Primary School Decisions Toolkit

All of the information you need to apply to primary schools with CALM and CONFIDENCE: A toolkit you can access NOW, designed to take you through the process - step-by-step, specifically for for parents like YOU

Access the toolkit NOW

This course is perfect for YOU if:

You’re applying to secondary schools and feel overwhelmed

You’re unsure how to weigh-up the different options

You want to beyond OFSTED, League Tables and word of mouth

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Designed and Delivered by JOE PARDOE

Joe has worked as a teacher and school leader for over fifteen years - in the UK and abroad. He has appeared at the Education Select Committee in the House of Commons, he is a published author and holds a Masters in Education Leadership. As well as his work in schools, he has been an education consultant for a number of BBC Bitesize productions and delivers a module on Education Innovation at the University College Dublin.

Since becoming a dad to two sons, Joe has dedicated his time to empowering parents with his insider wisdom to empower them to navigate the school system with confidence. His 5* rated courses have saved hundreds of parents time, stress and worry.

Start the Toolkit

Includes Instant 5* Course Access

Enrol Now!

In the included course you will...

Understand the System

Understand the school system, the application process and how school places are allocated.

Learn about the differences between different types of schools (academies, free-schools etc) and the pros and cons of all of the different options (including big / small, single-sex, religious etc).

Investigate the Data

Investigate the data about schools properly. Learn more about Ofsted and how to use reports, understand the academic performance data and the how this data is collected. Use this information like an insider!

BONUS: Explore loads of data most parents don't know exists... such as how much a school spends on supply teachers and student demographic data.

Explore Values & Debates

Education is values-based. Explore what this means using my Five Key Debates in Education framework to explore the key areas in which schools will take different approaches.

Explore how these debates match your own values and how to find out what a school is really like day-to-day during a school open evening.

Marv, East London

Extremely good! It helped me understand lots of different aspects of the system and feel confident about the choices we need to make for our children's education. The price was very reasonable and i couldn't recommend this any more.

100% Risk-Free! 100% refund for anyone not COMPLETELY satisfied!

Access the Toolkit

THREE great options...

Independent Navigator (Primary)
97£
Perfect if you’re early in the journey (not applying this year) and want to explore your options with clarity and confidence. You’ll get full, instant access to the course and resources.
- Full toolkit access (all modules and lessons)
- Frameworks to help you explore your values
- Guidance on what to look for in school visits
- Lifetime access
Best for THIS year's applications
Supported Navigator (Primary)
147£
For parents applying THIS YEAR who want reassurance, guidance and the ability to ask questions as they go.
Valid for 8 months
- Instant access to full course and resources
- Access to Masterclass sessions on primary schools
- Opportunities to submit your questions
- Access to the parent community
- Ongoing support and guidance
Guided Navigator (Primary)
247£
For parents applying this year who want personalised support. You’ll get everything in 'supported' - plus a 1:1 consultation focused on your child, your priorities and your options.
Valid for 8 months
- 1:1 consultation call with me
- Full, instant course access
- Masterclass sessions with experts
- Fortnightly Q&A sessions
- Supportive community

FAQ

Will you tell me which school is best for my child?

No. But I will give you the information, tools and frameworks you need to make the best decision for you and your family. Education is complex - what is good for one family, may be bad for another. You will finish the course empowered with all of the insider wisdom you need to understand the trade offs.

Do you cover all of the different school types? Like private schools?

Yes! I cover all of the main school types you will encounter in England. This includes state, local authority, grammar, independent, faith, single-sex etc. You can skip any not relevent to your context. The ebook which comes with the course goes into more detail about each options.

How much time will the course take to complete?

In total, around 3 hours. However, the sections are broken down into bitesize chunks of between 10-30 minutes. They are video based so can be watched after bedtime or on a commute. I have been told that the course also works well as a 'podcast' if you prefer to listen whilst making dinner!

Can I do it with my partner?

Absolutely! Just like doing a birth course, it can be helpful to go on this journey together. The last section about Values is good to discuss as a family as each member will likely have different (hidden) views of 'good school'. It is empowering to bring these to the surface.

How long can I access the course?

Forever! Once you enrol, you can have the course all through the process and beyond - you can re-do any sections, dip-in and out or skip ahead!

Isn't this information just available for free?

Yes and no. All of the information I show to you in the course can be accessed freely. However, I have spent four years collating and curating the information and then sequencing it so it is easy to understand. There is also lots of information not available - I have to create it myself.

All of the money goes directly back into continuing this project. All of my blogs are completely free. If you want to take the course, but can't afford the fee, please get in touch. I have explored offering this course via schools or local councils, but keeping it independent allows me to give honest, objective information and not simply push an agenda. My model is NCT or other courses designed for new parents (like sleep courses, potty training courses or weaning guidence)

What if I don't find it helpful?

I am confident you will! But, if not, just email joe@school-compass.com and I will arrange a refund straight away! I guess there is a first time for everything....