THE Government's emphasis on examination results and league tables was criticised last Saturday by the headmaster of Kelly College.
During his founder's day address Mark Steed described modern education as an 'examination treadmill'.
He claimed the current exam culture in Britain's schools could restrict the development of pupils' skills in other areas such as sport, music, art and drama.
'Examinations are in danger of preventing the provision of a good education,' he said.
'GCSE course work, modular A-levels and now AS-levels are condemning our children to an examination treadmill. I am privileged to be running a school that still values what goes on outside the classroom.
'The challenge for Kelly is that we believe that schooling is about more than the examination hall.'
Mr Steed said the college would continue to provide a rounded education, with as much emphasis on extra-curricular achievement as on academic performance.
'There is much more to success in life than academic qualifications,' he said.
'The most important factors are personal skills and values: the ability to communicate, to socialise, and to be an interesting and thoughtful person.
'Spiritual and moral values provide the framework for discernment and give a balanced perspective on life.
'A-levels and degrees get interviews, but personal skills still get you the job. This is where Kelleians rise to the top.'
Mr Steed paid tribute to the college's many sporting successes of the past year.
This included praise for the swimming team who won promotion in the National Speedo League, and in particular Elaine Reyes, who has been selected for the Commonwealth Games in Manchester.