In a couple of weeks there is an assessment morning for September entry into year 3 at a local independent school. They've not given much detail but I think it's going to be very relaxed, worksheets, reading to an adult, group games etc.
The problem is that dd (6) is not at all keen. She is a confident child once she is settled somewhere but is (not unreasonably!) very unsure of new situations when she doesn't know what to expect or won't know anyone. She's saying she won't go and doesn't want me to leave her there.
We've pretty much decided against sending her to the school anyway, as we think going to give the local state junior school a go for various reasons, but we wanted her to still do the test to keep our options open as long as possible as we're not 100% sure. Plus we thought if she isn't happy at the state school we'd at least know if the private one is an option and it might be easier to transfer her (if they have a place) if she already did the test. But I don't want to put her through a traumatic experience just for the sake of it!! Do you think we should;
- not bother with the assessment and pull out because she's not keen
- phone them, say we're anticipating tears, ask if I can stay for a bit (wondering if this is not the done thing?)
- just take her, offering a treat after if necessary, see how it goes.
And do you think her lack of willingness to stay/potential tearfulness will be unusual and affect her chances of a place?