Independent school advice

[Awesomeanshi]

Hi,

Can you please advise the best way to find out good independent schools around bucks?

[tiffinboys]

How about 'Good Schools Guide' or Independent Schools Council for a start.

http://www.isc.co.uk/schools" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[scary mum]

Google? ISIS? Ask people about specific schools?

Bucks independent school aren't necessarily known for being academically selective as people choose free grammar schools if they can
Many of them have good reputations for pastoral care and the progress of their pupils, but you will find that most of them are fairly easy to get into. Others in neighbouring counties are likely to be more selective. It depends what you are looking for, really.

[Guest55]

Which part of Bucks?

It is a big county ... takes about two hours to drive from the north (Akeley) to the south (near Maidenhead).

[PettswoodFiona]

As another poster suggests the Good Schools Guide is excellent. Online you only get a snippet for free. Either invest in buying access for a month or buy a physical copy. Most public libraries will have a copy too.

Independents will also have inspection reports but as with all types of these reports will only be an indicator.

Open days and chatting to other parents is how once you've got a shortlist you can really identify if the school is the right match for your child.

There are agencies out there too that will do a matching service so if all else fails and you need the extra insight they can offer then something to consider. I don't know how they are funded and their motivation so haven't chosen that route in the past.

If you are into league tables the Telegraph I think do a table of top schools that includes independents alongside state, but as often some take iGsces and do the IBacc it can be hard to compare. Not all schools will appear in the tables.

I am South East London so can't advise specifically on your area, here there are all types of school, grammar, comprehensive, free schools, all ability independents, selective independents. Good luck with your research.

[Awesomeanshi]

Thanks, will have a look.