We are in the process of looking at secondary schools with James who takes his GCSEs next summer and then starts at sixth form college in Cambridge in September.
There are two schools in particular we are visiting. One is
regarded as the creme-de-la-creme, and many parents of these kids wouldn’t dream of sending them to the other one down the road which is regarded as a poor relation.
However, that was where David went and did very, very well. In fact, he had the required grades to get into the top notch school, but chose not to. And James could have a place there if he wished as he is predicted varying A-C grades, and pupils need 5 Bs for admission.
However, James is concerned about reports of pressure which pupils there are said to be placed under to perform. I believe that high expectations should naturally be encouraged. But where does that end and extreme pressure take over for the sake of league table rankings?
I must admit I am disappointed with James’ opinion. I was hoping he would go to this highly acclaimed centre of excellence. But he doesn’t feel comfortable about it. He’s heard too many negative reports from other pupils who struggled there. Also, he’s not a natural academic and has many other interests in his life. Like David, he feels he can do just as well at the other school.
I have no choice but to respect his wishes. I want him to be happy and enjoy school life, wherever he chooses to go. And I think he will well. In fact, I know so because I have every faith in him as a rounded person.
To console me, James said: "Don’t worry mum. I’m confident and will always be able to talk myself into a job…"
I think that should be included on a league table somewhere too, don’t you?
I think that he will do better in his choice of school because he will feel more comfortable there. This will mean he can concentrate on his studies more because he isn’t worrying about anything.
Cherry Pie, I know you are right. I can see how great this top of the league table school is in Cambridge and wished I had had the opportunity to go somewhere as brilliant as a child. I went to a crap school which I always hated. I always wanted to learn, learn, learn, and couldn’t study the subjects I wanted. I’m making up for it now though. Learning is a lifelong achievement for me.
I remember I wanted my son to go to a top notch private school near us but he refused to go to a school where you had to wear a tie! He was a very good student and I knew he would do well wherever he went and so he did.
I’m sure James will do well in the school of his choice.
Yes, JMB, at least that is what I am hoping. At least he has the courage of his convictions to choose where he feel is right for him.
Stand your ground, Ellee.
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