Parents & Schools

Navigating the maze of information about schools is far from easy. How do you choose a school? What is the best age to switch to a senior school - 11 or 13? Is boarding the right choice for your child? In past issues of Attain, we have tackled a huge range of subjects and themes for parents. This section offers a selection of articles, grouped into topics.

Choosing Schools

Asking the Rights Questions

Choosing the right girls' senior school poses myriad questions for prospective parents. Clarissa Farr, High Mistress of St Paul's Girls' School, outlines where parents should focus their attention. More...

Transition

Moving to Senior School

How much freedom of choice should you give your child in the process of moving to senior school? Dr Helen Wright, Headmistress of St Mary's School, Calne, offers some advice for parents. More...

Boarding

Boarding in the 21st Century

British boarding schools are probably the best in the world. Hilary Moriarty of the Boarding Schools' Association explains how much has changed and how much of value has been retained. More...

Values & Beliefs

Happy Prep School Days!

Making sure your child is happy is the key to a successful education. Jonathan Wansey, Headmaster of Crosfields Preparatory School, outlines the importance of happy prep school days. More...

Childhood

Preparation for Life

Julie Robinson looks at the role a prep school plays in the teaching of social values and considers the strength of these skills and how they can engender a positive role in society for pupils. More...

Issues

Are you a difficult parent?!

There is a thin line between being a concerned parent - and a difficult one. How should you complain to a school and ensure the best possible outcome? Julie Robinson offers some advice. More...

Learning

Destination: Pre-U!

The decision to move away from A Level and adopt the Pre-U qualification was not an easy one but, as Emma McKendrick, the Headmistress of Downe House reveals, it is already proving the right choice for her school. More...

Sport

Teaching Enjoyment

The primary purpose of all sports and games is enjoyment. Michael McKaughan, Headmaster of Denmead School, highlights the amazing range of opportunities available to children at all IAPS schools. More...

Beyond the Classroom

Prep School Cadets

CCF is a hugely popular activity at senior schools across the country. Normally, prep school pupils are too young to get involved, but Carl Lander of St Aubyn's School explains how he set up a thriving Cadet Corps. More...