ISP Senior Summer 2013

SENIOR EDITION SUMMER 2013  www.independentschoolparent.com

INSIDE...

P 47

Sport Summer sailing schools

P 82

Sir Ranulph Fiennes My school days

Moving on up The route to success

MORE ON...   

Uni open days Gap year escapes Music festivals – a parent’s guide

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Contents

CONTENTS Issue 6 Summer 2013 independentschoolparent.com

holiday A luxury s in Cypru

Welcome to the summer edition of

Christ’s Hospital, West Sussex

WIN! p.75

Independent School Parent. Have you every wondered whether your child is a warrior or a worrier? On page 32, Charlotte Phillips looks at how children cope differently in competitive and stressful situations. In A New Chapter, (p. 13) it’s all systems go as we give helpful tips and advice for those who are starting a new stage in their life as they head off to university. After last year’s triumphs at London 2012, the sailing fraternity is going great guns and nowhere more so than in our schools (p. 47). Explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes features in School Memories (p. 82), and his recollection of his time at Eton College is full to brimming with tales of derring do and stegophily – that’s the art of climbing tall buildings to you and me! Finally, we love this issue’s School Hero, Peter Davis, who is Director of Music at Oakham School, Rutland (p. 45). He’s not just a hero but an all-out champion of choirs, composing and concerts!

Gordonstoun, Moray

Claudia Dudman, Editor

COVER: Leweston School, Dorset

CNP Ltd, Jubilee House, 2 Jubilee Place, London SW3 3TQ Tel (020) 7349 3700 Fax (020) 7349 3701 Email editor@independentschoolparent.com For website and subscriptions, please visit: independentschoolparent.com/register EDITORIAL Editor Claudia Dudman Art Editor Kim Colley Assistant Editor Josephine Price PUBLISHING Publisher & Managing Director Paul Dobson Deputy Managing Director Steve Ross Commercial Director Vicki Gavin Publisher Simon Temlett Consultant Publisher David Moncrieff Subscriptions Manager Will Delmont 020 7349 3710, will.delmont@ chelseamagazines.com Marketing manager Chatty Dobson Production www.allpointsmedia.co.uk Printed in England by Wyndeham Heron, Essex ADVERTISING Senior Sales Executive Andy Mabbitt Sales Executives Thomas McMahon, Adam White DISTRIBUTION Independent School Parent magazine is for parents of children educated in prep and senior independent schools across the UK. The prep and senior issues are published termly. Parents can subscribe for a free issue at: independentschoolparent.com/register

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Education

25 Head viewpoint

5 Still going strong Barnaby Lenon rounds up the highlights from the ISC’s 2013 Census

29 Sixth form

HMC’s Chris Ray explores the choice to send your child to an independent school

7 News

James Wardrobe writes on how to prepare for sixth form

Our round up of hot topics

55 Girls in engineering

13 Off to uni Glynis Kozma looks at sending your child off to university

27 Preparing your CV James Brittain from Millfield School looks at how to tackle your CV at school

37 Open days Charlotte Phillips navigates the university open day 47 Sailing schools Tracy Cook writes on the serious sport of sailing in senior schools 51 Gap year If you do your homework, you’ll find the right gap year, writes Alice Baines from The Leap

Comment 19 Personal statement James Durant of UCAS explains how to write a winning personal statement

Rachel Kerr from the Girls’ Schools Association writes on the importance of STEM subjects

School’s out 42 Bright young things Josephine Price checks out the stars from the independent schools sector

Health 71 Face paint Thea Jourdan explores the great debate with teenager daughters: make-up.

Life 23 School fees Josephine Price meets a couple with a racehorse farm and a rather interestingly-named horse 17 The inbetweeners Katie Hughes looks at the strange status of 16-year-olds

32 Top Dog: warrior or worrier?

Charlotte Phillips looks at children who are worriers or warriors 41 Happy families Giulia Rhodes writes on how to keep step-children and step-siblings happy on holiday

56 Festival spirit Glynis Kozma looks at how to handle your child’s first festival 61 Photo diary Our round-up of what has been going on at schools this term 65 Book club Teenage holiday reads 67 Travel Find family holiday inspiration in our European getaways 45 School heroes Meet Peter Davis, Director of Music at Oakham School, Rutland 75 Competition Win a luxury holiday to Cyprus 79 What’s on?

Our round-up of what to do this summer 82 School memories Sir Ranulph Fiennes reflects on his time at Eton College

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD

Tor Down, Parent; James Durant, UCAS; Andrew Fleck, Headmaster, Sedbergh School; Tory Gillingham, AMDIS; Rachel Kerr, Girls’ Schools Association; Glynis Kozma, Educational Journalist; Zoe MacDougall, Teacher; Julie Pitcher, Independent Schools Council; Dr Anthony Seldon, Wellington College; Heidi Salmons, The Headmasters & Headmistresses’ Conference; Elaine Stallard, Elaine Stallard Consulting; Sheila Thompson, Boarding Schools’ Association; Ben Vessey, Headmaster, Canford School; Peter Young, Consultant Independent School Parent also publishes A First Eleven Guide to Independent Schools biannually. © CNP Ltd 2013. All rights reserved. Text and pictures are copyright restricted and must not be reproduced without permission from the publisher. The information contained in Independent School Parent magazine has been published in good faith and every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy.

All liability for loss, negligence or damage caused by reliance on the information contained within this publication is hereby excluded. All pictures by Thinkstock unless otherwise credited.

www.independentschoolparent.com

SUMMER 2013 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL PARENT 3

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COMMENT

Still going strong...

Despite tough times, there are more pupils at independent schools than last year, writes Barnaby Lenon of the Independent Schools Council

I

t is remarkable that despite the recession our latest Census for 2013 shows there to be more pupils at Independent Schools Council schools than last year. This is a very robust performance despite a challenging economic environment.

Also encouraging is the relatively modest rise in fees – the lowest for almost 20 years – and the big increase in the value of means-tested bursaries.

These two facts, together with the proven excellence of our schools as shown by both the 2012 public exam results and the Team GB medal winners at the London Olympics, will help to maintain our future prosperity.

population; it shows their wide range of SEN pupils; it shows their significant numbers of international pupils; and it shows increasing bursary provision.

It also shows that the very great majority of our schools are engaged in partnership schemes with local maintained schools and the wider community. Such partnerships benefit pupils at ISC schools as much as they do our state school partners and we can be proud to see these schemes grow.

All shapes and sizes

❝ By virtue of being independent,

each school is able to be flexible and offer something unique to its pupils ❞ Overseas empire Almost 30 of our schools have now set up branches abroad. These overseas schools educate nearly 19,000 pupils; in due course this figure may well overtake the number of non-British pupils in ISC UK schools. Such developments are part of a major trend: the internationalisation of education. Our schools have followed the pioneer UK universities in establishing branches abroad, and in doing so, ISC schools are playing an essential role in helping to ensure that the brand of British education continues to be regarded as a mark of quality worldwide.

Why have we done this? Partly to www.independentschoolparent.com

provide a source of revenue for UK schools in order to hold down fee increases and fund bursaries; and partly to provide a platform for pupil or teacher exchanges with all the obvious benefits which can arise when a school has a campus in another country. This is a significant area of growth for ISC schools and one which marks an important and positive trend.

Reaching out

One of the key strengths of our schools is their diversity as this helps to expand the horizons of all of our pupils. This Census shows that our schools have a large and growing minority ethnic pupil

Above, Barrow Hills School, Surrey

Independent schools come in all shapes and sizes. Many are small; some are based in remote areas; some rely heavily on boarders; all operate solely on funds they must raise themselves, without support from the state.

Despite their independence, our schools do not exist in a vacuum.

Independent school parents face the same pressures as all parents and independent school pupils share the same challenges as the rest of their generation.

But, by virtue of being independent, each school is able to be flexible and offer something unique to their pupils.

Best in the world

What’s your view? Discuss on Twitter... @ISParent

This is why, amidst economic chaos, political pressure and intense media scrutiny, independent schools are among the best in the world and more parents than ever would choose for their children to be educated in our schools.

Barnaby Lenon is chairman of the Independent Schools Council.

For more information visit... www.independentschoolparent.com

SUMMER 2013 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL PARENT 5

20 13

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News

Our pick of parenting and education news

WaterAid The charity, WaterAid has selected a student from Queen’s School, Chester to feature in their new appeal. Debbie Overton (below) will be appearing in the “Make for Change” campaign after spending three weeks in Madagascar, last summer, helping their projects in a country where less than half the population has access to clean water.

Less than a quarter has access to a safe toilet. WaterAid is now asking groups to make things to sell to raise funds for their projects in 27 of the world’s poorest countries. wateraid.com/makeforchange

Students from Millfield School, Somerset travelled to London last month to host a musical soirée at Cadogan Hall, Chelsea. The performance included the school’s prizewinning ensemble, The Millfield Camerata, which performed the world premiere of Jumping the Rhynes a piece specially written for the school by Stewart Copeland (pictured), an Old Millfieldian, and former member of the band, The Police.

Ring, ring A UCAS survey has revealed that 82% of new university and college students own a smartphone and at least 20% have a tablet device. British students are also 40% more likely than the rest of the UK population to own a smartphone.

CULTURAL LEARNING

The Royal Opera House held a conference of the future of cultural learning in an attempt to reintroduce the value of the arts to young people’s lives and education. “We’ve got to stop thinking that they are some kind of luxury you do when you’ve found some time outside maths,” said Martin Green, former head of ceremonies for London 2012.

Awards for Excellence The Council for Independent Education (CIFE) held its annual Academic Awards presentation at the House of Lords in March. Exceptional students received awards for academic excellence and the gongs were presented by Baroness Perry of Southwark. www.independentschoolparent.com

SUMMER 2013 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL PARENT 7

NEWS

Dive Deep A group of intrepid divers

from Oundle School, Northamptonshire, took to the seas this Easter as its Dive Club made their annual pilgrimage to the Safaga region in Egypt. As they explored the reef and shipwrecks, a pod of dolphins joined them on their excursion...

Working Holiday

Independent SchoolS Show dubaI

Isabelle Allen with co-star Hugh Jackman

The Independent Schools Show held its first show in Dubai in April. The country is an established global hub and top schools such as Marlborough, Wellington College, Bedales, Abingdon, Godolphin, Fettes, King’s Ely, Malvern, Oundle, Tonbridge and Knightsbridge School attended to showcase the best of British education to the expat and local community in Dubai.

For parents who worry that children might fall behind in their school work during the holidays, all is not lost!

Tutoring organisation Tutor House has the perfect solution!

Their new service provides private tutors to families on their holidays. The tutors can travel with the family or meet them at their destination to provide extra academic input.

The tutors are available on a flexible basis, bookable by day. This initiative gives families the chance to travel at any time of year without the worry of taking children out of school during term time.

