Involving your child
For most parents, they will be approaching the process of choosing a school from the angle of needing to shortlist. But where to begin? You may have heard things from friends about particular schools. Indeed, your child may also have strong views about a future school, especially when it comes to the transition to senior as they may have friends planning on going to a particular school. At a young age, parents are very much having to make a decision in their child's best interests but as they get older, this responsibility shifts; it is therefore unwise not to listen very carefully to your child's views and opinions. The consequences of sending a child to a school they don't wish to attend goes far beyond not succeeding academically. Indeed, your child will often know whether or not it is the right place for her or him by instinct.
We have already established the obvious mantra that happy children succeed so it is counter- productive for parents to pursue an ambition to send a child to a...
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I've known Matthew for many years; he offers clear, sensible, and unbiased advice, drawn from his extensive knowledge of the sector, and I'm delighted to see his expertise translated into this thoughtful and practical guide for parents. This book is invaluable for those navigating the often overwhelming process of choosing an independent school, helping parents focus on what truly matters, rather than rankings, hype, or marketing spin. I wholeheartedly recommend it.
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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.