Thanks to everyone who has replied so far
Having not been a prolific poster, perhaps I should have made it clear that we're now nearing the end of our 11+ tutoring journey? I was getting curious - perhaps very nervous.
First-timer - Many apologies, I didn't mean to close-down the discussion to only those who had no professional expertise in education - your observation about the candidates you know, is fascinating
mclm - I can certainly identify with your fears regarding whether you'd let your DD's down with the DIY route - I feel the same. All the children DD2 knows, who are taking the 11+, have a tutor , some have tutors. It doesn't make her feel pressure, as far as her perceptions of her ability to pass but it does shake
my confidence.
minesatea
I'm so pleased to hear that you've never regretted your decision, and for us too, a professional tutor was never an option financially. In addition to that, we'd had a shocking experience with a teacher and felt we could only trust ourselves to do the tutoring necessary - a holistic approach, if you like lol!
Both DD's are worriers DD2 slightly less than DD1 and I know that like your DD, spending money on a tutor would have added pressure in her eyes - she's said as much, bless her! She only wanted me to do it, for a whole raft of reasons and the flexibility we've had as a result of our chosen route, has certainly worked for us. Sometimes we've started to learn something in maths and then we find we go off on a tangent, with something slightly related but still equally important - sometimes even more pivotal.
Fran17
The myths can really dent your confidence and belief in yourself, can't they?
Thanks to everyone for the luck
I hope that I haven't given the impression that I'm knocking the tutor route, or a combination of tutor and parent support? Everyone does what suits their DC's and personal circumstances
This site is truly amazing and long may it continue to provide a wealth of support and information for every parent and child doing the 11+ or entrance exams
I'd welcome thoughts from anyone on this
I'll also let you know whether my DIY method has proved successful
At the end of the day, even if DD2 doesn't gain a place, what we've learned together, will enhance both our lives and she's told me numerous times that she feels it's brought us much closer together and strengthened our bond
Who could ask for more?