“Families can also optimise key revision periods, such as Easter and Christmas holidays, by providing all the revision and educational support needed to achieve exam success without missing out on family holidays,” said Alex Dyer, Director of Tutor House. tutorhouse.co.uk

Milestone anniversary Harrogate ladies’ College, north yorkshire,

celebrated their 120th anniversary in May. special guest, lord Masham attended to officially open a new assembly Hall to mark the occasion. the celebrations were for all three areas of the school community from pre-prep to sixth form students and included fashion shows, dance displays and giant inflatable twisters.

Female filmakers Twenty Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST) schools descended on Soho’s Curzon cinema last month as part of a short film competition, organised by the GDST. The films were judged by a panel of seven successful women in TV, film and theatre, chosen to inspire the next generation of young female filmmakers. The three winners were Brighton & Hove High School, Blackheath High School and Streatham & Clapham High School.

8 Independent School parent Summer 2013

Universities struggle to fill places

New research by the Times Education Supplement has shown that more and more degree courses are lying empty as the tuition fee hike truly takes its toll. For 2012/13, there are 1,005 empty courses, according to data supplied by 60 universities. Only 10 institutions have recruited students on to all courses.

www.independentschoolparent.com

Learn from world-leading experts

Dr Matt Baker

Dr Matt Baker, pioneering new research in the fight against cancer. Just one of the reasons some of the best students are finding their inspiration at UCLan. UCLan has evolved over the years to become a world-class institution, recognised with its inclusion in the most recent QS World Rankings – the first modern university in the UK to gain this status. Separately, UCLan has also been awarded by QS the maximum 5 stars for the quality of its teaching.

To find out more about opportunities to engage with UCLan staff and our excellent student support, please call Heather on 01772 894440 or email hbooth1@uclan.ac.uk Visit www.uclan.ac.uk

Innovative thinking for the real world

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sUMMER 2013 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ParENT 9

NEWS

The Coldest Journey

Record-breaking explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes’ new Antarctic adventure, aptly named The Coldest Journey, is looking to inspire a generation of school children throughout the UK and the Commonwealth. The team of explorers are trekking across the Antartic continent this winter (below) to raise $10m for charity and are providing a wealth of resources to schools who will be able to track the progress of the trip and get involved. Microsoft has partnered with the scheme to allow schools to subscribe to the educational platform. thecoldestjourney.org/education

Serious about Sport ACS International School, Egham, Surrey has taken its investment in sport to a whole new level. The school has unveiled a brand new state-of-the-art centre, (below) which has 2 FIBA- sized basketball courts (that fit 8 badminton courts), a dance studio, fitness suite and climbing wall. The school is also offering students a brand new course, an IB diploma in Sports, Health and Science, which covers the science and health behind sport.

It’s perfect for those wanting a career as a coach or trainer.

Schools The Sanger fees payment Centre for plan Science and SFP, a division of Mathematics Premium Credit, the leading provider in (right) at premium financing Bryanston has just launched which is now School, Dorset, has delivered far more MySFP available direct to consumers. MySFP than expected: there has been a a monthly marked increase in exam performance ispayment facility, which allows parents and A level take-up has increased. to pay their child’s Hopkins Architects, the creative force school fees by direct debit behind the building, have won several monthly – while the school awards for their designs for the new receives the full fees direct on a termly school departments. basis from the

Blow your own Trumpet!

Wimbledon High School, London, recently hosted their own “Blow Your Own Trumpet” week. The campaign was initiated by the Girls Schools’ Association (GSA) to encourage students to celebrate their achievements. The week aimed to challenge perceptions that talking about success is a sign of arrogance.

10 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL PARENT SUMMER 2013

company. Parents pay an APR comparable to that of a mortgage, making it an extremely affordable way to smooth school fee payments into manageable monthly amounts rather than large once-a-term bills.

Up until now, instalment finance from SFP has only been available to parents through application via a child’s school. The launch of MySFP is the first of its kind in the school fees market.

Festival of Education 2013 Wellington College will once again play host to The Sunday Times Festival of Education on 21st and 22nd June. The festival has an impressive line up with both the Rt Hon Michael Gove, MP, and Sir Michael Wilshaw, the Chief inspector of Schools speaking on leadership, innovation and developments in the field of education. The seminar programme is jam-packed with influential speakers and Independent School Parent will be there at stand 108, please do drop bye and say hello. festivalofeducation2013.org.uk

www.independentschoolparent.com

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sUMMER 2013 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ParENT 11

Swansea University Open Days 2013

Saturday 29th June Saturday 5th October Saturday 2nd November

Original thinkers welcome swansea.ac.uk/makingwaves

Name: Lewis Jones Education: Clayesmore School Degree: 2nd Year BSc. (Hons) Economics I originally considered Swansea University because my Economics teacher was very positive and passionate about her experience there as a student.

So I went for an Open Day and fell in love with the wonderful surroundings, the site itself and of course the beach, located about 200 metres away.

I am studying Economics which I am enjoying very much. The workload is stretching but manageable, and the staff are experts in their fields.

For my first year I lived on the university campus which I found very convenient (bed to lecture in under 3 minutes!) It also engendered a great social life, as I quickly made many new friends. On reflection, I settled into university life surprisingly quickly, and this was certainly assisted by the help and support of the Residential Services team.

This year I have been working on Applicant Visit Days, helping applicants (and their parents) get a taste of Swansea and the university when they come to visit the department they’ve applied to. Based on my personal experience, I try to pass on the impressions and information that I think they need, to help them decide which university is really right for them.

Much of my spare time is taken up by the University’s Royal Navy Unit.

Every Thursday night I attend drill and lectures about different aspects of Navy life and work. At weekends I’m frequently on board a Naval patrol ship, and travelling the UK. My ultimate goal is to join the Royal Navy. With the help and encouragement I receive from university staff, the time they invest in me and the opportunities the university provides me with, I am confident Swansea will help me in achieving this aim.

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Academic and Sporting Scholarships worth up to £3,000

Universities

y

A new chapter

Off tO University

Universities provide a range of support to help students settle into campus life, writes Glynis Kozma www.independentschoolparent.com

ou’ve bought the duvet, towels, pans and the student cook books.

Now, as you wave goodbye to your son or daughter and leave them to settle into their university hall of residence, you are likely to feel somewhat emotional when they embark on a new chapter of their education.

University is a rite of passage not just for students, but also for parents. For teenagers, it’s their first experience of being almost fully independent: no one is going to wake them up in the mornings, do their laundry, ensure they eat healthily or control how much alcohol they drink.

Furthermore, they will have to study independently, manage their finances and form new friendships.

For a parent, it can be hard to judge how much support your child wants from you and how much is being offered by the universities. It is reassuring that most universities put a good deal of thought into helping students settle in. They understand that some students take longer to settle and a range of support is on offer.

The university experience begins with freshers’ week; alcohol is usually very much in evidence, but it’s not all wall-to-wall drinking. The University of Aston provides zumba and ping pong along with cookingon-a budget recipe cards. Aston Aunties – older students – help freshers find their feet. The British College of Osteopathic Medicine has a buddy system and they acknowledge that some students may be slightly older and have different needs.

SUmmer 2013 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ParENT 13

❝ For a parent it can be hard to judge how much

support your child wants from you and how much is being offered by their university ❞

Say hello to independence Barrie Clark, student recruitment manager of the University of Swansea says: “Universities fully appreciate that helping a student adjust to university life in the early stages, and ensuring that students remain happy, secure and successful in all aspects of their life over their years at university, is crucial.”

Often support from other students is helpful. Many universities including the University of Sheffield and Goldsmiths, London, provide peer mentoring: they match new students with second or third year students in their department.

Sheffield’s student support service focuses on key areas: living with others, keeping healthy and managing money, as well as a 24-hour welfare support team.

Students and parents can navigate this support via the university website.

A one-stop shop

Finding your way around a large campus, or a university where the buildings are scattered across a city can

be daunting, and this is recognised by both Liverpool Hope University and the University of Central Lancashire. Each offers a one-stop shop for student welfare on the main campus. Alison Blackburn, Director of Student Welfare at UCLAN explains: “We have an ‘Induction App’, as well as an induction book, and our support extends to airport welcoming for overseas students and a ‘buddy’ who will provide support.”

If you, or matron, have always been on hand to treat your child’s aches, pains and runny noses, you may worry how your son or daughter is able to survive not only freshers’ flu, but other common ailments. All students are encouraged to register with a doctor during their first week and many universities have health centres solely for students. At the University of Bristol, Dr Dominique Thompson, Director of Student Health, explains: “Minor illnesses like colds and sore throats can be an issue because some students can’t differentiate between what symptoms they can treat themselves, and with what, and when they should see a doctor.” Students will

14 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ParENT summer 2013

find medical support for whatever they require. Thompson explains that some psychological conditions such as anorexia can be exacerbated by change, and Bristol has a clinic dedicated to eating disorders.

New relationships

Meeting new people is part of the attraction of university life and it can be hard to accept that you cannot control what your child is doing in the same way as if they were living with you or being cared for by house staff. Forming new relationships is part of university life and university medical centres offer free treatment and advice.

Thompson says: “Many consultations at the health centre are for STIs or contraception.” Nearly all universities provide counselling if students need non-judgmental support.

The University of Kent has both a medical centre and pharmacy located on the main campus with same-day GP appointment services and a seven-daysa-week nursing service. www.independentschoolparent.com

Universities

There is no doubt that the intoxicating mix of freedom, drink and drugs can be a temptation for students, especially those who have not experienced much freedom before. The University of Southampton has a full range of support: their counselling team offers workshops and drop-in sessions for students who are homesick, and Nightline, a listening service run by students provides support at a time when it’s easy to feel isolated.

Academic support All universities have academic support in place via a personal tutor, and would emphasise that students should not wait to access support if they find they are not coping with their work. Students who have conditions such as dyslexia will find support readily available, and any student who thinks they could be dyslexic will be able to be assessed prior to receiving support.

If you have always been a taxi driver for your son or daughter, picking them up at an agreed time day and night, the idea of them being in a large city in the small www.independentschoolparent.com

hours can be worrying. Many schools offer lessons in personal safety, and if not, a self-defence course and a personal alarm can be reassuring.

If the university is not campus based, then transport may be organised by the university itself.

Richard Kennett, Director of Admissions and Recruitment at the University of Southampton says: “We run the Safety Bus, organised by the students’ union, and the Student Taxi Scheme, to ensure students can get home safely at night.” Many universities have campus security including the University of Hull, which has wardens and tutors available in all university accommodation, as well as a community police officer on site to advise on crime prevention.

Knowing how much contact your son or daughter wants with you as they are settling into university is hard to gauge, so it’s worth talking this through with them before they go. But you can be assured that help of every kind is available for them and in any case, in ten weeks’ time they’ll be home with their dirty washing.

Above, the University of Oxford provides a dramatic and beautiful backdrop to university life

Tips for parenTs and sTudenTs Practise shopping for and cooking healthy meals on a daily or weekly budget at home. Ensure they know how to use a washing machine for different fabrics. Pack a basic first aid kit and remedies for freshers’ flu, colds and sore throats. Discuss budgeting: it’s not unknown for students to spend their year’s loan in one term. Check the small print about internet access in their halls of residence and be prepared to connect their pcs on arrival. Discuss personal safety at night in large unknown cities. Look carefully at bank accounts offered to students and the best deals available before they deposit their loan.

