I am cross-posting this with permission.  Hope it appeals to someone!

Sarah

The Primary Mathematics Challenge is a national competition consisting of a test with interesting, mathematical problems (mostly multiple choice) aimed at the top 60% of 9-11 year olds, although anyone aged 11 or under on 31 August 2010 can enter. I'd say it is suitable for children who enjoy maths and problem-solving and get bored being tested on whether they can "do" the basics.

There is more information and past papers on the Mathematical Association' s website here.   Every child taking part will get a certificate, and Gold, Silver and Bronze certificates will be awarded to those who do particularly well.

Last year, the competition was opened to home-educated children for the first time and the 32 home-educated children aged 7-11 who took part did very well compared to their schooled peers! It would be great to see even more entries this year.

Home-educators cannot enter children directly through the Mathematical Association so if you would like to enter a home educated child, please join www.groups.yahoo.com/groups/PMC-Home-Ed where there is information about how to enter.