If your child doesn't get an 11 Plus place

Thousands of capable children miss out on selective places each year, often by a mark or two. What happens next matters more than the result.

Say the important thing first

"This doesn't change what I think of you." Children remember the sentence their parent said on results day for a very long time.

Check the options

Waiting lists move. Some schools have appeal processes. Independent schools may offer places later in the year.

Keep the learning going

Everything your child gained — reading, reasoning, stamina, resilience — is real and portable. Continuing to read widely and stay confident in maths pays off in Year 6 SATs and beyond.

Watch the story they tell themselves

A child who decides "I'm not clever" after one exam carries that much further than the result itself. Name it out loud and disagree with it.