SUmmer 2013 independenT sCHooL parenT 15

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COMMENT

The Inbetweeners Sixteen-year-olds occupy a twilight world where they are semi-adults on the one hand and still considered children on the other, writes Katie Hughes

T

hey are allowed to get married, but not to book a hotel for the honeymoon; to smoke but not to buy cigarettes and to leave home but not to sign a tenancy agreement. And, from this year, the law says they will have to stay in training or education, at least part time, until they are 17. Welcome to the semi-adult, semi-responsible, semi-free world of the 16 year-old.

At 18, the freedom of adulthood sweeps young people out of this ambiguous state.

Even boarding schools commonly offer (limited) pub visits, self-catering facilities and car parking spaces to their 18 -year-old pupils.

“I feel grown up, but there are so many things I can’t do,” says my own 16-year-old.

Aside from getting married and leaving home, she can, in fact, join the army, consent to medical treatment or even change her name by deed poll. But none of this is as alluring as the forbidden freedom of driving. A new law passed in January,

What’s your view? Discuss on Twitter... @ISParent

IT'S TIME TO GIVE 16-YEAR-OLDS A VOICE “We welcome lively debate from our 16-year-olds in societies such as PPE, anthropology and Model United Nations (MUN),” says Dr Matt Edwards of Sevenoaks School in Kent.

“Each year we send a number of students to represent the school at the MUN abroad and they love this opportunity to talk about the world and their future role in it. We also discuss ideas of freedom and rights as part of the IB course we follow, allowing discussions about the delicate balancing act between ‘individuals’ and the ‘community’.”

Sixteen-year-olds at Abingdon School in

www.independentschoolparent.com

Oxfordshire also participate in MUN conferences, and in other external events such as the European Youth Parliament Forum and British parliamentary format debating and public speaking contests. “They also take part in our regular school debates,” says the school’s Rachel Yarrow. “Topics may include important voting rights, political ideologies and contemporary political issues” Like many independent schools, Sevenoaks and Abingdon encourage 16-year- olds to take on a variety of responsibilities; be it as prefects, elected councillors or managers of societies.

❝ I feel grown up, but there

is so much that I can’t do ❞

allowing those of 16 to get behind the wheel of a lightweight micro car, could have appeased her – but the car’s maximum speed is a sedate 28mph.

Even if a 16 year-old wanted to start saving for four wheels they would struggle to do so. The minimum wage for this age is just £3.68 an hour, compared to £4.98 for an 18 year-old, even if they are doing the same job, with the same level of experience. This can make them more dependent on their parents – which is the one thing most of them are keen to avoid.

An independent social life is one way to break these parental chains. But there are inconsistencies from entertainment venues. A friend’s son of 16 recently bought three concert tickets. One specified that he had to be over 14, another over 16 and the third over 18 to gain unaccompanied entry.

What about alcohol? The law says that, at 16, a young person can drink cider, beer or wine with food, in licensed premises, if

bought and accompanied by an adult. And many schools follow this advice. “We aim to educate pupils in the safe and appropriate use of alcohol in a sociable and mature setting,” says Craig Considine, Headmaster of Millfield School, Somerset.

“We allow sixth form pupils a small amount of alcohol on certain occasions, but we encourage pupils to make their own choices – and indeed a good number choose not to drink at these times.”

While alcohol is within reach for 16 year-olds, voting is not, unless they live in Scotland – where 16 is now the minimum age to cast a vote in next year’s referendum on independence. In England they must, for the moment, wait until they’re 18. But perhaps they can seek solace from the fact that they are still allowed to drive a moped, buy a lottery ticket or even pilot a glider...

For more information visit... www.independentschoolparent.com

SUMMER 2013 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL PARENT 17

Think of your future…

“This is a fantastic and inspirational place…”

Parry Workman BA Chinese Studies & Philosophy Ancient Civilisations Anthropology Archaeology Art & Design Business & Management Chinese Studies Classics Computing Creative Writing

Early Childhood Education Studies English Film & Media History: Ancient, Medieval, Modern Humanities Performing Arts Philosophy Psychology

0300 500 1822 www.tsd.ac.uk CARMARTHEN • LAMPETER

Religion Social Inclusion Sport, Health & Outdoor Education Teaching Welsh Workplace Studies Youth & Community Work

univerSity

Straight to the top James Durant of UCAS gives some insider advice on how to write a winning personal statement

S

ome course tutors find UCAS personal statements crucial when making decisions on applications, so it’s important that you’re able to make yours stand out.

Along with writing about why you have applied for the course, universities also like to know the range of skills you have that will help you on the course, or just generally at university. Linking volunteering and leadership in extracurricular activities to your area of study will strengthen your application.

There are several different deadlines at UCAS, depending on which courses you are looking to apply to but it’s never too early to start thinking about your personal statement. It could be the only piece of written work that the admissions team see before making a decision. The writing should demonstrate your best abilities, and following these ground rules should get you off to a great start.

Go for a strong opening line to grab the reader’s attention. A punchy opener will bring attention to your application straight away, and give you something to build on for the remainder of your

top tips: Be careful with attention-grabbing statements. The admissions tutor may not share your sense of humour, so be careful when trying to make your statement stand out.  Write what comes naturally. In your personal statement you need to put your meaning across directly and simply.  the quality of your writing reflects the quality of your thinking. Show that you know your strengths and can outline your ideas clearly.  Don't forget to explain why you want to study the course. If you mention interests and hobbies, try to link them to the skills required for the course.

www.independentschoolparent.com

it's important to relate your interests to the courses you are applying for

Expressing an interest in your chosen subject and showing real passion is crucial ❞ ❝

personal statement. Try to make it as original as possible.

Expressing an interest in your chosen subject and showing real passion is crucial. Demonstrating your enthusiasm in as much detail as possible will show admissions tutors that you really are excited about studying this subject at higher education level.

It’s important to relate your outside interests to the courses that you are applying for. For example, playing a musical instrument shows sustained commitment and the ability to juggle

your time effectively between your school and music studies.

You can show how you have acted on your interest in particular subjects by attending extra-curricular activities or events. Talks at the Royal Society or local universities are good examples of where someone has taken their passion beyond the school gates. If you help run a sports club or do any volunteer work, this will also add weight to your personal statement.

There is also an employment section on the application where you can put Summer 2013 iNDEpENDENt sCHooL parENt 19

29 June 2013 14 September 2013 12 October 2013

Visit the Campus Meet Our Students Talk to Our Tutors See Our Facilities

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Getting the right grades is not the only thing that counts for us when you want to study nursing at the University of Hull – your talents with people and your approach to caring is just as important ‘Many departments use talent elements to select the best students for our courses, for example, music and drama students go through an auditions process on top of the grade requirements, and nursing is another field where that approach is vital.

Pre-registration Nursing as a professional career has undergone a huge transformation in the last five years. Many providers of nursing education had diploma only outcomes. In Hull we have always been inspirational and offered an Advanced Diploma (80 level 6 credits and an option to ‘top up’ to degree) standards is a central goal throughout our nursing programmes has led to a culture within the Faculty of Health and Social Care where a systematic approach to widening participation alongside outcome aspirations has proven successful.

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Book your place online at www.hull.ac.uk/opendays Saturday 9.30am – 4.00pm 29 June 2013 14 September 2013 12 October 2013

Visit the Campus Meet Our Students Talk to Our Tutors See Our Facilities

Harrogate Ladies’ College provides outstanding facilities for boarding and day girls age 11 to 18 within its beautiful 27 acre campus. Pupils regularly take up places at Oxford, Cambridge and other top UK universities.

Proud Sponsors of The Discovery Zone, Great Yorkshire Show 9-11th July 2013.

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www.hlc.org.uk 20 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ParENT sUMMER 2013

YouScan.me

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UNIVERSITY

UCAS DEADLINES: Þ 15th October for Oxbridge applicants, and for those applying to study medicine, dentistry, veterinary science and science. Þ 15th January for all other applications. Check the UCAS site Þ 24th March for those pupils who are applying to study art and design courses.

paid employment down, so the university can get an idea of whether you have taken on a job to help you towards the course. The statement allows you to elaborate on what you have learnt and particularly why you want to do the course.

Think beyond the university course.

For courses with a sandwich-year, placements throughout the degree and a

paragraph and sentence structure. Place yourself in the position of the university by reading your statement back to yourself; would you be impressed by it, or are silly mistakes letting it down?

It’s important to use language you are comfortable with so as not to lose the focus of your writing. Try not to go too far and use words you wouldn’t normally choose, to try and sound more

If you have missed your application deadline, UCAS will process it as long as it's submitted before 30th June

❝ Simple aspects of writing that

are often forgotten can take away from your beautifully crafted personal statement ❞ specific career at the end, applicants must show a strong knowledge of the role of a professional in that career.

Writing about the career paths that you are interested in after graduation shows that university that you are serious about your application.

Getting the basics right shouldn’t be underestimated. Simple aspects of writing that are often forgotten can really take away from your beautifully crafted personal statement. Checking your spelling and grammar before submitting the application is of upmost importance. Admissions selectors are assessing your ability to write an essay at university standard. Think about your www.independentschoolparent.com

“academic”. For example, an “incomparable orator” is more naturally described as having an “aptitude” or interest in public speaking. Universities and colleges will pick up on this right away, and won’t look favourably on it.

Take time also to make it your best work. The UCAS application software is designed for you to log in multiple times before submitting your application, so there’s no need to rush. Start early, take your time and get feedback on your work before finally submitting it. Applicants’ personal statements help institutions identify suitable candidates, especially in the most competitive courses.

Rushing will mean mistakes and not

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provide you with enough time to get it checked over by your parents or teachers.

The deadlines are important. As long as you get you application submitted to UCAS by 15th October, 15th January or 24th March (depending on which courses you are applying for – check the UCAS website if you aren’t sure), then the universities and colleges will consider your application alongside everyone else.

If you decide to apply after the relevant deadline for your courses, all is not lost.

You can still send in your application as UCAS continues to process them until 30th June. If the university still has places, they will still consider your application and could make you an offer.

Any application received later than this will go into Clearing. While the date may seem like a very long way off, it is never too early to start working on the first draft of your personal statement.

One final point to remember is that every personal statement is checked against a library of those previously submitted to UCAS, sample statements, and other sources. Any statement showing a level of similarity of 10% or more is reviewed by UCAS. The key message here is don’t cheat or copy someone else’s work. Universities are interested in your application and want to hear about you, not anyone else. As long as you follow the advice here, and tips given to you by your teachers, you won’t go far wrong.

For more information visit... www.independentschoolparent.com

SUMMER 2013 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL PARENT 21

THE CHILD’S PLAY ALTERNATIVE WHEN PAYING SCHOOL FEES Our recent research shows that financially astute parents are actively seeking more prudent approaches to managing their finances*.

