CHALK & CHAT
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Chalk & Chat’s editor Kate Hilpern welcomes you to the new year issue of The Good Schools Guide’s online parenting magazine.
STAND OUT SCHOOLS FOR... UNCONVENTIONAL HEADTEACHERS
From the headteacher that ‘teaches children to use a shotgun’ to ‘our first head with a pierced ear’, meet the school leaders that break the mould.
HEAD TO HEAD
Is setting better than teaching children in mixed ability classes? Two headteachers on different sides of the fence argue their case.
FAMILY FRIENDLY WORKING
What’s it like working for one of Britain’s most family friendly employers? We go behind the scenes at Deloitte to find out.
HOW TO ... TALK TO YOUR CHILD ABOUT SEX AND RELATIONSHIPS
Start early, don’t rely on the school system and normalise discussions about sex. Read our top tips on teaching youngsters about the birds and the bees.
TRAVEL: OFF THE BEATEN TRACK
There are still corners of the globe where you can find a patch to yourselves, even in the summer holidays. Try them before everyone else does.
LET’S MOVE TO DORCHESTER
Our regular low down on schooling in a particular area of the UK, this time in Dorchester. The ultimate guide to housing and education in this beautiful part of Dorset.
THE PARENTS WHO TRY TO CHOOSE THEIR CHILDREN’S FRIENDS
Many parents are guilty of trying to steer their children into certain friendships and who can blame them? But you may pay a heavy price.
EDUCATIONAL DILEMMA
Our educational agony aunt Susan Hamlyn advises a family wanting to move overseas for two years. How can they avoid jeopardising their children’s education?
THE 10 BEST EDUCATIONAL APPS
With more children owning smartphones or iPads (including some 14,000 British toddlers), it’s no wonder digital learning games are helping children get ahead.
BOOK CORNER
Emma Lee-Potter presents her regular roundup of the best new books for kids to read in 2019, with writers ranging from Jacqueline Wilson to Rachel Bright.
SIBLINGS AND SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS
All parents want to spread themselves equally among their children, but when one has special needs, it isn’t always that easy, says Bernadette John.
ALTERNATIVES TO TUTORING
What do you do if your child’s academics need added oomph but for financial, ideological or logistical reasons, a tutor isn’t an option? Charlotte Phillips investigates.
MOVING FROM OVERSEAS
Everything you need to know about moving school-aged children to the UK. By Janette Wallis, who has been there, done that and bought the t-shirt.
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