Understand the complex exam system, support your teenager to thrive and navigate the decisions that shape life after GCSEs.
Your journey through exams and post-16 education, with confidence, starts here...
This feels high-stakes and you don't want to get it wrong...
As children move through the later years of secondary school, the decisions you face begin to change.
The focus shifts from choosing schools and navigating transitions to supporting your child through exams and helping them think about what comes next.
These years can feel particularly high-stakes. GCSE results matter, and the choices your child makes about sixth form, college or apprenticeships can shape the next phase of their life.
But like every stage of the school journey, these moments become much easier to navigate when you understand how the system works.
The School Compass Framework
Understand the system
Navigate the system
Your child THRIVES in the system
Navigating the school system isn’t about following someone else. There is no perfect route. There isn't one 'right' school. Every family, every child and every school community is different.
School Compass isn't a map or a sat nav. It is something much more empowering: a compass.
A set of ideas, tools and insights to help you understand the system, navigate key decisions and support your child with confidence.
Where are you on your journey?
Age 13–14 | Years 8–9
Choosing Exam Options
GCSE and Qualifications Toolkit
Age 15–16 | Years 10–11
Thriving Through Exams
Exam Support Programme
Age 15–16 | Years 10–11
Choosing Post-16 Education
Post-16 Decisions Toolkit
Age 16–17 | Year 11–12 transition
Starting Post-16
Post-16 Transition Programme
About
Hi, I'm Joe - since becoming a dad I have been on a mission to help parents navigate the school system with confidence.
I have been a teacher, school leader and education consultant for more than 15 years. I have won awards for my contribution to education, I am a published author and have given evidence at the Education Select Committee in the House of Commons.
I'm also a dad to two young boys.
Just like you, my partner (who's also a teacher) and I care deeply about our children's education.
However, as insiders, we know how to navigate, and thrive in the school system, without spending wasted hours searching for information or being swayed by the opinions of our friends.
I want to share these insights with you too. That is why I set up School Compass.
