Archive

Bullied? Help, advice and support for you and your child

Virtually all children have arguments at some time, these may be verbal or result in 'fisticuffs', this is usually just part of normal childhood behaviour. It does not mean they are bullies, being bullied or will become bullies. Fall-outs often reflect frustrations or misunderstandings and children often quickly make-up and become friends again, but what happens when the spats turn to bullying? 

Can my child afford university?

£27,000 in fees, plus accommodation, living and travel costs. With such eye-watering headline costs, how can teenagers in England afford a university education? 2012 saw the first intake of undergraduates faced with tuition fees of up to £9,000 per year in England. Despite reassurances from government the knock-on effect is self-evident with applications down 6.6%. (Article published 12th February 2013)

Saving for school fees

With the financial markets in turmoil, city bonuses slashed, unemployment topping 2 million and, in some areas, more than a third of pupils failing to get a place at their first choice school, the need to plan for school fees has never been greater. We look at the all-important questions you need to ask and possible savings routes. (Article published 2nd June 2008)

School obituaries

Girls’ schools, prep schools and even the occasional boys’ or co-ed school have been closing at the rate of half-a-dozen annually for several years now. Because recession tends to affect independent schools a couple of years late, we expect such closures to continue. Is there anything parents can do to avoid being caught in a crash? (Article published 2nd June 2008)

Sussing out a nursery: on a visit

You've picked the ideal location, and chosen the type of setting, you think will be perfect for your child but how do you know if they're really up to the mark - or even what 'the mark' should be? A good nursery will actively involve your child in work and play. The really great ones make learning such fun children will be fired up, enthused and engaged. Time spent researching,  before you sign on the dotted line, is time well-spent. (Article published 31st July 2012) 

Trusts and school fees

Very few savings products or accounts can be held in Flora or Rufus's own name - in fact, only children's bank accounts, friendly society savings plans and NS&I Children's Bonus Bonds are eligible. (Article published 2nd June 2008)

Choosing a school

• Asked to leave?

  Every year more than a few children are asked to leave their fee-paying school prematurely. We’re not talking about the kids who flash their knickers on Facebook, attempt to assassinate the science teacher, or sell ‘black’ for bucks. No, invariably it’s the ones with learning difficulties or social problems, whose results may cause the school to tumble down the league tables or whose learning needs challenge the limitations of ‘run-of the mill’ teachers. (Article published 9th June 2008)

• Choosing a state grammar school

  Entry to top performing state grammar schools is more competitive than ever and forward planning is essential. Results are good; grammar schools regularly top state school league tables with results not too far adrift of those in the independent sector... but considering their selectiveness and middle class bias, some do not perform as well as many, less selective, independent schools. (Article published 12th December 2008)

• Faith / Religious schools

  There are many schools within the UK for those with faith and their dominance of published league tables has led to an unprecedented rise in demand. (Article published 2nd June 2008)

• Free schools - how do you choose?

  Is someone near you putting together a Free School? It's a very tempting prospect: a school that is created by its community,  that you can play a part in shaping, that suits you rather than the educational establishment.

• Independent schools admissions - it's not just ability to pay

  All things being equal, always have a go at the school you think is right for your child. Even those independent schools you have been told are jam-packed may have a place. Don’t restrict yourself to trying at the ‘normal’ entry periods. Dare to try mid-term and mid-academic year or even the day before term starts. If you get a no, don’t be afraid to try again.

• Starting school

  The best days of their life? Every September thousands of youngsters take the first tentative steps on an education journey that will shape their future. 'There's nothing quite like your child's first day at school, that gut-twisting feeling when your four-year-old waves you goodbye and sets off on the road to independence.' Elizabeth Grahamslaw A Parents' Guide to Primary School). (Article published 20th August 2010)

• Sussing out independent schools and horses for courses

  You've identified possible schools, now what? Every single reference book on schools indulges in advice on how to find and choose the perfect school. Lists of questions tend to make headteachers bristle but going in as a parent can be daunting. (Article published 2nd June 2008)

Curricula and exams

• 11+ and 13+ maths - what your child should know

  It was the lack of a grasp of simple probability that led expert witnesses to conclude wrongly that mothers, with more than one child who had suffered a cot death, were guilty of murder. (Article published 9th March 2009)

• Eleven plus maths - frequently asked questions

  I was taught things like ‘cross multiply’ and to multiply by 10 put a zero on the end– will these help my child? We answer your questions and explain why tricks of the trade are not always the best tools... (Article published 9th March 2009)

• Help with 11+ English - the basics

  Help and answers to frequently asked 11+ English questions provided by Katherine Hamlyn author of the best selling 11+ English; A Parent's Toolkit. (Article published 9th March 2009)

• Life skills qualifications

  An educational charity, ASDAN currently works with approximately 6000 educational centres around the globe and with learners of all ages from primary to post 16 and beyond. (Article published 17th April 2013)

• Preparing your child for the 11 plus

  The 11 plus is still used in both the state and independent sectors. While much of the country abolished the 11 plus several decades ago a few local authorities – including Buckinghamshire, Kent, Birmingham, North Yorkshire and some London boroughs – still use it for their (highly competitive) grammar school entry. (Article published 13th January 2014)

• Teach your child 11+ maths

  Children, who are supported in their studies by parents, can make great strides both in performance and a confidence. How you help your child depends on your own interests and confidence; if you enjoy maths and are fairly confident about your ability to enthuse and inspire there is no reason why you shouldn't do a bit of home tuition.  If in doubt, leave teaching maths to the professionals and make your task one of reassurance and encouragement.