A NEW survey shows the old 11+ exam that decided whether pupils went to grammar school has left its mark on those who failed it.

The test was phased out in Scotland as the comprehensive system was introduced, although it still exists in parts of England and Northern Ireland.

The study found 20% of those who took the exam and failed said it had put them off learning, sometimes for the rest of their lives.

A spokesman for the Educational Institute of Scotland teaching union said: "Fortunately, education has moved on considerably and Scotland's comprehensive education system continues to offer all pupils an equal opportunity to develop their potential, both academically and in terms of wider achievement."