Coaching for 11+

[countrylady]

Our dd is in Year 5 and doing well in all subjects, but is very sensitive to any hint of criticism or failure. Most parents of children in the top group are paying for coaching now for grammar school exams in Nov. However, our ds was devastated 3 years ago when he failed the 11+. Are the grammar schools very academic to the detriment of sports, art and music which she loves?

Ours is, countrylady. 120 in each year - one football team and one netball team per year, training for them only. Some music but very limited and not much fun. Artistic parents not particularly satisfied with the Art dept. Very few extra-curricular activities all round compared with the county schools.

Discipline a bit bonkers - threat of detentions for untucked shirts, suspensions for 3 such offences (not sure if it actually happens mind you), kids forced outside every break except in the very worst weather.

Stunning academic results though and generally good behaviour.