Camilla Swift Camilla Swift

Editor’s letter | 16 March 2017

issue 19 March 2017

One of the huge benefits of the British education system is the sheer number of alternatives on offer. But when it comes to choosing a school for your child, the choice can be overwhelming. In our cover piece on page 8, Ysenda Maxtone Graham looks at Britain’s faith primary schools, which could be a sensible option for the undecided parent.

And for those who truly need expert help in deciding, on page 25 Constance Watson examines the world of ‘educational consultants’, who do all the work for you.

We all hear constantly about how public school turns out smooth-talking, confident creatures (like David Cameron, for example). But on page 18 Henry Jeffreys recalls how his expensive education was no help in preparing for his disastrous job interviews.

Meanwhile, on page 21, Will Brown takes a look at another bastion of privilege, the Doon School, which is often referred to as ‘the Eton of India’. And there’s plenty more —not every school is perfect for every child, and on page 26 David Turner explains what the best options are if your child is at the wrong one.

In the Talking Heads column on page 6 we introduce Shaun Fenton, headmaster of Reigate Grammar. On page 16 Mark Palmer examines why school reports have become much less critical than in his day, and on page 34 James Delingpole recalls an act of vandalism on a school trip.

I do hope the magazine is an enjoyable read, and please look out for the next issue in September.

Camilla Swift

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