HUDDERSFIELD MP Barry Sheerman today called on the Government to reassess the levels of testing and inspecting in the education system.

The MP, who chairs the education skills select committee, made his plea at the Assessment and Qualifications Alliance conference.

Mr Sheerman said: "Testing and inspections played a key role helping to drive up standards when the Labour Government came to power, but we now need to evaluate role of exams and testing.

"Many teachers and students are overburdened with testing and inspections.

"We need to make sure that we get the balance right between measuring attainment and allowing teachers and students to get on with their job.

"I am pleased that the Government is moving towards lighter touch inspections, but they need to go further to lighten the burden on teachers and students."

Mr Sheerman also criticised the dominance of the core curriculum in schools.

He said: "We need give teachers more space to teach and work with students in the classroom".