It is therefore more vital than ever that schools have a variety of payment options at their disposal, and SFP can help in this endeavour.

Our service: • Offers a flexible cost effective payment option for parents • Provides reassurance of improved cash flow for schools • Delivers a professional service: online and digital • Demonstrates school’s commitment to meeting parents payment expectations.

We understand that the course of parenting doesn’t always run smoothly.

Thankfully with SFP, at least paying their school fees can.

To find out more how SFP can benefit your school, call us or visit the website.

01372 746 006 | www.sfpschoolfees.co.uk. *Reference: Omnibus Survey (April 2013). 2,019 people surveyed. Conducted by Populus on behalf of SFP, part of Premium Credit.

LIFE

Olly, what got you into training racehorses?

Well, despite going to Winchester College, I was never particularly keen on the academic side of things. I’ve always been an outside person and the extracurricular activities on offer were fantastic. Having grown up in Newmarket, I was determined to be a racehorse trainer, which I think was the last thing my parents wanted me to do.

School fees

Educated at Winchester College and Tudor Hall, Olly and Hetta Stevens share the secrets of their successful racehorse-training business with Josephine Price What happened after school?

After starting a law degree at the University of Manchester, I plucked up the courage to drop out and get back in to race horses. I started to work my way from the bottom up, working for several people in England and Ireland to gain enough experience to get a long-term visa for the United States.

Why the States?

The system in America allows you a lot more say, enhanced responsibility and quite a lot of autonomy. Provided I did everything right, the horses were winning and the company was making money, my boss left me alone and that was always very attractive to me.

What are the perks of the job?

The lovely thing about horse racing is that you can really go anywhere in the world with it. I’ve got friends working all over the globe and I’ve had the chance to work in England, Ireland, France, Italy and America.

Above, Hetta and Olly Stevens with twins Georgia and Victoria. Right, riding out at Robins Farm Racing

How did Robins Farm Racing begin?

Hetta had previously worked with David Webbers who is the racing manager to the Al Thani family and had really impressed him. On the day our twin daughters were born, we sent out a round-robin email to everyone to say we’d had twin girls and I got a reply from David Webbers saying to phone him back as soon as possible as he had a proposition for us. And so we teamed up with Sheikh Fahad to create Robins Farm Racing.

Tell us a little about your interestingly-named horse, School Fees?

She is owned by a good, fun syndicate of people in their late-thirties/early-forties with children of prep school age.

What advice would you give to someone looking to get involved in a syndicate?

Phone me up! If you’re joining a syndicate you want to make sure you like the guy

❝ The lovely thing about horse racing is that

you can really go anywhere in the world with it ❞ www.independentschoolparent.com

that’s training the horse, you like the other people in the syndicate and you’re going to get enjoyment out of it; that’s our aim.

What do you see in the future for your twins, Georgia and Victoria?

We’re very lucky where we are with Cranleigh and Charterhouse schools down the road. Provided I can train enough winners, that is what we’ll do.

And what type of school do you envisage them going to?

I’m very keen on boarding but Hetta is less so. In my opinion, boarding equips you to deal with a lot of things in life that day school just doesn’t. I think that boys schools or co-ed schools offer a lot more extra-curricular activites so if I can bear sending my precious daughters away,that could be what we’ll do.

I’m just glad they’re only one at the moment so all that is still a long way off.

Read more on Olly and Hetta’s story at robinsfarmracing.com For more information visit... www.independentschoolparent.com

SummER 2013 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ParENT 23

U AN C N D H D ER S ILD T 16 UD RE G EN N O T FR S EE

FOR PARENTS, TEACHERS, LECTURERS AND STUDENTS The Sunday Times Festival of Education is aimed at everyone interested and involved in education, be they parents, teachers, lecturers or students. The Festival will cut through the jargon to provide you with sound and accessible advice about the key issues involved in education. We have brought together a vast range of speakers – all experts in their fields – to stimulate debate and answer your questions about schools, universities…and beyond.

Just some of the discussions and interactive sessions for parents and students include:

- EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SOCIAL MEDIA INCLUDING A SESSION ON FACEBOOK PRIVACY, BY FACEBOOK - CALMER, HAPPIER PARENTING - OXFORD & CAMBRIDGE EXPLAINED - THE TROUBLE WITH BOYS - EXPLORING THE TEENAGE BRAIN AND MIND - OMELETTE CHALLENGE WITH CELEBRITY CHEF PAUL RANKIN LIVE ON THE SODEXO ENTERTAINMENT STAGE - BAKE OFF COMPETITION (SATURDAY) JUDGED BY PAUL RANKIN - RAISING A CHILD WITH SEVERE DISABILITIES (BY KATIE PRICE) - AN INTERVIEW WITH MICHAEL GOVE - MATHS FOR MUMS & DADS - HELPING YOUR CHILD WITH SPELLING - HOW TO HELP YOUR CHILD CHOOSE THE RIGHT CAREER - VISIT THE MOTION CAPTURE AND ANIMATION STUDIO More student activities to be announced...

www.festivalofeducation.org.uk www.facebook.com/EducationFest Event managed by www.summerhousemedia.com

Sponsored by @EducationFest

HEAD VIEWPOINT

Not such a posh privilege?

Many pupils are at independent school because their families make huge financial sacrifices, writes Chris Ray

T

he view that only the rich send their children to fee-paying schools is at best simply a disingenuous myth, but at worst a politically motivated fabrication.

Many children in independent schools are there because their families make considerable financial sacrifices. Many other children attend fee-paying schools because their extended families – aunts, uncles, grandparents – pick up the bill.

And yet other children are educated in such schools because the schools themselves provide the cash.

At The Manchester Grammar School,

❝ There is no doubt that

an independent education is a serious financial commitment ❞ some 250 pupils (out of 1,500 in the school) receive means-tested remission on fees. There are very many other independent schools which provide significant means-tested bursaries. In 2012/13, Headmasters’ and Headmistresses’ Conference (HMC) schools alone provided well over £60 million in means-tested assistance to poorer families and Independent Schools Council (ISC) schools provided nearly 40,000 means-tested bursaries.

Yes, in the independent sector there are children of some seriously wealthy parents. Perhaps this is not surprising with over 250,000 millionaires in the UK. However, there are over 500,000 children in independent schools.

Therefore we should not discount the www.independentschoolparent.com

250 out of 1,500 pupils at The Manchester Grammar School receive meanstested remission on fees

What’s your view? Discuss on Twitter... @ISParent

possibility that there may be at least as many children of wealthy families educated in the state sector as in the independent sector.

Yet there are several points which should be noted: 1. During the last ten years, fees have increased in the independent day sector by over 50%.

2. According to the Independent Schools Council, the average fee in the day sector is over £11,700.

3. The average boarding fee is over £26,000.

4. There is a great degree of regional variation: an education in London will cost parents at least 50% more than in the North.

So, there is no doubt that an independent education is a serious financial commitment.

When a moderate-income family decides upon an independent education for their child it might be represented with some justification as an act of financial insanity. Not only are substantial taxes paid to cover the overall cost of state-maintained education,

school fees increase the burden tremendously.

Yet the benefits of an independent education can be immense. The best schools in the sector focus not simply upon the achievement of excellent academic results, they also help to prepare children for their future careers and lives as citizens.

Although some fear that the supposed negative attitudes of universities might remove the icing from this particular cake, there is no real evidence to suggest that there is any discriminatory bias: this point was made forcefully at the HMC Conference in Belfast last October by the Chief executive of UCAS, Mary Curnock Cook.

There are some of us who dream that one day the quality of education provided in the independent sector will be freely available and indeed free to all.

Although there are a few independent schools which have joined the statemaintained sector as academies, the number involved is indeed small – despite the hyperbole in the media when the odd school accepts the Queen’s shilling. Although most of us value our independence far too much to lose it. For independence brings a genuine freedom to decide with our parents what is best and is right for the children in our care without fear of any retribution for failing to meet the bogus and often absurd targets set for state schools.

So I continue to dream of the day when Government will remove itself from the educational arena so that our schools may be genuinely free in every sense.

Dr Chris Ray is High Master of The Manchester Grammar School and chairman of the Headmasters and Headmistresses’ Conference.

For more information visit... www.independentschoolparent.com

SUMMER 2013 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL PARENT 25

One of the world’s top 100 universities for the arts and humanities

Goldsmiths www.gold.ac.uk

QS World University Rankings 2012

Small campus community where students have personal contact with leading academics

Subjects include social sciences, computing and management

FAST TRACK

isg_goldsmiths_may13.indd 1

careers

20/05/2013 10:52

so you don’t want to go to university? a successful executive assistant suggests a plan B...

“I

Andrea Freeman, Principal, Oxford Media & Business School

don’t want to go to university!” As soon as I said those words out loud I felt like a huge weight had been lifted from my shoulders. My parents were fantastic and respected my decision. Of course, they wanted to know why, and I found that really hard to answer. It wasn’t that I was scared of leaving home. To be honest, that was the only positive reason to the whole thing! Don’t get me wrong, I love my home life, but the thought of standing on my own two feet was appealing. I just didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life and the

thought of studying for three more years and incurring huge debts, was worrying.

So, time for a “Plan B”. My mother had attended a secretarial course when she’d left school, and suggested that it might be a good idea for me. A search of the internet threw up Oxford Media & Business School.

My mother was amazed at how the role of the secretary had changed since her day.

Today’s secretary is known as an Executive or Personal Assistant and is expected to make a significant contribution to a company from day one. The OMBS website explained this in great detail and has lots of testimonials from past students and tributes from employers and recruitment agencies that have employed OMBS graduates. So we made an appointment to meet with the Principal, Andrea Freeman.

I was a bag of nerves travelling to Oxford on the day of my interview. I could not believe that I might possibly be accepted for the course.

Me: a budding Personal Assistant, sitting at the right hand of a corporate executive?

But as soon as we walked into the building, my fears were put aside: it felt like it was meant to be. The place was buzzing with people and the atmosphere was calm and

happy. Andrea wanted to know all about me; what my strengths and weaknesses were – my hobbies and interests – and she didn’t seem the least bit phased by the fact that I wasn’t quite sure as to what I wanted to do with the rest of my life.

She took us on a tour of the building and Andrea knew each of the students by name and would talk to them about job interviews, or congratulate them on a recent achievement.

We talked to her about the kind of job that I could get when the course finished. She was very honest. At 18 years-old, and with no real work experience, I would start work at a receptionist/junior PA level, but she had many examples of how her ex-students had advanced quickly once they had proved themselves.

Now, three years later, my old school friends have just graduated and are looking for work. I have been working for the Chief Executive of a financial PR company. My job is so exciting that if you had told me three years ago that I would be doing this, and earning such good money, I would have laughed at you. But now I have a perfect CV and skills for life, I would feel confident about applying for any job.

