The phased introduction of the Revised Primary Curriculum for Northern Ireland began in September 2007.

Grammar School Entrance Exams
Following the abolition of the 11+ examination a number of grammar schools have indicated that they will proceed with academic selection tests from November 2009.

 The alternative that will be implemented in a number of local, leading grammar schools will demand that children complete 3 separate tests, conducted in nominated and participating grammar schools. The examination papers will be designed and managed by Association for Quality Education (AQE).  The dates for the launch of the alternative assessment process have been confirmed:

• Test 1: November 14th 2009

• Test 2: November 28th 2009

• Test 3: December 5th 2009

These tests will be based on components of the current primary school curriculum and will focus on English and Mathematics.

With the imminent change to the testing procedure and the unfamiliarity of the process and the venue that the child will attend to complete the test, many parents have enquired about the opportunity to provide a ‘Helping Hand’, to prepare their child and build confidence and esteem.

Helping Hand Tutoring is an established tutoring agency that has over 400 qualified tutors operating throughout Northern Ireland. All primary school tutors are primary school trained and have experience in teaching the current curriculum. Further to this all tutors have undergone full qualification checks and vetting as part of our registration process. Tutoring services are typically provided on a one-to-one basis and tutors travel to the child’s home or nominated place of study. Tutoring is delivered at a pace that suits the individual child and following initial assessment, the programme delivered will be bespoke to your child’s ability in the key elements of the curriculum.

If you are a parent and you want to ensure that your child is prepared to participate in the newly devised assessment tests then ring 02891 464459 (office) or  07786314726 (mobile) to discuss how our service is designed to support your child and you.