I wanted to get people's thoughts on the topic of location v score as determining factors for entry to grammar schools. Should grammar schools select on the basis of score alone or should they put all those who have passed onto a list and offer place in geographical area?

We live in Tunbridge Wells, Kent where, even though we live less than 2 miles from the school, we wouldn't get in irrespective of score. It seems to me that the pass rate is too low if the numbers passing are so high that the catchment area is reduced to 1.7 miles. But this is all new to me so I thought I'd canvass views to get a balanced opinion.
Thanks

It seems unfair to me as it is selection by postcode rather than by passing the exam. They operate a fairer system for places at Altrincham Grammar School for Boys in Manchester. Two boys I taught passed out of the catchment area by gaining 20 marks more than the pass mark for those living closer. A third boy exceeded the pass mark by 18 marks and was put on a waiting list.

Maybe each authority is different but in Buckinghamshire you either qualify with a good enough score or not.

Once that is established it seems that those that fail to get their school of choice find that it is down to distance from the school, even if you achieve a maximum score.

I too live in Tunbridge Wells - is it TWGGS you're interested in? You may have already found an answer to this, but basically, your daughter would first have to pass the exam. If she does not qualify for a place on distance (because she is more than 1.7 miles from the school) then there is still an option to get in using a governor's place - I think around 14 places are offered to those in the area that get the highest marks in 11+ (ie near to 420 usually).

If your daughter is due to get a high score (I think over 400) you may instead look to apply to TOGs which allocates only on a score basis. Otherwise there is Weald. I know these are further, but not that far and great schools.

Balancing between location and score is a difficult one. I think that so long as the children pass the exam, location is more important. Some of the grammar schools in kent go by score only and children can travel up to 2 hours each way a day to get there. This I believe changes the nature of the school and removes the "community spirit". I can however, sympathise with your concern. With a great school like TWGGS, you're always going to get people moving close to the school to make sure that they get it.

I hope your daughter gets a place that she's happy with. Good luck with the tests this week!