Applying for Schools

Practical advice for selecting schools and navigating the application process across different educational stages. Topics include viewing schools, entrance exams, special needs provision and understanding Ofsted reports.

A Music Place at a State Secondary School

How to secure a music place at a selective state secondary school outside your catchment area.

A Performing Arts Place at a State Secondary School

Performing arts places at state secondary schools can get your gifted child into a better school while they get specialist tuition in their chosen subject.

All About Ofsted Reports

How to find and read Ofsted school inspection reports to help choose the right school for your child.

Applying for Special Needs Education

Getting your child assessed for special needs education involves your local authority and specialists who work to identify exactly what support they need.

Applying to Private School: Special Needs Child

How to find the right private school for a child with special educational needs, from mainstream options to specialist schools.

Autism Spectrum: Getting a School Place in Your Area

Getting your autistic child into the right school involves navigating statements, support workers, and mainstream versus specialist options.

Be Prepared with a Second Choice School

Having a backup school choice protects you if your first preference doesn't have a place available.

Common Entrance Examination

UK independent schools use Common Entrance Exams to assess pupils before GCSE, covering core subjects plus optional humanities and languages.

Getting an Academic Place at a State Secondary School

Help your child qualify for an academic place at a state secondary school through entrance exams and exceptional performance.

How the Recession Is Affecting School Places

More parents are sending kids to state schools during the recession, leaving fewer places for families who always planned to use them.

How to Choose the Right School for Your Child

Work through a practical checklist and visit multiple schools in your area to find the best fit for your child.

Should Your Child's Friends Influence Your School Choice?

How much should your child's friendships influence which secondary school you choose for them.

Single Sex or Mixed Schools?

Weighing up whether single-sex or mixed schools work better for your child and what research actually shows about academic performance.

The Application Process Explained

Walk through how school applications work, from picking schools to submitting your form, without the confusing jargon.

Theatre Schools

Theatre schools teach performing arts like drama, dance and music alongside regular school subjects, with admission based on auditions and interviews.

What to Look for When Viewing a School

Help your child find the right school by knowing what to look for during a visit and how to evaluate the best fit.