Starting the journey
Is your child happy? It may sound a silly question but we should start here as this is the point from which everything else flows. Helen Skrine, the former Headmistress of Belmont Prep in Surrey, summed up happiness in children as follows: 'Healthy and happy children are those who eat and sleep well. They are loved unconditionally, allowed to make mistakes and are learning to be independent in their thoughts and actions. These children are becoming emotionally intelligent and resilient and have the self-knowledge and compassion to form strong relationships. They have high levels of self-esteem and independence, and understand that their self-worth is not bound up in their academic, sporting or artistic achievements but more importantly in meaningful human interactions and their ability to make a contribution and to voice an opinion. Moreover, in the words of the poet Rudyard Kipling, healthy and happy children ...can meet with Triumph and Disaster; And treat those two imposters just the same.' 2
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This is exactly the sort of book which parents should be looking at to cut through the marketing glitz of independent school websites and prospectuses, and to focus in on the key issues around finding the right school for their child. Matthew's book offers a wealth of practical advice from someone who really knows the sector, giving parents all the right questions to ask of themselves and the schools they are visiting. If you're looking for a guide to tell you what the best school is, then this book isn't for you. If you want guidance and support to find the best school for your child, then look no further.
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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.
