11 Plus Exams Forum

My dd has been fortunate enough to have been offered our first choice grammar and a scholarship at an independent school. Obviously we are delighted, but the choice is proving very difficult! This is because my daughter is a very talented singer/actress.

So here's our situation:
Academically, the grammar school is perfect, although there is very little opportunity in performing arts.

The independent school is less favourable academically, but the performing arts opportunities are incredible.

This has left us with a huge dilemma that is the cause of many tears in our house. Can anyone offer any objective advice please?

Has she any ambitions to pursue singing or acting as a career?

Go for the grammar - there is plenty of opportunity to do performing arts outside school.

Yes she loves performing arts, and will probably go in this direction with her career

To be honest, it also boils down to finances and only you know where they stand.

You may be able to get more feedback/advice if you explain which Indie it is...you say that it isn't as favourable academically so I assume it isn't KEHS or EHS as obviously both of these schools are academically great?

the trouble with acting and singing as a career is that there is an element of of luck to doing very well out of it and even the best sometimes can't make a living .....

I agree with the point about the doing drama out of school - a kid who was at private school with one of my DCs did v well in films but that came from taking part in local dramatic club.

My dd is a talented musician and we have been told she could take it further than just a hobby. We decided though she can keep up with music out of school and a good education is more valuable at this point.

same here my ds acts. his grammar very supportive on castings etc..but not too much in the way of provision in school. however best of both great education and acting outside of school. winner really. good luck.

I would go indie if its the arts for a career.....indies specialise in that over state schools in general

Totally agree with hermanmunster, newbiemum, indigop, continue with the performing arts out of school, and have an excellent education as a fall back plan.