13+ ; Common entrance; prep schools

[dontbutme]

DS is in local state primary, top of his class, did some tutoring; didn't get into either of selective independents he sat for. Not thrilled with options open to us: non-selective secondary with few facilities. Is it a good idea to put him in one of the preps for Year 7 and 8, and retake 13+ CE? Prep I'm thinking of is very academic, will motivate him and is prepared to help him catch up in Latin, French and the things he never did in primary. Plus one has the support and input of the Prep Head. Good or bad bad bad idea?

Our experience was that it was both. I suppose they want to see if a boy has been crammed and coached like mad or are curious, quirky types.

DS had questions on his hobbies and interests, books, films what clubs he was in and if he was a monior etc. One school asked the boys to bring along an item that meant something to them to discuss.