Sale Grammar School - is it too late?

[Robotwars]

We went for a look round Sale Grammar School last week and dd (y5) is now interested in going there after previously showing no interest at all.

Are we mad to think she has a shot at this despite no previous work/preparation being done?

Her last report (Feb) gave her 4a for English comprehension and 4b for maths. Apparently she has done level 5 tests this year, but we have yet to be given the report/levels.

Are these levels high enough

I'm not interested in hothousing her, but realize she will need some practice to familiarize herself with tests and to gain some speed and confidence. However, having had a look on the internet, I'm somewhat overwhelmed with the volume of material available and haven't a clue where to start.

I'm thinking that an hour a week of practice between now and then would be good, but what to practice?? I understand that the CEM tests aren't available as practice papers, so what is a good substitute.

I would be very grateful for any ideas of whether and how to approach this.

TIA

I would have thought her school could advise you? Sorry I can be of no help at all !!

Yes, you would be forgiven for thinking that, but the school don't offer advice either way as far as I'm aware. Not helpful.

I've posted in education also, but thanks for commenting.

I was under the impression that Trafford primaries helped with the exams etc. I know in Manchester it depends on the school

Nothing done within school time afaik. There are 5/6 optional afterschool sessions looking at NVR but no feedback given as to how your child had done. It's frowned on to ask about it too .

Experience of only one school though.

HI Tia,

My DD passed an exam with not loads of prep, I think that there are tutors who could point you in the right direction without loads of pressure. It is the difference of entering an exam with no prep or some isn't it, having seen and done some practise papers. There are a lot of private tutors on are on this website why not ring them and ask the question local.mumsnet.com/manchester-trafford/private-tutors

My DD (also Y5) wants to go to Alty Girls or Sale Grammar. I haven't even started her on past papers, and will not get a tutor.
We'll go through some past papers from WHSmith or Amazon in August.

Thanks for your replies. I'm not going to get a tutor. I've ordered the CEM 11+ practice papers and we're going to sit down and work through them.

I guess I was after in indication of whether she's bright enough or not, but I'll only really know if I get her to do the papers.

inmysparetime can I ask what levels your dd is getting at school? It would be good to compare with someone in the same position. I wonder also if you have experience of this with an older child?

I have no idea what level DD is on at school, she's finding the top group stuff quite easy though, and loves both books and maths. DS is Y7, but wanted to go to AonM (he's very sporty) so we didn't bother with any 11+ prep, and he's managing well in their top set, with level 7 or 8 work already (he got level 6 in KS2 SATS).
Hope that helps.

Thanks, that was quite nosy wasn't it, sorry. Just trying to get a feel for whether she's out of her depth or not. School don't give much away at all.

We're out of catchment for AoM by not very much, but unlikely to change. Am happy with SH as a back up though. It was our first choice up till last Thursday after all .

Hi Ladies,this is my first post,I need help,be gentle :) Looking for advice on prep school transition to secondary for my Daughter who is 11. She is in year 7 at Terra Nova near Holmes Chapel but we live in Didsbury,as of 6 weeks ago. I know she will need to do the 13+ if we stay private but wondered if anybody had advice on which schools are worth looking at for a sporty girl who gets good grades.I have also applied to Parrs Wood as I'v heard its a good school..any advice much appreciated. Feeling a bit lonely since the move and would be good to meet new people with kids around her age :) cheers,Stefie

Manchester High? Tricky to get a place at this stage although you know this! Worth asking around at Cheadle Hulme, Trafford grammars, Poynton High? Where are you thinking of if 13+?

Hello Noteventhebestdrummer! Im thinking of contacting Withington Girls School and Manchester High with a view to 13+ .My D is a good all round,in the top,or A set "as they call it" for her subjects,but has a tendency towards being easily led :.That's why I lean towards private as I assume (shoot me now) that there will be less "horsing about" :) seriously one wiff of distraction (a boy,a feather) she is away with the fairies!

Go see Parrswood - I know tons of people who could afford private who have chosen it. Barlow also takes some non RC children. There is every activity known to child or parent in Didsbury so join up for whatever you/ she is interested in and you'll be fine. It's an amazing place to live. Pm me if you want info

Look at Stockport grammar too - heard good things

Thanks so much for the advice ladies. We are seriously considering Parrs wood and Manchester high after visiting. Happy new year and Thanks again x

Hello, Just to update,looked at the Barlow after you suggested,fell in love with it! I applied,appealed and won her place. It really is the best school for her and My Fathers side of the family is full of priests and nuns.we live practically next door so its kind of perfect. I been nervous about switching her from private to state (Parrs woods good but HUGE!) but The Barlow seems such a good ,on the up and up little school. I dont know any mums and she doesn't know a soul there! Daunting but intend to try to get involved over the summer. Unfortunately I Have torn all the cartilage in my hip in a snowboarding accident, I'm waiting for an op on crutches for 4 months!!! So If anyone fancies popping round for coffee and cake Ill be here all week...!! :)