Selective vs Non-selective

[Aigle]

Wondering how selective, "selective" is ?! Is it purely/mainly on academics or do different schools have a whole host of criteria, and select based on "fit"? DS is Y4 state and so far performing averagely, but is not particularly being pushed at school or at home. We think that with a bit more pushing, structure and routine, he could raise his levels higher. Does the fact that he's not yet (or naturally) academically driven suggest that a non-selective school would be better anyway? Always assumed he would be academically orientated (into books, natural writer, keen on languages etc) but it does not appear to be the case so far. Any advice welcome, really have become a bit clueless on direction.

[Teachercreature]

It's usually academic criteria yep, but can vary.

Tricky to say with your DS as I do see what you mean. Hmm - my gut feeling would be if he hasn't seemed inclined to get massively into academia he might not enjoy a selective. But, how about see how he does over the next few months and then decide? See if you can inspire him to be a bit more interested/challenged? Puzzles, problems, that sort of thing? (You could also try a verbal/non verbal test, available from Amazon, to see what his potential level is?)

[diabolo]

Most "selective" independents have differing % required in their entrance exams or Common Entrance tests.

The very top ones might require an average pass mark of around 80%, for the less academically selective ones it might be 60% or so.

For top grammar schools the pass rate required might be 95% or even higher depending on the school.

Can you ask his current school for their opinion after trying some Bond papers ?

[Aigle]

Thank you. I will be asking his current school next month. Which tests / Bonds should we be trying given that he is currently Y4, do you mean the mock common entrance papers?

[Teachercreature]

They do them by age - here you go: www.amazon.co.uk/Verbal-Reasoning-Assessment-Papers-years/dp/1408517132/ref=pd_bxgy_b_text_y?tag=mumsnet&ascsubtag=mnforum-21

and : www.amazon.co.uk/Non-verbal-Reasoning-Assessment-Papers-years/dp/1408517167/ref=pd_sim_b_1?tag=mumsnet&ascsubtag=mnforum-21

Might just give you an idea of his potential. I would say though that selectives definitely aren't right for some - some children rise to a challenge and love it, but others feel stressed by it and would do better somewhere non-selective where they'd be top of the class, if you see what I mean. It depends on his personality almost as much as his ability. Hope that helps!

[Aigle]

Thank you TC. I see exactly what you mean and it's really the whole point of my thread. I don't see the need for parental of child stress if we have to push against the academic grain. Of course I hope that it's not the case and that he does rise to the challenge as you say.

[Teachercreature]

Nope agree - the perfect balance for all children is feeling challenged and interested but not stressed definitely. I went to a selective secondary myself and I did enjoy it, but as a teacher I've heard parents giving mixed feedback. But I think it's great that you're thinking over options and talking to the current place etc - that's just the right approach and I'm sure you'll make the right decision. Wish you all the best with it!