selective school exams - Oz vs UK

[koalalou]

Does anyone know if the Australian selective state schools exam (NSW) is similar to the UK 11+ exam?

We are currently living in the UK but planning to return to Australia in a couple of years. Considering the selective state schools exam for DD soon after we arrive back in Oz but not sure what preparation - if any - she should do. Came across some Bonds 11+ papers in WHSmiths today and am wondering if these might be useful in helping her to prepare?

No selective schools where we are living now so no advice available regarding how to prepare or if she is likely to pass, just thinking it might be worth her having a go as she seems to be doing quite well at school and it won't hurt to try.

[Bubbaluv]

You could contact the state education board and ask them?

[koalalou]

hi, thanks - sorry have been away on holiday - will give that a go .

[sunnydelight]

The NSW Board of Studies are generally pretty helpful with enquiries (at least in my experience). I'm guessing you are an Aussie as you mention returning so your DD will be eligible. I know kids here who came from the UK and got into selective schools, they were definitely "top of the class" types but didn't seem to find the exam too stressful. I don't know what area you are thinking of but North Shore Hornsby girls seems to be the most difficult to get into as due to it's location a lot of families tutor hard all through primary as it's probably at least as good as a lot of the nearby expensive privates, obviously without the fees! A friend of mine actually pulled her daughter out of a primary school in the area as nobody would ever do playdates or accept birthday party invites as they were totally scheduled with Kumon maths etc. I can ask a friend's DD who sat it last year what was involved if you like. She got a selective place, but didn't get Hornsby.

[LoremIpsum]

I don't know what the 11+ is like so can't offer a comparison, But the NSW Ed dept puts sample tests online.

www.schools.nsw.edu.au/learning/k-6assessments/shsplacement/ss_sampletest.php

[koalalou]

Hi, thanks. Yes we are dual nationality Aussie-Brits, originally from the UK but spent several years in Oz before heading overseas. Soon to return. Looking at Northern Beaches Secondary College (Manly High) which I don't think (hope) is one of the hardest to get into. As far as I know tutoring is not too prevalent at the local schools, but DD1 did only spend one year in an Oz school before we left.

Will contact NSW BoS to find out if the exams are similar. I have had a vague look at the online info but am saving the sample tests until nearer the time iykwim. I have just bought the Bonds 11+ sample tests (9-10yrs) as a means of gentle introduction. Luckily DD quite enjoys doing these - when she feels like it - though she seems to rush them. I am not too bothered though as she still has quite a bit of time to practice.