OxfOrd Media & Business schOOl

5 Cambridge Terrace, Oxford, OX1 1UP. 01865 240963 www.oxfordbusiness.co.uk OBSAdvertorial.indd 34

26 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ParENT sUMMER 2013

1/3/13 13:36:48

www.independentschoolparent.com

COMMENT

It’s never too early to prepare James Brittain, Head of Higher Education & Careers at Millfield School, Somerset, looks at how to write a CV while still at school

F

or young people, tackling a CV while still at school must seem to be an unnecessarily premature and arduous task. Why would you wish to bring on the world of work, with its fuss over pay, promotion, mortgages and pensions when they are such alien concepts, inextricably linked to the world of adults? And what right do parents and teachers have to wish away those precious last years of childhood?

Furthermore, most young people find it painfully difficult to write about themselves; not only do they believe they have little of relevance to offer, but they are also acutely aware of the need to present their skills and achievements effectively, without coming across as an obnoxious show-off.

While recognising these challenges, it is important that pupils develop a draft CV and covering letter while at school, and

have it saved electronically. The supportive environment of school is the best place to start the process, preferably during Year 10 and 11, with teachers that know the pupil well and can give some constructive feedback.

Schools can also provide mock interviews, which are a useful road test for any CV, as they highlight both its strengths and weaknesses. During this whole process, pupils of any age will start thinking about the gaps they have in their knowledge, skills and experience, and can set targets for achievement such as getting involved in team sports, public speaking or joining a club.

Presenting yourself effectively in

❝ Most young people find it painfully

difficult to write about themselves❞

HOW TO WRITE A PERFECT CV The basic function of a CV is to persuade an employer to offer you an interview, or at the very least an informal chat. Here are some simple tips: ÞChoose your layout. There is an overwhelming plethora of CV formats recommended on the internet; a good start would be the book How to Get a Job you’ll Love by John Lees, the British careers coach.

For pupils at school, a CV should be maximum one-page long. ÞCheck the job advert or needs of the employer. Young people will have diverse interests or ambitions, particularly while still at school, so CVs will need tailoring to each job or interview application before submission. To make a start, look at the job descriptions on recruitment websites, such as reed.co.uk. ÞKeep records of your achievements, abilities and interests,

www.independentschoolparent.com

which might suit different jobs.

First team hockey might be something to highlight in an application for work at a gym; similarly a fundraising event or a visit to a retirement home when asking to shadow a medic, or an involvement in Young Enterprise or DofE for a business relying on teamwork. ÞSelectively ask for advice. This should be from a few people you trust. A CV that has had too much imput can lose its personal touch. ÞCheck and double check. Do not rely on spellcheck. Review your CV for spelling and grammar errors, a mistyped email address, phone number or wrong date.

What’s your view? Discuss on Twitter... @ISParent

writing is a key skill that becomes essential when creating a personal statement for applications to college or university. Being armed with a preprepared CV also makes it easier to take advantage of any networking opportunities for informational interviews – a term coined by Richard Bolles in his book What Color is your Parachute?, meaning informal chats with an adult in employment.

It should also be emphasised that young peoples’ initial job search can be an exciting time of life. There is no national minimum wage for the under 16s, and most short term placements are unpaid, flexible tasters of the world of work.

However, with youth unemployment at a record high, it is crucial that this starts at an early stage.

For more information visit... www.independentschoolparent.com

SUMMER 2013 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL PARENT 27

Make Make Make Make the the the grade the grade grade grade atatA atat Alevel Alevel Alevel level

At CIFE At CIFE At we’re At CIFE At CIFE we’re not CIFE we’re we’re just not we’re just about not notnot just about just getting just about about getting about the getting getting getting right the right the the grades the right right grades right or grades grades getting grades or getting or or getting getting or getting you you intoyou into you theyou into best into theinto best the the university. the best best university. best university. university.

We’re university.

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That’s individual.

That’s why That’s That’s why our That’s why why 2-year ourwhy 2-year our ourA our 2-year 2-year level A 2-year level courses A A level level A courses level courses courses courses havehave so have much have sohave much so so choice much so much choice much and choice choice and choice flexibility and flexibility andand flexibility flexibility built flexibility built in. In built built in.fact built Inin. in. fact it’s In In in.what fact fact it’s In fact what it’s it’s ourit’s what what our what our ourour association association association association association of highly of highly of of accredited highly highly ofaccredited highly accredited accredited independent accredited independent independent independent independent sixthsixth form sixth sixth form colleges sixth form form colleges form colleges colleges colleges is allisabout. allis isabout. all all isYes, about. about. all Yes, about. we’llYes, Yes, we’ll help Yes, we’ll we’ll help you we’ll help help you meet help you meet you others’ you meet meet others’ meet standards others’ others’ others’ standards standards standards –standards but– fulfil but–– fulfil but but – but fulfil fulfil fulfil youryour own your your own promise your own own promise own promise promise too. promise too. too. too.too.

To discover To discover To To discover To discover how discover how CIFE how how CIFE can how CIFE CIFE can enable CIFE can enable cancan you enable enable enable you to achieve you you to you achieve to to achieve your achieve to achieve your fullyour your full your full fullfull potential, potential, potential, potential, call potential, call call call 020call 020 8767 020 020 8767 020 8666 8767 8767 8666 8767 or 8666 8666 visit or 8666 visit www.cife.org.uk or or visit or visit www.cife.org.uk visit www.cife.org.uk www.cife.org.uk www.cife.org.uk

i i ii LIVERPOOL HOPE UNIVERSITY OPEN DAY: WEDNESDAY 26th JUNE YOUR FUTURE STARTS WITH HOPE 0151 291 3111 hope.ac.uk

28 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ParENT sUMMER 2013

www.independentschoolparent.com

SIXTH FORM

Decisions, Decisions Preparing for sixth form can be easy if you make sure you consider all your options, writes James Wardrobe

A

lmost every summer term from the end of Year 9, pupils in UK schools have to make important decisions about their future, whether it be about their choice of GCSEs, their A-level subjects or their possible university courses. Those completing their GCSEs have arguably the most significant decisions to make: What A levels shall I choose? Shall I stay at school to do them?

How best can I prepare for Sixth Form?

As John Southworth, Principal of Lansdowne College, emphasises: “You have to be prepared for the ‘jump’ between GCSE and A levels, and realise that A levels require much more independence and initiative from the student.”

There are over 40 subjects examined at A level, and even though it’s unlikely that your sixth form offers that many, you should still have plenty of choice. Here are the three key principles to guide you in choosing your A-level subjects:

your choices don’t rule out degrees you’re interested in.

Take time to find out all you need to know

❝ You have to be prepared

for the ‘jump’ between GCSE and A levels, and realise that A levels require Choose subjects you much more independence ❞ will enjoy

If you do not enjoy studying a subject, it is demoralising and it will be difficult to succeed. In the sixth form, you want to be stimulated and if you enjoy the work you will probably get a good grade in the exam.

Joel Roderick, Academic Registrar of Oxford Tutorial College, puts it succinctly: “Grades are usually more important than subjects, so it’s best to study what you will really enjoy and excel at rather than subjects you think universities will be impressed by.”

To enjoy a subject, consider two factors: the content of the subject and the skills it requires. You should have a real interest in the content, but you should also be confident that you have or can develop the skills that it requires. The way a subject is assessed might also be important to you, so this should be considered.

It is also important to review subjects www.independentschoolparent.com

you are familiar with – they are likely to change significantly as you move from GCSE to A level.

Choose subjects which will fit in with your career plans If you have clear ideas about what you want to study at university, you should check whether you require specific subjects. You can find full details on the UCAS website.

Your school should be able to provide careers advice if you need to clarify your long-term plans before choosing A-level subjects, but you don’t have to nail that down before making choices. Keeping options open is a good idea, but check that

It is sometimes possible to arrange courses outside school to complete subjects which your school can't offer

What’s your view? Discuss on Twitter... @ISParent

Consider the full range of subjects available at A level by checking the main exam board websites. It is sometimes possible to arrange courses outside school to complete subjects which your school cannot offer.

It is important to make time to think and to talk to people, and even time to change your mind if necessary. However, while other people might have good advice and opinions worth considering, remember that this is your choice: you are the person who will be doing the work, and it’s your future that A levels decide.

Another important point to consider is that your GCSE results may affect your subject choice. They provide an important guide to how well you are likely to cope with particular subjects, and they may impact on the number of AS levels it is sensible to take on. If your GCSE predictions show that you will have trouble meeting requirements you should have a Plan B, just in case.

Finally, even if you are going to stay at your present school, visit other schools and sixth form colleges to see what they do and how. There may be alternatives that you hadn’t considered, and you can receive advice that you otherwise wouldn’t have necessarily received.

The Council for Independent Education website (cife.org.uk) has useful articles about sixth form choices and university entrance. As much as anything else, the process of investigation should serve to energise you and clear your thinking – which in itself is excellent preparation for your life as a sixth former.

For more information visit... www.independentschoolparent.com

SUMMER 2013 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL PARENT 29

Forget the myths about Sheffield.

Get the facts.

Sheffield is England’s greenest city1. A third of it is inside the Peak District National Park.

Eighty-five per cent of our student accommodation is in one of the UK’s most affluent residential areas. A new survey2 shows Sheffield is England's most peaceful urban area.

We encourage our students to push themselves: to carry out their own research, to develop their own ideas. Sheffield graduates are independent thinkers with a strong sense of social responsibility – something we place at the heart of everything we do.

Sheffield is home to one of the most influential research universities3 in the prestigious Russell Group. Our degree courses are taught by the people who do the field work, make the discoveries and write the textbooks.

If you’d like to learn more about Sheffield, register with us to get regular updates:

www.sheffield.ac.uk/schools/ information-form

It’s a cosmopolitan campus. Our staff and students come from around 130 countries.

There are opportunities to learn a language and spend time overseas.

1. Marketing Sheffield 2. UK Peace Index 2013 3. One of the top ten Russell Group universities in the last Research Assessment Exercise (2008).

St Benedict’s, Ealing

Youth Music Theatre UK is the national music theatre company for young people

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Teaching a way of living

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• The school offers an excellent and broadly based academic curriculum, supported by an excellent programme of extra-curricular activities.

• The pupils’ personal development is excellent and their spiritual, moral, social and cultural development is outstanding.

• The school provides a family atmosphere in which pupils feel safe, included, secure, well known and valued.

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SCHOLARSHIPS AND BURSARIES IN SENIOR SCHOOL T: 020 8862 2054 (3-11) 020 8862 2254 (11-18) E: enquiries@stbenedicts.org.uk W: www.stbenedicts.org.uk We respect the dignity of all and welcome students of other faiths.

30 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ParENT sUMMER 2013

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LIFE

Mottoes for life Discover the hidden histories behind the words...

Wellington College, Berkshire Motto: Virtutis Fortuna Comes – Good Fortune is the Companion of Courage: Fortune Favours the Brave Origin: It is the motto of the first Duke of Wellington, and his descendants: appropriate indeed for one of England’s greatest generals.

