11+ Examinations
1 December 2010
Article Abstract:
The Daily Telegraph reported a story at the end of November about the parents of a 10 year old girl, both doctors, who came to physical blows while discussing applications for their daughter’s secondary school place. This time last year, I wrote about the importance of parental support while a son or daughter goes through the Spring Term of Year 6, a term riddled with 11+ examinations, interviews, and acceptance (or rejection) letters.
Independent Schools Council Census
4 June 2010
Article Abstract:
Each year, the Independent Schools Council conducts a census of all of its 1,260 schools in the UK and the Republic of Ireland (the actual membership number is slightly higher, but schools outside the UK and Irish Republic do not complete it). Its aim is to provide you with a picture of how the sector has changed over the past year.
Food for the Soul: Music, Art and Drama in the Independent Sector
4 May 2010
Article Abstract:
The best schools foster the development of the whole child: academic achievement has its place, but in the busy and sometimes unforgiving 21st Century world we inhabit, there is also an important place for the social, spiritual (in its broadest sense), physical and creative. It is the fostering of creativity which taps into talent previously hidden, or potential as yet unrealised.
Common Entrance: A gateway to Independent education
30 March 2010
Article Abstract:
For over a hundred years students have been sitting down in January and June to take the 13+ Common Entrance exam to gain entrance to their chosen senior school at 13. Nowadays while most students move to their secondary schools at 11 many of the old boy’s schools have maintained a strong emphasis on a 13+ intake. Around 80% of pupils in independent prep schools take the Common Entrance exam set by the Independent Schools Examinations Board on behalf of the sector.
Independent Sector Alternative Curricula for 14-16 year olds
30 March 2010
Article Abstract:
There are alternatives to the GCSE examination at 16, offering different something different, from the format of the exam, to the philosophy behind the curriculum