Manamadurai: Government high school headmasters in Tamil Nadu have expressed concern over the learning abilities of students entering Class 6 after studying in English-medium sections in government primary and middle schools.

English-medium education was introduced in government primary, middle, high and higher secondary schools several years ago, attracting many parents who preferred English-medium education for their children.

In the Manamadurai block, English-medium sections are being run in 13 government primary and middle schools. Headmasters of government high schools said many students joining Class 6 after studying in these sections struggle with both English and Tamil.

They said students often score low marks when assessed at the time of admission, indicating gaps in their learning abilities.

Headmasters urged the School Education Department to provide special attention and additional academic support to students studying in English-medium sections at the primary and middle-school levels.

A Block Education Officer said some students from Classes 3 and 4 move from private schools to government schools because their families are unable to afford the fees or for other reasons. Some of these students face learning difficulties by the time they reach Class 6.

Special measures are being taken to provide additional academic support and improve their learning outcomes, the official said.