Common Entrance stress

[witheredandmithered]

Hi, is anyone else getting stressed about the demands of Common Entrance 11+ exam? Am trying to keep a sense of perspective but am finding it hard. Any advice on how to keep daughter motivated and my sanity?

Yes, easy, send her to a non-selective secondary school.

there is a very useful forum - something like '11+ exams forum' (or do a search on here which should bring up a link). they have an active section on common entrance exams.

Hi, icancancan. Thnak you for your helpful comment. This is the first time I have posted anything on mumsnet and obviously was hoping for some sort of encouragement, understanding or support. The reply from juliemacc took my breath away a little; one obviously needs a thick skin to join the world of online chat!Thanks again.

Really?

Witheredandmithered - honestly didnt intend to piss you off, it was meant as a joke as I live in a County that doesn't have 11+ and with a DD (yr5) who has palpitations when i even mention practicing spellings; The mere thought of an entrance exam would send us both loopy. Good luck, honestly, sorry I cant give you any helpful advice but hope you are not still sticking pins in a voodoo doll called Juliemacc.

withered,

I used to teach in a prep school, and I would like to encourage you.

First, it is very difficult to get 10 year old girls to understand any pressure, and everyone is in the same boat.

Second, the pass mark for selective schools is probably in the region of 55 - 60% for the English, Maths and Science papers. If they don't seem to be doing well on practice papers, it is probably OK.

Third, there are non-selective schools that will give your daughter a personalised education.

Fourth, it is better now that when they get to GCSE and A-level stage when they become ultra laid back and block you out.