Like Janice I sat the 11 plus in 1964. I remember writing a long essay about a tortoise I found at the back of our house - all made up. Enjoyed that part of it but hated, and always have hated, maths. Must have done reasonably well enough to pass. When I went to Grammar School I found it difficult to adjust, plus I had an overbearing father who thought education was the be all and end all of life. He set too many high expectations and, although I did very well from 11- 15, I rebelled in the later years. I think he pretty much cut me off after that. The ironic thing is, (and something which he never knew) is I ended up working on developing education policy in the Dept for Education !
As a result of my experience, I’ve never put that sort of pressure on my own children. I think it borders on abuse when children are pushed through the system by over aspirational parents. I also believe the channeling of all older pupils to go down the university route (when many could clearly be doing something more appropriate post -18) is another big mistake. And the unnecessary anxiety created in getting into a university is also appalling.
I have very strong views about education and believe it still needs a good shake up. Viv.
As a result of my experience, I’ve never put that sort of pressure on my own children. I think it borders on abuse when children are pushed through the system by over aspirational parents. I also believe the channeling of all older pupils to go down the university route (when many could clearly be doing something more appropriate post -18) is another big mistake. And the unnecessary anxiety created in getting into a university is also appalling.
I have very strong views about education and believe it still needs a good shake up. Viv.