For example, he said that digital technology offered vast opportunities for pupils to learn with others but these ideas were simply not filtering through to the education system where tests and examinations still focus on individual attainment.

BBC: Costly hi-tech kit lies unused in schools, says study

The unions said the tests did not give a true picture of pupils' attainment, encouraged teaching to the test and put pupils under pressure.

BBC: Head teachers complain of 'erratic' Sats marking

The PISA assessments of 15-year-olds educational attainment, published in December 2010, showed Wales falling further behind since the 2006 tests.

BBC: Urgent question: education reforms