Boaters and chess at Harrow School, Middlesex (top), school crest at St Lawrence College, Kent (middle), graffiti at Eton College, Windsor (bottom)

Roedean, Sussex Motto: Honneur aulx Dignes – Honour the Worthy Author: Sir John Simpson, the famous Victorian architect who designed the school, along with other landmarks such as the original Wembley stadium, Kelvingrove Art Museum and parts of Lancing, Haileybury and Gresham’s.

Fact: The motto is not Latin but ancient French.

When said quickly with a French accent it sounds like Honour Roedean – a classic Victorian pun!

Loretto School, Edinburgh Motto: Spartam nactus es, hanc exorna. Over the years the meaning has moved between the literal translation: Sparta is Yours: Adorn It, and the more general, You Were Born With Talents: Develop Them.

Author: Euripides Origin: A mistranslation of a line from a play by Euripides and originally written in Ancient Greek.

Only a fragment of the play survives; translated by the Renaissance scholar Erasmus in the 16th century and since then this one quotation has developed a life of its own!

Fact: At the end of the 18th century the saying was used by Edmund Burke MP in an essay attacking the French Revolution.

Bedales School, Hampshire Motto: Work of Each for Weal of All Origin: Source unknown, but it has links to the ethos of early socialist movement. The Socialist League, founded by William Morris and others, had a journal named The Commonweal c.

1885-1895. The motto “There is no weal save the commonweal” was associated with the early days of the Independent Labour Party.

Charterhouse School, Surrey Motto: Deo Dante Dedi – God having given, I give Author: Founder, Thomas Sutton, a successful civil servant and entrepreneur during the reigns of Elizabeth I and James I. Origin: Sutton bought the old Carthusian monastery near Smithfield in London to house his foundation. The motto may have been borrowed

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from the monastic order, as Deo Dante is still a phrase commonly used by modern Carthusian monks before starting any significant task.

Ackwith School, West Yorkshire Motto: Non Sibi Sed Omnibus – Not for Oneself but for Everybody Origin: The motto first appeared on the bedroom sports trophy, presented by the masters in the 1890s. It was formally adopted that year at the suggestion of Frederick Andrews, Head, who hoped that it might be “an inspiration to the boys and girls…not to live for themselves but to Him.” Scarborough College, North Yorkshire Motto: Pensez Fort – Think Hard or Strong-minded Origin: Originally there was an “e” on the end of Fort that caused some confusion: it was not known whether the motto originated from French or Latin, and no one could deny that there was possibly some old form of Anglo-French in the spelling, so the “e” was dropped! Simple.

St. Mary’s School, Gerrards Cross Motto: Ecce Ancilla Domini – Behold the Handmaiden of the Lord Origin: It is a quotation from the first chapter of the Gospel of Saint Luke, describing the Annunciation, where Mary accepts the message brought to her by the Angel Gabriel that she would give birth to a child (Jesus) by God. Fact: It is also the title of a famous painting by Dante Gabriel Rosetti, now hanging in the Tate Britain in London.

Queenswood School, Hertfordshire Motto: In Hortis Reginae – In the Gardens of the Queen Origin: Taken from a lecture entitled “Of the Queen’s Gardens” on the ideal of womanhood and the education of girls, which was delivered by John Ruskin in 1864.

St Bees School, Cumbria Motto: Ingredere ut Proficias – Enter So That You May Progress Origin: The founder was Archbishop Edmund Grindal, Archbishop of Canterbury to Queen Elizabeth I. He died just three days after he published statutes for the ordering and government of the school in 1583.

Fact: The motto still sits, inscribed in sandstone, above the front door of the Elizabethan dining room – the original classroom. autumn summer2012 2013INDEPENDENT INDEPENDENTSCHOOL SCHOOLParENT ParENTXX 31

Warrior or worrier?

A new book examines how children cope differently in stressful and competitive situations, writes Charlotte Phillips

The pressure’s on With

the

right

amount,

we

hit

pressure

points

with

just

enough

get

up

and

go

(or,

in

the

case

of

exams,

sit

down

and

write)

to

do

ourselves

justice.

Around

25%

of

people

–

the

warriors

–

are

naturally

blessed

with

a

hard

working

form

of

the

COMT

gene.

Like

a

crack team of cleaners, it clears out excess dopamine

quickly

and

effi

ciently.

Another

25%

–

the

worriers

–

have

a

slower,

lazier

version.

Stopping

frequently

for

what

you’d

imagine

is

the

enzyme’s

equivalent

of

a

fag

and

coff

ee,

it

leaves

loads

of

the

stuff

swilling

about,

making

the

worriers

feel

over-stressed

and

panicky

–

not

the

feeling

you

want

when

you’re

just

about

to

sit

a

vital

exam

or

take

a

driving

test.

It’s down to evolution It’s

down,

as

these

things

often

are,

to

evolution.

When

early

man

wanted

someone to do something quickly about that

sabre

toothed

tiger,

a

warrior

was

your

man.

Worriers,

on

the

other

hand,

were

the

deep

thinkers

who

could

be

relied

on

to

maximise their group’s long-term chances of

survival

by

thinking

ahead.

While sabre toothed tigers may be thin on the ground these days, it’s a description that

will

strike

a

chord

with

many

parents.

Take

Tracy

Mellors*

who

has

a

son

and

older

daughter,

both

at

selective

schools.

GCSES

and

A

levels

are

looming,

desks

strewn

with

cue

cards,

while

over-stuff

ed

fi

les

spill

their

contents

on

to

the

dinner

table.

Her

off

spring

mutter

dates

as

they

clean their teeth; test each other on narrative

techniques

at

tea

time

and

are

past

masters

in

the

art

of

paring

down

a

whole

text

book

to

a

brief

summary.

Where

they

diff

er

is

in

how

they

cope

on

the

day.

While

her

daughter

wouldn’t

go

as

XXINDEPENDENT 32 INDEPENDENTSCHOOL SCHOOLPARENT PARENT SUMMER AUTUMN2013 2012

IMAGES: CORBIS

P

icture the scene: the mother to be, the tense but happy partner and the consultant

obstetrician’s

fi

rst

words.

“It’s

twins,

Mr

and

Mrs

Smith.

And

they’re

both

going

to

be

worriers.”

Yes,

just

when

you thought parents had enough to think about

when

it

comes

to

bringing

up

their

kids,

there’s

another

new

conundrum

to

add

to

the

pile.

It comes courtesy of Top Dog: The Science or Winning or Losing, an engagingly-written

new

book

by

bestselling

US

authors

Po

Bronson

and

Ashley

Merryman

who

have

sifted

through

hundreds

of

scientifi

c

studies

to

bring us the latest thinking on competition and

stress.

Some

of

us

are

warriors,

they

say,

who

are good at all or nothing high stakes situations

like

exams,

when

doing

well

on

the

day

is

all

that

counts.

Others,

the

worriers,

can

crumble

under

pressure.

It’s

all

down,

apparently,

to

our

genes

–

specifi

cally,

to

one

little

gene,

snappily

entitled

COMT,

an

industrious

little

beast

with

the

vital

role

of

clearing

up

dopamine,

the chemical that lights up our brain’s reward

centre

like

a

Christmas

tree

(and

can

be

triggered

by

a

whole

range

of

treats,

including

alcohol

–

one

of

the

reasons

that

that

your

fi

rst

glass

of

wine

of

the

day

is

so

pleasurable).

It’s

also

implicated

in

ADHD.

“Warrior” children relish the challenge of a competitive, situation, whereas the “worriers” (overleaf) tend to struggle

www.independentschoolparent.com

IPSUM LIFE

It’s as if she feels she’s preparing to go into battle, with the whole world watching – and is looking forward to it ❞ ❝

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LIFE

Doing well on the day is all that counts. Others, the worriers, can crumble under pressure ❞

❝

far as saying she enjoyed the exams Tracy has noticed a certain gladiatorial spring to her step as the trials approach.

“She seems to walk taller,” she says. “It’s as if she feels she’s preparing to go into battle, with the whole world watching – and is looking forward to it.”

With her son, however, it’s a very different matter. Though the more academic of the two, whose natural home is towards the top of the top set, he finds the stress far harder to deal with. As a result, his sister, staying cool, calm and collected in the exam hall, often does much better than predicted. He, meanwhile, can struggle to remember to put his own name at the top of the paper, let alone muster the information into a coherent, well-argued essay.

Too slick to be true?

Warriors and worriers may sound just a little too slick to be true. Families in Taiwan, however, could tell you otherwise.

There, children in the ninth grade sit an exam competitive enough to make your eyes bleed. Pass it and you go on to senior school. Fail, as six out of ten do, and your formal education is finished. Researchers there found by unscrambling the genetic code of 800 students sitting the exam, warriors have the competitive edge, scoring about eight per cent higher than the worrier contingent.

So what difference does all this actually make when it comes to your own child’s future prospects? On balance, think the experts, not that much, which should come as a relief to any parent terrified that their genetic inheritance has given their child something else to blame them for.

For a start, schools, staffed as they are with clever people who understand children, have known that their pupils cope differently with stress for many years and – surprise, surprise – are really rather good at coming up with solutions for the problem.

“Do we see these different types?

Absolutely, yes,” says Mark Bishop, headmaster of Trinity School in South London. However, he adds reassuringly, “both school and home can do a huge amount to mitigate against any genetic predisposition to stress.”

The book’s authors talk about stress www.independentschoolparent.com

Helping children to understand why they’re feeling the way they do and what thoughts and feelings lie behind it is vital

inoculation, where over time, repeated exposure to anxiety-triggering events can make them less fearful. While Mark Bishop agrees, he also feels that helping children to understand why they’re feeling the way they do and what thoughts and feelings lie behind it is vital. So committed is he to the whole issue of mental wellbeing that the subject has recently been added to the curriculum.

It’s not clear cut And, as Jo Heywood, headmistress at Heathfield School, Ascot, and a scientist with a degree in medicinal chemistry points out, while the concept of warriors and worriers is “really interesting, it’s not as clear cut as that and I think it’s wrong to even to consider that it is.”

Her pupils agree, to the point where they have come up with their own third category – waverers.

“If we are about to sit an exam that has a finite amount of information to learn and we’ve learned it and we’re feeling great about our learning, then we’ll go in there and we’ll be like warriors. But when it’s a subject where there’s not a finite amount of information to learn such as languages where you can keep learning and find more words and vocabulary, we tend to be worriers because it’s harder to know if we have done enough,” say the girls.

Revision all the way Her advice is that pupils revise so thoroughly that the information is etched on pupils’ long-term memory.

Unlike its short-term equivalent, as anyone whose mind has gone completely blank under stress can testify, it tends to hold up better under stress than its short term equivalent.

As to how much time it’s worth spending on deciding how you’d tackle a sabre-toothed tiger; not much, is the advice – or at least, not yet. “The neuropsychology and biochemistry of learning and related academic achievement is at a very early stage and research in this area must be viewed with scepticism,” says chartered psychologist Dr Kairen Cullen.

