Curriculum
If there is one aspect which is often overlooked when choosing schools – or just taken for granted – it's a school's curriculum. Parents might assume that the curriculum at all independent schools is the same – why would it be different? In fact, curricula is one of the areas which most defines the individuality of independent schools and gives them distinctiveness and identity. You can tell a lot about a school by precisely what it teaches – and what it does not.
Let's start with prep schools. The whole purpose of a prep school curriculum is to foster a love of learning. It covers all the basics of the National Curriculum but, by being independent, it has the freedom to go further and look beyond the basic topics. Good prep schools develop intellectual curiosity in pupils and this is helped by having subject specialist teachers. During these formative years, children begin to learn the skills of independent study and enquiry. They learn to disseminate information quickly, decode problems and put forward logical and well-developed arguments. And they also start to develop the discipline of using time properly and efficiently. They learn how to learn.
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This is a terrific resource for parents navigating the ever-evolving world of independent education. It offers both wisdom and practical advice in a conversational yet evidence-based tone, helping families find the right fit for their child's educational journey. Matthew's deep understanding of the sector shines through, making this guide an accessible and useful reference for anyone interested in learning more about independent schooling.
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Matthew's new and approachable parent guide to choosing a school is spot on. Naturally, the first thing I looked at was his commentary about Heads. Sage, sensible and savvy advice abounds, as does the caveats and cautions about over glossy marketing spin that schools pump out. The book is really well written, entirely from the perspective of supporting parents. It's also a gentle swipe at some of the nonsense schools promote and how to look past it. Parents, also take heed – there are really good pointers about how to be a great parent in your relationship with the school. Unglossed, direct and delivered with humour, Matthew's book helps make things easier for everyone, and in that way, your child has a better chance of being happy and thriving. Remember, it's a two-way relationship, you're not buying a washing machine.
