GCSEs 2018 (15) The Reckoning

Have to admit I’m already way out of my depth with advising DD. Both DH and I left school at 15 and didn’t stay on for 6th form. He did an apprenticeship and I started working full time as didn’t do well in my exams and due to family circumstances didn’t get the chance to go to College.

DD has asked about her cousins experience of applying to Oxford Uni.. if she does go down that route, I’ll be here asking for advice as not sure what advice school will give

Third - I think I know what school your DS2 is at one of the girls from DD's school moved to the associated girls school...am I right in thinking you virtually have to live within 1 mile of the school to get in. How;s DS1 feeling? Not sure what date the A Levels come out although I know they are before the GCSE's.

Thankfully got call from DD just after midnight last night to say she was safely in her room ...its hard not to worry although I know she's very sensible.

mmzz - Thats quite sad that your DS's current school doesn't make the effort with Oxbridge applications ...I have got the impression its more worried about GOV statistics than the actual children.

Those grade requirements are for 4 A-levels (Maths, Further Maths, Physics, Chemistry). The requirements for 3 A-levels are lower.

DD needs a 7 to take maths and at least grade 5 for English and 5 GCSEs at at least grade 4. Zero pressure here.

Back to Matt Haig, I deliberàtely took the book to read on holiday when I didn't want to leave my Kindle alone by the pool, knowing that we would be pretty much WiFi free for the week. I missed not being able to look something up instantly (I almost ordered an iced choc thick shake instead of a hot choc as my Norwegian is non existant) but I didn't miss my email or the need to post jolly pictures of us having fun on FB. I actually keep a detailed journal when I am travelling, for my eyes only, and I love re-reading the trivia in it. I did misskeeping an eye you lot though! I thoroughly recommend reading his latest book if you have niggling anxiety or ever feel you or your DC are being swept along by life in an uncontrollable way.

Third it sounds very sought-after! What A levels does he want to do? I know requirements for further maths can be very high, for example.
I’ve lost track of what DS needs but I know it’s 6.5 or above to do four subjects (usually the fourth is further maths but he’s wondering about taking philosophy).

mmzz it's a state school. The Y7-Y11 bit is partially selective (25% of places on academic aptitude, 10% of places on music aptitude, the rest for siblings and children living close to the school). The school is oversubscribed (approx 6 applicants per place).

Sticker I'm a big fan of Matt Haig. I re-read Reasons to stay alive last week when I ran out of books on my kindle and had limited wifi. He's also good value on twitter.

I'm saving his new one for the plane home.

mmzz I’d walk away from the school, to be honest. It doesn’t sound supportive at all. Apart from the fact that they have acted really weirdly already, it sounds like they were almost pleased the previous student gave up. I might be a bit annoyed with DS’s current school (another outstanding comprehensive) over the non-induction day, but they had at least one student starting a maths degree at Oxford last year. They would encourage any student with a chance, send them on summer schools, arrange visits and have an Oxbridge applications liaison teacher.

Just skimming through the thread. Seen lots of references to NCS. Couldn't interest DS in this. Read too many poor reviews. He's not really doing anything much at the moment.

trimmer Regarding Sitges - I went there a few years ago and loved it. There were very few British people there, no rowdy groups, it's a popular gay resort. Very easy to get to Barcelona.

stickerrocks being intrigued by the book title you quoted had a quick look on Amazon to read the description and reviews. Looks like you have struck gold with exactly how I’m feeling this morning. I’ve just ordered it

He needs:
A* in Further Maths
8 in Maths
7 in Physics & Chemistry
5 in English
Average point score of 7.5 in best 8 subjects.

I think he will probably get these, but the grade boundaries (other than Maths & English) are such an unknown.

Matt Haig not Hain. I will now stop re-reading what I have already posted.

Leapt, not leap. I do wish auto correct didn't exist & we had an edit button.

Thethird I could record your conversation & play it back on a loop. I still come out in a sweat thinking about trying to give instructions by text on how to put on a load of washing a few weeks ago when I was at work.

I'm a great believer in the chunky footwear & summer clothes look Sost so wear your battle scars with pride. Not so keen on the needles though. I'm currently reading "Notes on a Nervous Planet" by Matt Hain. Two key phrases which leap out on me a few minutes ago, which I know you already live by:

1. Don't try to be like someone who already exists. Enjoy your difference.

2. Remember no one else is ever worried about what your face looks like.

Which is another reason (on top of great teaching, and excellent SEN provision) that he hopes to get the grades to continue there for sixth form.

Sostenueto it's his school orchestra. He has been waiting to join the orchestra for some time, but the standard is high (mostly Grade 8+). A couple of very talented clarinet players are leaving this summer and DS2 was invited to join, luckily just in time for the tour.

Only a year between my dds! Took 10 years to fall for first then went to doctors to ask why no monthlys to be informed your 5 months pregnant!

Hi all! Don't take no notice of my posts this morning. I was feeling low and I am glad that holidays are being enjoyed
Thanks for all best wishes from all
thirdofhername is orchestra National Youth Orchestra? And great to see DC touring with music groups brings so many memories back for me!
Went for botox injections in feet today for my dystonia. I was going to ask if they could improve my face with some but they wouldn't have enough in clinic the size of the needles ( length) brings me out in a sweat! In a week I will have a lively flat foot and be able to wear sandals for a week or two! Divers boots in temperatures of 30 degrees is not good and don't go with a skirt or dress!

Photos have appeared on twitter of day 2 of the concert tour.

• DS2 is wearing the correct clothing.
• They got a standing ovation.

mmzz your phone has a filthy mind