'Choosing' the 'Right' Secondary School for YOUR Child
A 60 minute live (online) MASTERCLASS followed by a Q&A to address YOUR questions
Presented by Joe Pardoe, Founder of School Compass
With more than 15 years of experience as a teacher, school leader, and education consultant, Joe has developed a wide range of expertise in education. However, it was when he became a dad (to two amazing boys!) that he noticed a glaring gap in the availability of clear, objective, and easy-to-understand information to help parents to confidently navigate the school system. This realisation inspired him to establish School Compass, a platform dedicated to bridging this informational gap and giving you the insider wisdom you need to take control of your child's educational journey.
George, East London
I thoroughly enjoyed the workshop. It was a complete eye-opener on the factors to take into consideration when choosing a school for your child. Joe is a great facilitator. His skills and experiences certainly shone through.
Tracey, South-East London
We were introduced to Joe when he did a short session at our son’s primary school. Reassuring that he was already known professionally to our school headteachers. We signed up to do some virtual sessions with Joe and thought they were brilliant - gave us the tools to understand the differences and similarities between secondary schools and highlighted interesting educational research that we’d probably have missed. We just felt more confident doing the school tours and filling in our application after that. I wish we’d found him sooner!
Begona, Surrey
The session was extremely informative and well explained. I now feel like I am much better position to find information about schools - knowing what is relevant to me and the type of school I want for my child.
FAQ
Is this course going to help?
I am so confident it will help, I will give a full refund if it doesn't! You are right in thinking that much of the process is out of your control - but this course helps you understand how the system works, how to use data effectively and efficiently and how to make the most of school visits. If you took a birthing course before having your child it works the same way - a lot of what happens is unpredictable, but that doesn't mean you need to go into the process without the information you need.
Will you tell me which school is best and how to ensure my child gets a place?
No. But I will help you to come to these decisions for yourself - with confidence. You know your child and your context and, most importantly, you will have your own values and views on what makes a 'good education'. I can help you understand the system, explore your values based around my '5 Key Education Debates' framework and direct you to where to find the information YOU need.
I will help you understand how the application process works so that you can fill in the forms with confidence.
I already have a specific school in mind, what is the point of doing this course?
Two reasons - firstly, your child might not get a place and secondly, you might be surprised and change your mind! Lots of parents who complete the course leave with a new perspective of the school system and more relaxed and open-minded about the prospect of their child moving to secondary school.
Do you cover all of the main school types?
In the course we look at state, independent, grammar, academy, free-schools, single-sex schools, faith schools and big/small schools. The workbook which comes free with the course goes into more detail. If you have a specific question about a school not covered in the course, I will answer your questions by email.
Will I be able to ask specific questions?
Yes! When you book a course, you can submit your questions - so even if you can't attend, you will get an answer. The courses are live, so you can also ask a question during the session. If you have a question after the session, I will be more than happy to answer it!