complicated procedures involved in admission to
them. Find an expert rather than a gifted amateur.
5. Enjoy the process
You will potentially be visiting some of the finest
schools in the world and giving your child untold
opportunities and experiences – in fact you may
actually wish you were going in their place!
2. Don’t be a slave
to League Tables
League Tables, inspections reports and
reputation only tell a very small part of
the story and are often flawed. Only by
visiting a school will you be able to see
whether or not it measures up academi-
cally, if its facilities appeal to your child
and the staff and pupils are warm and
engaging. Just like buying a house: you
either like the décor and feel of a house
as a future home, or you don’t – regard-
less of how wonderful the market thinks
it is or isn’t.
3. Time & Preparation
The world of independent education
is as competitive as any walk of life and
many schools fill their places several
years in advance of entry. Therefore, give
yourself plenty of time – time to choose
the right school, time to visit, time
for your child to be prepared for the
entrance exams and for the transition to
boarding school. Parents often underesti-
mate how much time should be given to
these things but at least one or two years
in advance is the best time to begin the
process. If you are still undecided about
whether to send your child to school in
the UK, go through the process – you do
not have to commit to anything at the
exploratory stages.
4. Getting help
There are many people who can advise
you about UK independent schools,
and it is worth seeking guidance – this
is, after all, one of the most important
decisions you will make for your child.
However, it is important to choose a con-
sultant who really knows the full range
of British independent schools and the
Helping you
find the right UK school for your child
BVS Education offers impartial, expert school selection services and advice
on all aspects of independent school education including higher education
guidance and tuition.
For independent advice on independent education
from experts who have taught both in leading UK
independent schools and in Bermuda call:
+44 (0)28 9188 9606
or email [email protected]
www.bvs-education.co.uk
ORGANISERS OF
www.bermudaparent.bm
37