I didn't turn 18 until the February AFTER I finished year 12. This didn't disadvantage me in any way, shape or form. I wasn't exactly a socialite so it didn't bother me at all that others were out drinking and partying - I was happier at home with my nose in a book. For all that, I was dux of my year, and pretty bored through most of my early years of schooling. If I'd been kept back things would have been extremely painful for all concerned.

You need to look at where she's at NOW rather than what she may be wanting to do in 12-13 years time. If she's ready for school next year, then send her.

I suspect people are keeping kids back the extra year with private schools so that they're not out an extra year of school fees of their child needs to repeat. But not that long ago I was reading an article that said the "trend" was reversing - that parents were finding it more affordable to put their children in school when they are turning 5 (as opposed to 6 like this school is pushing) because it's cheaper than paying for another year of childcare.

BW