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A few months back I wrote predicting that UK universities would be using SATs within 5 years. Little did I think the process would start so soon. In today's Times I read that Bristol has begun its experiments already. I am pleased with my prescience but alarmed at its accuracy and this is why. I have worked in a few schools where UK and American Entry worked side by side. Those who took SATs were offered university places as early as November but most had places by Feb. Students then downed tools and the rest of the year was a bit of a joke for them. SATs are not about education they are about cramming and selection. As soon as SATs come in a whole industry will grow up in months - books how to pass SATs, SAT tutorial lessons on Saturdays by private colleges etc. etc. And this will all be our fault. Any A level reform must satisfy university admissions tutors and be part of the formative education process at the same time. Teachers, parents and students just have to get used to the idea that selection is part of life. If we carry on in the current mode of ever increasing A level grades we will put ourselves out of jobs - I have seen the future - and its not nice - and it marginalizes teachers even more. We also need to realise that grades and standards are not the same - grades can stay the same and standards rise. The recent shenanigans to adjust grades down was probably right - just incompetent. Although if you fancy some extra tuition cash you might disagree and think about specialising in 'how to pass your SATs' early and use some market skimming pricing tactics.