27th January 2010 9:00
By Blue Tutors
In an article on the BBC website, parents claim that the only choice for your children, if you want them to attend a good Grammar school, is to arrange a private tutor. Three families in Buckinghamshire were asked about the tutors they found, and why they felt the need for home tuition.
Each of the three families have children who are close to leaving primary school, and choosing which school to attend thereafter. The parents see a good grammar school as a vital step towards a good university place, and this means taking the 11 Plus exam to secure entrance.
There was a feeling of disappointment that there was such competition for places at a top school, but ultimately the parents felt that they had no choice but to arrange for a tutor, because verbal and non-verbal reasoning, and problem solving (important aspects of the 11 Plus exam) are not taught in school. While other children are receiving tuition, you have to find a tutor for your children simply to give them the same start as everyone else.
The children involved were concerned about their extra lessons. One girl said that time outside of school should really be spent playing and having fun. Another student felt that it was unfair to those who couldn’t afford a tutor, a sentiment shared by many parents.