When my son passed his 11 plus exam, it was a moment of immense pride and relief. But it was a moment that came at a cost. We had to invest in private tutoring, a financial burden we shouldered to ensure his success. As I witnessed this system up close, it became painfully clear that many families, particularly those with less financial means, are not afforded this same opportunity. This glaring inequity in access to quality education is something that shouldn't be happening in 21st-century England.

The 11 plus exam is more than just a test; it's a significant stepping stone for children academically, preparing them for secondary education whether it’s in a state school or a grammar school. In fact, the skills tested in the 11 plus often align closely with foundational Maths and a grade 4/5 in English Language GCSEs, as my other son discovered when I homeschool him using the same materials.

The call is not just for more grammar schools, but also for an inclusive educational journey leading to the 11 plus exam beginning in primary schools. This means incorporating the exam preparation into the curriculum, thus giving every child, regardless of background, a fair chance to decide whether they wish to take the exam when the time comes.

We propose that the government allocate resources to build more grammar schools across England and update the primary school curriculum to include preparation for the 11 plus. This move would not only foster equality but would level the playing field for all children. By making the decision to take the exam a voluntary one, we empower children and respect their agency in charting their own educational pathways.

Education is the key to breaking the cycle of inequality, and it is crucial that we offer that key to every child, not just those whose parents can afford it. Join me in calling for the government to build more grammar schools in England and adapt primary education to include every child's potential for success.

Sign this petition to ensure our children's futures are not determined by financial standing but by their potential and dedication towards learning.