League tables
Whilst on face value, league tables look like they offer parents a convenient shortcut when choosing a school, the reality is somewhat different. In this chapter, Matthew shines a light on the inherent problems with league tables. Far from providing the transparency and accountability parents crave, they are a false friend.
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What if there was a way to bypass this long tortuous process of choosing a school? What if someone very kindly compiled a list of all the schools in an area and put them in order of academic performance? After all, academic performance is purportedly the thing parents are most interested in – it's the pathway to university and beyond. It spells success for life, doesn't it? Parents could quickly cast their eye down this magical list and see what's on offer and instantly decide to go for the one at the very top. After all, why hang around the third division when you could be pushing for the premier league, eh?
And so that's what happened. And this idea grew and grew to become a regular annual occurrence across several newspapers – even the Government got in on the idea on the basis of that Whitehall favourite: accountability. And despite the opposition to this...
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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.
Alastair Speers, Headmaster, Sandroyd School
Continue reading?
Subscribe to the Attain Independent Schools' Guide 2025 as an web eBook, audiobook or have the 106-page print edition posted directly to you.
I'm delighted to see this well-informed guide for parents navigating the bewildering yet crucial task of picking 'the right school'. Matthew's sensible and practical advice draws from his extensive experience with independent schools and as a parent. This is a very helpful read for parents of school age (or younger) children.
Julie Robinson, CEO, Independent Schools Council
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Disclaimer: Independent education has a wide range of views and the use of quotations does not imply that these contributors share the same views as the author. The views and opinions of the author may also not necessarily be shared by all schools mentioned in this book. The author and publishers do not warrant, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, that the contents are error-free and shall not be liable for any loss, however arising, as a result of the information contained in this book.
Disclaimer: Independent education has a wide range of views and the use of quotations does not imply that these contributors share the same views as the author. The views and opinions of the author may also not necessarily be shared by all schools mentioned in this book. The author and publishers do not warrant, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, that the contents are error-free and shall not be liable for any loss, however arising, as a result of the information contained in this book.