And of course there’s a practical issue, too. One day, no doubt, every good school will offer genetic profiling along with cello lessons and golf as standard extras. Until then, deciding whether we’re warriors, worriers or, courtesy of the girls at Heathfield School, waverers, is just one more thing to worry about.

Top Dog: The Science of Winning or Losing by Po Bronson and Ashley Merryman is published

by Ebury Press and is priced at £20.00.

Summer 2013 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ParENT 35

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For further information please visit www.dundee.ac.uk/undergraduate * Times Higher Education 2012

36 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ParENT sUMMER 2013

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Universities

First impressions Charlotte Phillips navigates the university open day

It’s so slick it’s like pyramid selling,” says a south west London mother who is just coming to the end of the latest round of university open days with her daughter. “All I can compare it to is the time we looked at a timeshare in Florida – it was as good as that.”

Forget dreaming spires and cloistered, unworldly academics so inseparable from their mortar boards they probably wear them in bed. As tuition fees have shot northwards, higher education institutions have woken up to the fact that while would-be undergraduates may still look and sound like the same shambling, idle and often hungover riffraff they’ve always been, they’ve also evolved, courtesy of the student loans scheme, into that most desirable of all commodities – cash buyers.

As such, they need to be wooed. And while school tours are recognisably the same beast as a generation ago, university

❝ As

open days have undergone a transformation that makes Cinderella’s pumpkin to coach effort look like an exercise in restraint.

Tweed jackets, avuncular chats and poorly photocopied hand outs are so over.

In their place are events glitzy enough to turn any campus, however windswept the walkways or brutalist the architecture, from tumbleweed turnoff to Disneyland paradise – temporarily, at least.

Of course, not every department feels the need to reach out to potential students like needy Labrador puppies and urge them to feel the love. When it comes to the most over-subscribed subjects headed, inevitably, by medicine, there can be a distinct noli me tangere attitude that borders on the sadistic.

“We were told they’d need three As, minimum. That was fine, we expected that. Then they said they’d need Duke of

tuition fees have shot northwards, higher education institutions have woken up ❞ www.independentschoolparent.com

Above, the University of st Andrew’s, Fife, scotland

Edinburgh Gold and a minimum of six months working in a related area which was fair enough. Then they said everyone needed to play a musical instrument as well,” says one outraged mother whose son, now a second year medical student, went to a Surrey independent co-ed. “I stood up and asked if donating a kidney would secure him a place. It was ridiculous.”

But for the most part, presentations are polished, media invariably multi and goody bags bulge with freebies. Even the tiniest of details aren’t neglected. At one east of England college, uniformed attendants are on hand to help you park your car; at Liverpool, they even lay on coach tours of the city.

Student guides, too, have had a Jack Wills-style makeover. These days, they’re all gorgeous, pouting specimens largely, though not exclusively, female and dressed, if not to kill, at least to distract.

“The girls were wearing these incredibly tight T-shirts saying ‘Here to help’. It was like a Club 18–30 holiday,” says one stunned mother. “I don’t think my son looked at anything else for the entire visit.”

Bring out the heavy marketing guns, add crowds of hundreds, half of them still in

Summer 2013 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ParENT 37

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38 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ParENT sUMMER 2013

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UNIVERSITIES

❝ Bear

in mind that it’s the surroundings and atmosphere that will make or break the experience ❞ their teens, and it’s not surprising that the mood, at times, can be akin to a session with a leading evangelical preacher. Just as well students aren’t required to sign up then and there because they probably would, and in their own blood.

It’s at times like that this that the parents

are

needed.

Now

a

fixture

on

the

university trawling circuit – around 50% of sixth formers bring at least one along and some make it family occasions with grannies and aunties in tow.

Universities are fully aware of the need to boost parent appeal. Many these days arrange

separate

briefings.

Most,

unexceptionally, cover dull but essential topics like proximity to shops, medical centres and buses, and exactly how all those student loans are going to be repaid, together with a low down on their ability to enhance future employment prospects by helping to arrange internships and work placements.

Others, meanwhile, can stray into too

Undergraduates have evolved into the most desirable of commoditiescash buyers

TOP TIPS ON OPEN DAYS ÞAccept that you and your child may have very different ideas on the ideal university. A small county town might be your dream location but to your child, in search of somewhere with urban clout, it could be more like living death. ÞDo check out halls of residence – some have bizarre arrangements. One combines bang up-to-date design with catering arrangements that date back to the 1950s: last serving for dinner, for example, is 6.30 pm – fine if you plan nothing more daring than a brisk post-prandial walk and early bed, disconcerting as a student newbie if you’re confronted with a yawningly empty evening that stretches away with no possibility of refreshment

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ÞDo take notes – a quick summary of top likes and dislikes on your way home will stand you in good stead when all those presentations have merged into one. ÞDo cut out the bells and whistles by finding “ordinary” students to talk to, rather than the hand-picked guides.

Felsted School, for example, is launching its own network to put sixth formers in touch with old boys and girls at universities. ÞDo take account of subjective factors.

Something as simple as the weather can significantly change your perceptions.

“Was itraining when you visited?” says Simon Armitage. “People are very influenced by whether it was a sunny day or not.”

much information territory. One tour guide, keen to ensure that parents missed nothing in the halls of residence, opened up the cupboard doors in the kitchen to reveal litre upon litre of value vodka.

“Alcohol’s really cheap here,” she intoned excitedly, mistaking the older generation’s expressions of horror for wistful envy.

Dr

Paul

Redmond,

head

of

careers

and

employability at the University of Liverpool and author of A Parent’s Guide to the Graduate Job Market, came up with

the

term

helicopter

parent.

Perhaps

surprisingly, he doesn’t see the increased numbers of mums and dads turning up with

their

offspring

as

a

sign

of

overprotectiveness

but

a

reflection

of

better

family relationships.

“Baby boomers and generation Y… identify with each other much more closely than previous generations. They’re happy to be with each other at our open days – it’s a nice generational shift,” he says.

And the truth is that even in families where parents are a burden and embarrassment

to

their

offspring,

they

have

two

significant

advantages

when

it

comes to university open days: access to a car (essential for reaching the more remote outposts of the country’s higher education system) and, even more importantly, experience.

“My daughter was totally taken in by it all because they sold it so well but I thought ‘you’re going to be bored out of your brain’,” says a London mother, of a razzmatazz-heavy session at an isolated teacher training centre. “It wasn’t till I got

her to think about what it would be like in December,

miles

from

anywhere

and

with

almost no one around that she started to realise the disadvantages.”

So by all means ask in forensic detail about exactly how the course is structured but bear in mind that it’s the surroundings and atmosphere that will make or break the experience.

“We do talk about what to look for and try to say it is more about the subject than the place but of course we know that for many it is probably the other way around – or at least partly,” says Simon Armitage, director

of

sixth

form

at

the

Stephen

Perse

Foundation in Cambridge.

Future medical student Sophy was ultimately sold on her preferred campus not by the course, impressive though it was, but the grounds. “From the campus, you could see this really quiet area with a massive lake if you wanted to escape.”

And it’s those just-glimpsed details and behind-the-scenes moments miles away from the polished corporate presentations that will tell that you’ve found a place where

you

can

feel

at

home,

confirms

Nicholas Spring, Head of Careers at Felsted School, Essex.

“If it’s the right course but in an unsympathetic setting, I think it is going to

be

difficult

for

an

18

year-old.

Their

actual success is going to be determined by how happy they are, and their happiness is going to be determined by their environment.”

For more information visit... www.independentschoolparent.com

SUMMER 2013 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL PARENT 39

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40 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ParENT sUMMER 2013

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COMMENT

Happy families Giulia Rhodes asks: how do you keep step-children and step-siblings happy on holiday?

A

s the hectic whirl of revision, exams, sports days and end-of-term concerts subsides, the prospect of summer holidays – rest, family time, and hopefully some sunshine – is a welcome one.

Of course, family life doesn’t always follow the rose-tinted plan though.

Fractious toddlers, sulky teenagers, work commitments, even the weather can all get in the way of the perfect holiday.

Increasingly too the complexities, both logistical and emotional, of step-family life can threaten to derail the holiday you may have been dreaming about all winter. One in three people in the UK is now part of a step-family. So how do step parents ensure the whole family has a happy holiday?

The first rule, says Dr Lisa Doodson, family psychologist, author of How to Be a Happy Stepmum and founder of Happy Steps, a coaching and counselling service for step parents, is to make realistic plans.

“We often have high expectations of holidays and feel very disappointed if they are not met. There may be arguments, people may want different things. This is the case in all families. Not everything comes down to being a step-family.”

Planning some activities, and if you are

❝ There may well be

arguments, but this is the case in all families ❞ Children are worked hard at school and, like parents, they need a rest

TOP TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL STEP-FAMILY HOLIDAYS: ÞDon’t put everything down to being a step family. ÞAccept that you cannot force loving relationships – but you can insist on respect, politeness and kindness. ÞMake sure everyone has a voice and feels welcome. Allow everyone some say in summer plans. ÞPresent a united front with your partner on discipline and behaviour boundaries. Treat arguments between step-siblings objectively. ÞDon’t fill every moment with activities.

Try to enjoy being together and keeping in touch with each other’s lives.

www.independentschoolparent.com

What’s your view? Discuss on Twitter... @ISParent

lucky enough, a holiday, is great, but it is also crucial not to over-schedule children.

If step-children are not permanently resident there may be a temptation to cram a summer’s worth of experiences into two weeks. A recipe, says Doodson, for exhaustion. “Children are worked very hard at school. Like parents, they need a rest. Talk to each other about what you would all like. In a step-family, giving everyone a voice is a powerful way of making everyone feel part of things.

Step-children often feel out of control and are in a situation they probably didn’t choose to be in. Giving everyone the chance to suggest one thing they would like to do could help resolve issues.

Yet while this may sometimes necessitate dividing the family up, spending time together is important.

“Holidays can be a great opportunity to develop bonds with your step-children and between step-siblings,” says Doodson.

For many step-parents, holidays are a

source of considerable anxiety. “I was so nervous about spending two weeks with the children out of our normal routine,” explains Katy, step mother to a 14-year-old boy and a 13-year-old girl. “My husband wanted everything to be perfect for them.

We ended up having a really difficult discussion but I understood better how much he missed day-to-day life with them, and he realised that I felt out of my depth rather than uninterested. Actually, having the children for a proper chunk of time allowed me to get to know them better.”

In Katy’s case, a holiday changed things for the better, but it is important not to expect too much. Caroline, a mother of two boys aged 7 and 11, holidayed with her partner and his two children last year.

“Two weeks in a tent in rural France was too intense. We realised that our expectations were quite different. I felt he was always telling my two off and he felt I was spoiling them and neglecting his children. There was no escape and it very nearly split us up.”

This year the family are holidaying for one week in a resort with a variety of activities to keep the children busy and to allow everyone more space.

