EDUCATION EDITION
IT STARTS HERE Creating an environment for pupils to thrive both emotionally and socially is key for St Mary’s (above) and St Faith’s (below)
There are plenty of other sources of information, too. “Speak to other parents, particularly those in your local community, as they can offer first-hand insights into the schools you’re considering,” instructs Rosie White. “Additionally, review official data such as exam results, Ofsted reports and ISI inspections. These can offer a snapshot of the school’s performance, ethos and overall environment.” While many parents will pore over exam results, Dr Paddy Wallace stresses that these will give you only part of the story, not a complete narrative. He suggests using results as a starting point – bearing in mind that fantastic grades are essentially a given in the local area. “If your son or daughter is an academic high-flyer and you want them to be surrounded by other academic high-flyers, you can use the data to explore this, but it doesn’t necessarily tell you that they’ll get the right education for them,” he highlights. While you will quickly unearth a whole wealth of independent information online – including inspection reports and assorted reviews (from Google to The Good Schools Guide ) – schools stress that these resources, though useful, simply won’t provide you the complete picture that visiting a school can provide. “Nothing will ever beat going to see the school in person,” confirms Claire Ziwa. Other schools agree. “It’s important to get a feel for a school, so we would always encourage a visit,” remarks Claire Anderson, admissions registrar at St Faith’s. Looking around a school provides the invaluable opportunity to hear from current pupils – usually senior school-aged, though sometimes younger. The insights
social settings? Understanding your child’s unique profile will help you determine what type of school environment will best support their development.” Being crystal clear about your family’s lifestyle and the compromises you’re realistically willing to make is also essential. Both parents are increasingly working full time – often for long hours – so the school’s location and ability to offer after-school care also matter. “You have to think about how you can get to school in the first place, and the transport available,” stresses Claire Anderson at St Faith’s, which offers after-school activities and late stay – both hugely appreciated by busy families. If there’s still a gap in the arrangements, it’s also worth asking around to see whether other parents can step into the breach with lift shares, she suggests. These must-haves can help, as can some armchair detective work. School websites these days aren’t just packed with facts, but are also a lively read and increasingly child-friendly. The Perse School now offers interactive (and award- winning) prospectuses, for example.
SPARKING CURIOSITY With fun and creativity, the interactive aspects at The Perse School (left) encourage hands-on learning
CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK OCTOBER 2024 61
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