Results

The Kent test results are out. Here in our little corner of the world selective schooling, and the choices that surround it, are part of everyday life. I know there are readers  for whom this isn't the case, so please bear with us. The debate around selective schooling is fascinating, but not for today's blog.

Today, at East Kent Tutors, we are celebrating the success of our students...100% passed the test! Their success is richly deserved for all the hard work and commitment they put in. We are very proud of them.

But we are mindful that there are other children out there for whom the results have not been so positive. So what next for them? Well, the appeal process is one option; schools will advise on the way forward. I have personally been involved in a number of successful appeals. Be prepared to 'big up' your child; remember they are more than just a set of numbers on a test paper. Think of all they can offer their new school...sporting prowess, music, art, responsible attitude -maybe they have been house captain, or Head Boy/Girl. This process will help 'sell' your child, but even more importantly it will focus your (and their) mind on their general skills and abilities, and boost their confidence. My biggest concern over selective education is the impact on the10 year olds who don't pass. Make sure your child knows his/her worth is not dependent on the outcome of one brief moment in their life.

A wise man once described life as a journey. You can speed off down the motorway and get to your destination quickly and efficiently. Or you can take the B roads - it may take longer but you get there in the end, and maybe take in a few sights on the way.

I was a B road person. They didn't have selective schooling in my area, and I did reasonably well at school but my results weren't dazzling. I wasn't particularly motivated as a youngster, and my teachers weren't too bothered either. I ended up taking my degree as a mature student. Yes, it was a bit tougher, studying whilst raising a family, but it taught me that the door  to achievement is never really closed, even if sometimes it feels a bit stiff and creaky.

So to those headed off on that motorway, drive carefully and never get complacent. To those who are rethinking their plans, the journey will be fun and get you where you need to go, even if it isn't the one you thought you would take. And to every one of you - enjoy the ride!