The very well-known Cecil Day Lewis once wrote a poem called
the `Unexploded Bomb’. The poem described how two neighbours found an
unexploded bomb – half in the one garden and half in the other. The neighbours
were not really on speaking terms.
They argued about the responsibility for the bomb but
neither would give way. The common feeling was that the bomb acted as a guard
between the neighbours. It was suggested to them that they should call the bomb
squad to have the bomb removed.
The neighbours did not want anyone to enter their gardens
and dig up the bomb.
The unexploded bomb stayed where it was.
The approach of the eleven plus is not a journey with a bomb
ticking away at the end. The Eleven Plus Examination has the potential to
instigate a gentle meander through learning and sharing activities. There are
books and papers to work through –peacefully and with dignity. There is time
for parents and children to share `quality time’.
Naturally there will be flare-ups about work, time, family relationships,
school, friends, swimming, skate boards, clothes and answers to eleven plus
questions – but a family’s strength, in theory, should prevail.
