Applying to competitive independent schools can feel overwhelming. From 11+ and 13+ entrance exams to pre-tests, interviews and school selection strategies, parents are often left wondering what preparation really makes a difference. In this Independent Schools Show session, admissions experts from Bonas MacFarlane and Think Academy share practical advice on navigating the highly competitive school admissions process. The discussion explores what works, what doesn't, and how families can app...

What makes a highly academic school different and how can parents tell whether it would be the right environment for their child? In this Independent Schools Show panel discussion, moderated by Guy Schady-Beckett, Research & Digital Director, three leading London school heads explore what academic excellence looks like in practice, how selective admissions work, and the qualities schools look for when assessing prospective pupils. The discussion examines the pace of learning, expectatio...

Should your teenager stay in London and enjoy everything the capital has to offer, or experience the unique opportunities of boarding school life? In this Independent Schools Show discussion, two leading school leaders explore one of the biggest decisions many families face: choosing between a London day school and a boarding school education outside the capital. From independence and personal development to friendships, academic opportunities, family life and wellbeing, the panel examines ...

In this Independent Schools Show panel discussion, education leaders explore the often-overlooked benefits of staying at prep school until 13 and why Years 6–8 can play such an important role in a child's academic, social and emotional development. Moderated by Fiona Hughes D'Aeth, Head of Content Strategy (Consultant) at the Independent Schools Show, the panel examines the differences between 11+ and 13+ entry, the value of additional years in a prep school environment, and how parents can ...

Recorded live at the Summer Independent Schools Show 2026 on the Muddy Stilettos Stage, this practical and informative session tackles one of the biggest concerns for families considering independent education: the rising cost of school fees. With increasing pressure on household finances, the panel cuts through the headlines to offer clear, realistic guidance on how families can plan with confidence. Chaired by Rachel Jane, the conversation explores everything from understanding fee structur...

Recorded live at the Summer Independent Schools Show 2026 on the Muddy Stilettos Stage, this inspiring panel explores why one size doesn’t fit all when it comes to education. Every child learns differently, with their own strengths, challenges and ways of engaging with the world. Chaired by Hero Brown, the discussion looks at how schools are adapting their teaching, pastoral care and wider environments to ensure individuality is recognised, supported and celebrated. Through practical insights...

Recorded live at the Summer Independent Schools Show 2026 on the Muddy Stilettos Stage, this candid panel discussion explores one of the biggest decisions parents face: how do you choose the right school for your child? With so much emphasis on league tables, open days and polished prospectuses, it can be hard to know what really matters. Chaired by Rachel Jane, this practical conversation cuts through the noise to focus on the factors that genuinely shape a child’s school experience - from c...

Recorded live at the Summer Independent Schools Show 2026 on the Muddy Stilettos Stage, this thoughtful discussion tackles the question every parent asks first: will my child actually be happy at school? Before grades, league tables or university destinations, parents want to know that their child feels safe, supported and truly known. Chaired by Hero Brown, the panel explores what happiness at school really means and how strong pastoral care can shape confidence, resilience and a genuine sen...

Recorded live at the Summer Independent Schools Show 2026 on the Muddy Stilettos Stage, this lively panel asks a question many families are quietly considering: is it time to leave London? With rising costs, changing priorities and the search for a better balance, the conversation explores what life beyond the capital could really look like - from more space and better value to a different pace of family life, and exceptional schools you may never have considered. Chaired by Rachel Jane, this...

What’s Really Going On in the Independent School Sector? | Spring Independent Schools Show 2026 Recorded live at the Spring Independent Schools Show on 28 February 2026, this fast-paced panel brings together leading education journalists and sector experts to unpack the biggest developments shaping the independent school landscape. Cutting through the headlines, the panel delivers rapid-fire insights into the changes affecting families searching for schools today—from rising fees and leader...