Tips for parents - surviving 11+ results this week

So the new format Bucks 11+ test results are due this Friday.  I have spoken with many parents who are nervously awaiting the outcome. Here are a few tips to make this time as pain free as possible for all.

On results day, be sensitive towards other families. If Friday brings good news, you and your child may wish to shout it from the rooftops. However be aware there will be disappointed parents and children at the school gate, who will appreciate discretion and sensitivity.

Nurture your child’s self-esteem at this time. Let them know that whatever they achieved, you are proud of the effort they made.

Consider carefully before launching an appeal. Listen to and act upon the advice of your primary school Headteacher and take time to consider carefully the right way forward. Scraping in and then struggling to keep up with the fast academic pace may not be the right environment for your child. All parents have a choice. Be careful to ensure it is a considered one that is relevant and appropriate for your child. School decisions should never be made through emotion, pressure from other parents or concern for what others may think. Also remember siblings are different and often require different school environments to nurture their individual potential.

The 11+ is not about pass or fail. It is designed to assess potential for a child to thrive at grammar school and as such requires a set level of attainment to be eligible for a place. Don’t speak badly of any secondary school incase your child is allocated a place there. A proactive parent who engages with the school to support their child’s education must reassure their child that they will be successful and happy wherever they go to school.

For an informal chat about how our friendly consultants might help you to choose the right school for your child, give us a call on 01865 522066 or visit our website   www.independenteducationconsultants.co.uk