Confused about the Bursary process

[HayleyQ]

Hi parents! I am new here. My DC just had pre-test to an Indie, we submitted Bursary application a few of weeks ago. Now, was told a home visit will take place next week. However, the pre-test results won't come out until early November. Also, DC will have a CE test in next January if DC can pass the pre-test....

I am confused about the process as DC has not been offered a place, but they like to home visit so soon? From my understanding, they won't home visit until DC gets a place? I am just curious IF DC unfortunately didn't pass pre-test(hope this won't happen), what is the point they home visit so early?Anyone can advise? Much appreciated!

Yes, very best of luck to both of you!

I don't know if it's worth adding that going through this process of applying to schools and preparing for exams can only strengthen your children's academic progress and your knowledge, as parents, of what is available, what is possible and what is being offered beyond the horizons of your current schools. Even if this attempt doesn't go the way you hope, you will inevitably be in a better position, going forward, to plan for, strategise and advise your offspring on the best routes towards their eventual careers. (Well, in theory. God knows, they're not always inclined to listen ...) Maybe you'd find yourself demanding more from their current schools, comparing subjects available, or re-assessing their extra-curricular activities? (That sounds horribly patronising but isn't meant to be. Obviously if you're already at outstanding state schools there may not be much discernible difference at an average independent school. But most people find eye-opening contrasts between the best and worst funded schools of any type - and that's bound to prompt some serious thought.)

And exam prep is exam prep - it should pay dividends in all their school exams, regardless of which school they attend.

I'll have my fingers crossed for you. And would be really pleased to hear the outcomes of your applications, even though I know you're not here for my entertainment!

AreYouThere Thank you!
Persephone Thanks so much for your kind words and encouragement !

NoToMisogny Big Hug! I have to admit it was not easy to go through the whole process, especially we don't know if it would be successful in the end.... But I guess it was worth trying!?

The home visit was ok. Just showed all the proofs we had. It took about 40 minutes, but we won't know the result until next year!

Best luck NoToMisogny and anyone who is currently going through the process (including myself)!

I know this is an old post but I'm about to go through this process. What proof is it they ask for in the visit? I have sent bank statements and mortgage and pay slips and all that malarkey already.

They won’t ask for proof - they observe …

That empty space on your wall where the wallpaper looks oddly unfaded, because you’ve hastily taken down your Rembrandt …

Conversely they may also want to check that your child is being brought up in a sufficiently stimulating household to allow them to interact well with their new schoolmates. They expect bursary applicants to be cash not-so-well off, but culturally rich.

👀

Thank you, that's really helpful. I'm really nervous as I want it so much for my DC

The anticipation is a bit stressful! But try not to worry - there won’t be anything unpleasant in the actual visit.

By this stage you should already know whether this school really wants to offer your child a place. Have faith that if it’s the right school everything will go smoothly.

I have no clue at this stage if the school wants my child. We are pre exam and everything. Who knows.