Rebalancing Access to Grammar Schools
The Pass Masters: Rebalancing Access to Grammar Schools
In an era when social mobility is increasingly stagnant, hope has emerged for aspiring young students and their families. 'The Pass Masters', an innovative educational initiative, is on a mission to level the playing field for access to Grammar schools by removing barriers to preparation for the crucial 11-plus exam.
Gaining entry to Grammar schools has been perceived as a privilege reserved for those who can afford private tuition. Data shows that the vast majority of successful candidates for Grammar schools undergo some form of tuition, putting those from less affluent backgrounds at a significant disadvantage. This educational disparity has contributed to a persistent gap in social mobility, perpetuating a cycle where opportunities remain inaccessible to many.
Recognising this inequity, The Pass Masters have devised a groundbreaking program designed to make high-quality 11-plus preparation accessible to all. Their comprehensive course covers every aspect of the 11-plus exam, from verbal and non-verbal reasoning to mathematics and English. Importantly, the programme is offered at a fraction of the cost of traditional private tutoring, opening doors for families who previously could not afford such support.
"The current system is inherently unfair," explains Neil Arnould, Director of The Pass Masters. "Children from wealthier families have a clear advantage because they can afford extensive tutoring. We wanted to create a solution that empowers all students, regardless of their socio-economic background, to succeed in the 11-plus exam."
The Pass Masters' approach is multifaceted. It includes interactive online lessons, practice exams, and personalised feedback, all tailored to help students build the skills and confidence needed to excel. The programme also emphasises gradual learning, allowing children to meet the demands of the 11-plus exam over time, reducing stress and enhancing understanding.
Neil has worked in comprehensive secondary schools in schools for twenty years, helping students achieve great results year-on-year for his classes and championing opportunities for all students to progress. Neil’s daughter passed the 11-plus in 2023 and is going to her local Grammar school in September.
The Pass Masters are not just preparing students for an exam; they are championing a broader movement towards fairness and equal opportunity in education. As their programme gains traction, there is hope that more children will have the opportunity to attend Grammar schools, based on merit rather than means.
For families across Kent, The Pass Masters offer a lifeline, ensuring that the doors to academic success are open to all, not just a privileged few. In doing so, they are not only helping children pass an exam but also paving the way for a more equitable and just society
