As a parent, you need to understand how to choose the best grammar schools in the UK for your child since they will spend 5+ years there, and there are 164 in England. Selecting the best grammar schools in the UK isn’t as easy as just applying.
The choice becomes even more critical when you realise that your child’s 11 Plus test scores will determine their preferences. This post will assist you when selecting the best grammar schools in the UK for your child.
Examine Local Schools
Find out what schools are available in your region before looking into your child’s choices. This includes state comprehensive schools since it’s essential to know your options.
Ask elder friends and neighbours where their children went to school and what they thought of the education they got, particularly the quality of instruction. Knowing what schools other kids in your region attend helps you make an informed choice.
If you reside in a big grammar school district, you may have many options. If you live outside a grammar school district, your options may be restricted, and boarding may be a possibility.
Travel time, costs, etc., may rapidly become ‘issues’ if not factored in advance.
Read our article on the benefits of tuition to help your child prepare for the Grammar School entry exams.
Consider a Bursary for Your Child
Many parents do not consider applying to fee-paying independent schools, although others do. Also, if your child excels in art, theatre, sports, or music, private schools may be an option. Some schools provide extracurricular scholarships.
Review Each School
After making a large list of prospective schools, make a small list. Quality should be on your shortlist. The greatest method to judge a school is to read evaluations from current and past students, parents, and teachers.
Start with the school’s own webpage. Who are they? Are there activities and facilities? Have they won any awards? The school’s self-perception is vital.
Look for unbiased evaluations of the best grammar schools in the UK on sites like The Good Schools Guide and School Guide. These sites typically visit the schools in person, thus the evaluations are usually first-hand accounts.
You should also read each school’s OFSTED report for further information. It’s easy to make presumptions about a school, but looking at their data gives a far better picture.
Check out this video about understanding the league tables of the best grammar schools in the UK.
Secondary school league tables are equally essential, particularly if your child has several options. The position of a school in a league table typically reflects the quality of its teaching. Check the school’s SEN policy if your child has special needs.
11 Plus forums are another excellent source of information about grammar schools.
Check Each School’s Admissions Policy
Most institutions accept students based on their 11 Plus scores. Entry requirements typically include a face-to-face interview and a school report from the pupil’s present school.
It’s critical to understand each school’s admissions policy to evaluate your child’s chances of acceptance. We also recommend contacting the school’s admissions secretary for additional information.
Visit the Schools on Your Shortlist
It’s one thing to read internet evaluations, but another to visit the school. Most institutions provide guided tours to prospective parents and students. These visits allow you to view the school grounds, meet current students, teachers, and sometimes the headmaster. The best Grammar schools in the UK often have frequent open days for parents and potential students to meet teachers.
Visiting a grammar school provides you with an idea of how a normal school day goes and gives you a sense of the area.
Talk to your child about options.
It’s possible that your child has no preference for one school over another at first, but the more you discuss your choices, the more you’ll be able to evaluate which school is the greatest match for them. Some topics to discuss with your child include:
- Services and activities available
- The school grounds’ location
- First impressions of school
- Distance from house to school
- Comments about the teachers and students
- Academic skills of your kid
- Ease of socialisation
When discussing the choices with your child, attempt to discover their preferences. Initially, keep your views to yourself, so you don’t sway them. Concurring too early may make your child more determined to cling to their choice. After a few days, ask your child again what they think and ask if you may express your views.
Sort Your Favorite Schools
After discussing all possibilities, rate your child’s preferred schools. It’s vital to have a backup in case your child’s first pick isn’t available. Try not to put too much pressure on your child to do well in their 11 Plus examinations.
For further information or direction, please do not hesitate to contact us.
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