Private Schools Are Buying Prep Schools.
Why are private schools buying prep schools? Explore what mergers mean for school choice, 11 Plus entry, fees and younger children’s learning.
Explore the archive
Exams & school choices
Explore the choices behind school admissions, 7 Plus, 11 Plus and GCSE preparation. These conversations consider preparation, confidence and finding the right fit for a child. Older policy and exam episodes retain their original dates.
14 episodes
When Should You Start 11 Plus Preparation?
When should 11 Plus preparation begin? Compare Year 4 and Year 5 approaches, GL and CSSE demands, confidence and building strong foundations.
Explore episode : When Should You Start 11 Plus Preparation?
GCSE Mock Results: What To Do Next
What should you do after GCSE mock results? Explore feedback, common lost marks, revision habits and a practical plan for progress without panic.
Is the 11 Plus Even Worth It in 2026?
Is the 11 Plus worth it for 2026 entry? Explore grammar school fit, GL and CSSE exams, reading, vocabulary and preparation without burnout.
Is Private School Worth It? High Costs, Small Classes and the REAL ROI
Is private school worth the cost? Explore fees, smaller classes, school networks, family priorities and alternatives to independent education.
Explore episode : Is Private School Worth It? High Costs, Small Classes and the REAL ROI
The Truth About Private School Entry: What You Need to Know
Explore one family’s private school admissions journey: 11 Plus preparation, mocks, interviews, school choice and keeping pressure manageable.
Explore episode : The Truth About Private School Entry: What You Need to Know
The Truth About VAT and Private Schools
A 2024 discussion of proposed VAT on private school fees, family choices and whether independent education justifies its cost.
The 11 Plus – Understanding the Current Landscape
A 2023 discussion of the changing 11 Plus: exam boards, digital assessments, competition, school choice and which children the route suits.
Explore episode : The 11 Plus – Understanding the Current Landscape
GCSEs and A-Levels 2022: How Valuable Are They?
A 2022 discussion of the value of GCSEs and A-levels, school experiences, disappointing results, alternative routes and preparing for exams.
Explore episode : GCSEs and A-Levels 2022: How Valuable Are They?
Should Your Child Take the 11+?
Should your child take the 11 Plus? Explore grammar school choice, exam preparation, catchment areas and why the route may not suit every child.
GCSEs and A-Levels 2022: What’s Changing?
Looking back at GCSE and A-level changes for 2022, including advance information, assessment adjustments, fairness and exam pressure.
Motivation (From ‘1s’ to ‘7s’)
Margaret shares her daughter’s GCSE journey, exploring motivation, rebuilding confidence, encouragement and the transition into sixth form.
