primary one pupils.

"All the evidence from the professionals strongly suggest that there is no requirement to test in p1. It is hugely unpopular and lacking in any plain common senses.

"Despite the vote deputy first minister John Swinney is not prepared to drop  the issue, showing blatant disregard for the will of Parliament, expert advice and common sense." 

Scottish Conservative shadow education secretary Liz Smith said:

“We firmly believe that there has to be a different approach in p1 compared to what happens further on in school.

“We remain fully supportive of testing in schools among older children. Standardised tests at p4, p7 and s3 should be a key part of educational development and the monitoring of schools’ overall progress.

“We believe that the standards must reflect the best educational interests of each pupil at every age in their school career.”