The latest picture is given by this year's annual report of the chief inspector of schools which says "almost all" secondary schools set or band pupils by ability.
Barbara Band, vice-president of the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals, said the report showed the importance of "guiding children to the right reading".
According to an interim report from Sir Michael, a revaluation based on prices in April 2005 would push 18% of homes up one band and another 1% by two or more bands.