SGS Invites your comments
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They can't do that: any sort of charging is forbidden from the admissions process by the Admissions Code. A couple of schools in Hertfordshire were criticized by an adjudicator for requesting 3 first class stamps for replies with the SIF.Plum wrote:I agree with the other posts that taking away parental choice in the way of a pre-test will upset and alienate many parents. If this is being considered because of the cost of testing, perhaps a small fee would be better.
I was just thinking about the independent schools who charge a fee to sit an exam.-
runningmum
- Posts: 77
- Joined: Fri Jan 09, 2009 1:27 pm
The later the better
I think it would be a mistake to bow to pressure from the LEA and move the Sutton grammar test forward. It is supposed to be an 11+ test. In September only a very small proportion of the boys will have reached 11 and it will be almost a year before they start at the school if they are successful. Hence, the test taken at this early stage is unlikely to be reflective of their ability or potential for a grammar school education, particularly if they are one of the youngest children in the year group. By moving it to September, you are simply making it slightly more convenient for administrative purposes but still will be unable to predict the likelihood of gaining a place.
As most parents of children taking the test will have 6 choices on their forms, it will not have a significant bearing on their selections. Knowing the result may well have some bearing on the selections of parents in Surrey county council areas, who have only 3 choices, but even they will risking one of their chances, unless their child scores incredibly highly.
Interestingly, the Tiffin schools are moving to a later test next year in January and although this may affect Xmas holiday plans, at least they will be testing more children when they have actually reached 11 and will be testing them closer to the point of entry to the schools.
As most parents of children taking the test will have 6 choices on their forms, it will not have a significant bearing on their selections. Knowing the result may well have some bearing on the selections of parents in Surrey county council areas, who have only 3 choices, but even they will risking one of their chances, unless their child scores incredibly highly.
Interestingly, the Tiffin schools are moving to a later test next year in January and although this may affect Xmas holiday plans, at least they will be testing more children when they have actually reached 11 and will be testing them closer to the point of entry to the schools.
