More children got three As at A-level in the country’s fee-paying schools than in the entire population of children at comprehensives."

[AubergineKenobi]

Says Toby Young in today's Telegraph:

Article

Does anyone know what percent of A-levels are taken by children in fee-paying schools?

When I read these threads, it's with fascination as it would never occur to me to worry about Alevel exam boards. I wonder what I would do if any of my DC wanted to go to Oxbridge as so much which makes you eligible seems to depend on being 'in the know' about exam/ interview what grade tuba you have to be, how to appear interesting to academics etc etc

I was state educated and my school was unremarkable. I got three A's at Alevel in 1992 but the advice on choosing university when filling out UCAS form ( pre results) was that I was not 'university material' and maybe should try the polytechnics.

I think this is where state schools can fall down - it's like you are one of many and if your parents are pushy and clued up then you will get the chances you need, if your parents are in academia or well connected you will get good advice.

If you are from an ordinary background, having the confidence and the backing to even apply to Oxbridge is dependent on your teachers and many do not have the time or experience to help you.

norman you are completely correct.

When I grew up we were very ordinary...but my Mother was a bit of aone off and had Big Plans for her daughter. It's no coincidence that among my peers I was the only one to get to university. I certainly wsn't the brightest.

But now I have moved up the social strata and I move among the middle classes, their approach to their DC's education makes my Mum's Big Plans look like child's play. The education of these children is a veritable camaign. And whilst I don't have their energy or single mindedness I do cherry pick those things that I think will absolutley help my DC along the way and open as many doors as possible. Knowledge is power.

It utterly infuriates me when I see DC making poor choices through no fault of their own or their parents. They simply don't have the knowledge and there often seems to be an entirely false premise laid out for them.

One of the great things about MN is the information sharing. Anyone with access to a PC can come here and find out so much that will benefit their DC.
If for example norman your DC were thinking of Oxbridge, you come here and ask for tips to boost their chances and you'd be inundated with help, I tink.