For more information visit... www.independentschoolparent.com

SUMMER 2013 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL PARENT 41

BRIGHT

YOUNGTHINGS Up-and-coming stars from the independent school sector, by Josephine Price Danielle Harwarden, 23

Hannah Webb, 22

BOlTON SCHOOl, laNCaSHIRe

UwC aTlaNTIC COlleGe, SOUTH GlamORGaN

Pilot,

Some people are born to fly, and Danielle Harwarden is looking beyond the skies as she joins the race to get into space. Inspired by work experience at NASA in Houston, Texas, Danielle has now entered the Lynx competition to send a Briton into space. She is currently placed at around 200 out of thousands of people, and is a strong contender in the male-dominated competition.

During her studies at the University of Sheffield Danielle was a member of the Yorkshire Universitities’ Air Squadron where she learnt to fly and undertook many adventurous training and leadership exercises. In her third year of university she was promoted to Deputy Senior Student with the rank of Acting Pilot Officer. The fact that Bolton School is a girls’ school helped Danielle: “We were encouraged to study what we enjoyed and there was no emphasis on traditionally ‘male’ or ‘female’ subjects.”

Ultimate Frisbee competitor, Ultimate Frisbee is an up-and-coming sport, which features a childhood-favourite toy and often involves some spectacular dives! a brief encounter with a Norwegian classmate’s Frisbee in 2006 ignited an intense enthusiasm in Hannah who has been dedicated about the sport ever since. at university, Hannah joined the Frisbee team and in 2012, she trialled for the GB under 23s team and was selected to play Ultimate Frisbee in Toronto at the world Championships.

alasdair Blackwell, 26

Entrepreneur,

amPleFORTH COlleGe, NORTH YORkSHIRe after years as a sought-after web developer, alasdair teamed up with fellow industry gurus to found Decoded. The coding company has a simple promise: to teach anyone to code in a day. at school he was never taught to code and so took it upon himself to learn by building websites for the theatre society at Nottingham University. His experience ignited his passion about the need to teach code in schools, and he has spoken far and wide on the topic, in the national press and at TeDxObserver. Decoded is now branching out around the world and providing the support and training needed to embed coding across the curriculum.

Joe Launchbury, 22

Rugby player,

CHRIST’S HOSPITal, weST SUSSex From joining London Wasps in his gap year to playing in the recent Six Nations for England, Joe has had a successful few years on the rugby pitch. Sport was a major focus for him at school and has remained a passion to this day. Joe won Aviva’s Player of the Month in November with the Wasps and was voted England’s Player of the Series for the Autumn Internationals. He gained his first cap with England in 2012 and he now has 9 England caps and he remains top of his game and proud to be so: “To represent your country in a packed Twickenham stadium is the dream of every rugby player and I feel honoured and humbled.”

42 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ParENT Summer 2013

www.independentschoolparent.com

SCHOOL’S OUT

Sarah Brook, 23

Founder of Sparkle Malawi charity, FELSTED SCHOOL, ESSEX A gap year in Africa inspired Felsted pupil, Sarah Brook, to found her own charity, Sparkle Malawi, during her time at university.

She was moved by the scenes she experienced during her time in Malawi and wanted to help the orphans she encountered there. During her studies at Exeter university, Sarah created a programme to care for a group of 250 street orphans and recruited a board of trustees to oversee the project. Sparkle Malawi opened in 2012 and now cares for 164 children between the ages of 0-7. Ninety five per cent of these children suffer from HIV, so Sarah’s next plans are to provide monthly visits from a doctor who will deliver lifesaving vaccinations.

George Blagden,

Actor,

OUNDLE SCHOOL, NORTHAMPTONSHIRE

Oundle pupil, George Blagden, left school at 18 to train as an actor at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama, whose glittering alumni include Daniel Craig, Orlando Bloom and Ewan McGregor. The comprehensive training he received there, encompassing everything from Shakespeare to Restoration comedy, paid off as he most recently starred in the award-winning film adaptation of Les Misérables as Grantaire, as part of the ABC revolutionary student club alongside Eddie Redmayne.

Les Misérables is now simply one to add to the impressive list of films he has appeared in, such as Wrath of the Titans and The Philosophers. www.independentschoolparent.com

For more information visit... www.independentschoolparent.com

SUMMER 2013 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL PARENT 43

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44 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ParENT sUMMER 2013

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www.independentschoolparent.com

SCHOOL HEROES

MEET THE...

Music Director

Peter Davis, Director of Music at Oakham School, Rutland, champions choirs, composing and concerts for all his pupils

H

eroes often gain their name for their outstanding achievements, and I’m always called our school hero because of the musical accomplishments of a generation of pupils during my time as Director of Music at Oakham School, Rutland. In my opinion it is the Oakham pupils who are the real stars.

The school’s Chamber Choir is representative of this success, with an exceptional track record: winning the MACC Youth Choir competition and reaching the final stages of the BBC Songs of Praise School Choir of the Year competition on more than one occasion.

The individual successes of Oakham’s musicians are just as impressive, with many pupils winning international, national and regional awards and competitions. Former student, Elizabeth Bass’ success in the 2012 International Harp Contest in Israel was a particular highlight for me.

I do not only concentrate my time on Oakham’s elite musicians (though they are many) as I have a real commitment to ‘music for all’, engaging as many pupils as possible. That is no small challenge given that Oakham is one of the largest co-ed boarding schools in the country.

There is an ambitious instrumental programme, with 40% of Oakham pupils learning a musical instrument. In total, around half of the school (around 500 pupils) participate in choirs, bands, orchestras or musical theatre, which certainly requires energy and enthusiasm, and some very clever timetabling!

Indeed, life is so active, you’ll often find half the choir in their sports kit or CCF uniform, fitting in rehearsals around their other commitments.

In my time at Oakham, I have consolidated the strength of singing, www.independentschoolparent.com

Right, Music Director, Peter Davis. Oakham has an ambitious instrumental programme, with 40% of pupils learning an instrument

❝

What’s your view? Discuss on Twitter... @ISParent

I have a real commitment to ‘music for all’, engaging as many pupils as possible ❞ directing three of the school’s five choirs which involve over 300 pupils. Many get their first taste of ambitious choral singing in the Jerwoods Choir, a mixed trebles choir, who recently recorded a new radio drama score by Gavin Bryars for BBC Radio 3.

As well as developing the school’s choral tradition, I’ve put considerable energy into composition at Oakham. I’m particularly proud of our track record in the Royal Opera House’s annual Fanfare Competition, in which there has been an Oakham winner every year, and incredibly two in the 2013 competition.

We are the only school to have achieved this accolade, and it has been a wonderful creative springboard for some of our younger composers each year. My

championing of composition at Oakham has seen a continuing tradition of major composers regularly writing new works for the school.

I’m incredibly proud of the growing roster of scholarships and my own background as a scholar at St John’s College, Cambridge and Salisbury Cathedral helps me in my personal mentoring of the school’s music scholars.

I was delighted to hear that former student, Anna Lusty (now a viola scholar at the Royal Academy of Music) admitted that I strongly influenced her to join Oakham as a music scholar, as I was “just so full of energy!”

For more information visit... www.independentschoolparent.com

SUMMER 2013 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL PARENT 45

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46 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ParENT sUMMER 2013

www.independentschoolparent.com

SAILING Left, Gordonstoun’s Ocean Spirit of Moray

Ships ahoy!

With five medal wins at London 2012, sailing has arrived as a mainstream sport and nowhere more so than in our schools, writes Tracy Cook

www.independentschoolparent.com

I don’t know if it’s the Olympics shining a spotlight on sailing, or whether the schools’ racing side has just got a higher profile,

but

there

are

definitely

more

schools taking part,” says Keith Sammons, who has just stepped down as the Commodore of the British Schools Dinghy Racing Association, (BSDRA ) for independent schools.

“We’ve

seen

event

and

race

numbers

increase over the last few years. A few years ago we had just ten schools turning up for each regional, now there’s 20 or 25.

And the fantastic news is that even prep schools are approaching us asking for advice on how they can get involved.”

Sammons is also Master of Sailing at Tonbridge

School,

where

boys

sail

from

the

first

year,

up

to

four

afternoons

a

week. As Commodore of the BSDRA, he organised regional competitions all over the country throughout the summer term,

culminating

in

the

national

finals.

“Each year a handful of new schools start taking part, which is great. Recently we’ve seen Merchant Taylors’ School in Northwood

come

on

board,

while

last

year

the

Whitstable

Trophy

for

the

highest placed BDSRA school went to Magdalen College School (in Oxfordshire).”

The Royal Yachting Association (RYA) is also running the OnBoard scheme to reach out and encourage more schools to sail,

at

over

240

accredited

sailing

clubs

throughout the country. They have set up a network of 32 Sailing Development Officers

whose

role

is

to

link

up

with

schools

and

offer

them

weekly

sailing

sessions. So far over 61,000 children have taken part.

“Schools are taking sailing more seriously now,” says Andy Cornah, Head of Sailing at Sevenoaks School. “More schools have full-time sailing instructors and

are

offering

it

as

a

sports

option

instead

of

football

or

cricket.

And

the

SUMMER 2013 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL PARENT 47

From left below, The Tenacity of Bolton, built by Bolton School for Boys, Lancashire, British Schools Dinghy Racing Association Regional Finals, Gordonstoun School, Moray

advantage with sailing is that pupils can choose it all year round.”

As current British Team Racing Champion himself, Andy Cornah has helped lead Sevenoaks to new heights of success. They are the first school to ever represent Britain at the Team Racing World Championships in 2011 and have won the School National Championships for 16 of the past 19 years.

Cornah believes team sailing is an excellent sport for schools to learn. “It’s very tactical, it’s often called chess on water. It needs good teamwork and excellent sailing skills. Boys and girls can compete equally because there’s no physical disadvantage.”

At Sevenoaks, he is keen to involve as many pupils as possible, teaching novices and offering sailing lessons to 80 children twice a week from Year 9.

The school has a fleet of 36 boats, moored on the nearby Bough Beech Reservoir in Kent.

“It is very rewarding watching the children pick it up. It requires a lot of thinking and there are a lot of skills they need to learn. If you put a beginner in a

boat and said ‘sail over there’, they wouldn’t be able to. You need to understand how to position the sails, how to position the boat, how to sail into the wind, how to make it quicker. It’s great when you see a pupil finally get it.”

“It is really good fun” says sixth former Imogen Smith, 18, Captain of Sailing, who started sailing at school in Year 9. “Out on the water, you feel free.

You’re at school, but away from school.

When it’s windy, the sun is shining and you hear the sound of the water against the boat, I just love it.”

But for some schools, sailing isn’t just about racing and winning, but about personal development. At Gordonstoun, Moray, they have long used sail training to develop pupils with their broad curriculum and emphasis on Learning Through Challenge.

Pupils first learn to sail in traditional boats, or cutters, in Hopeman Harbour near the school, working their way through RYA qualifications. Then in Year 10, all pupils have a chance to crew the school training vessel, the Ocean Spirit of Moray, for a week’s voyage off the west

48 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ParENT summer 2013

❝ Out on the water, you

feel free. You’re at school, but away from school.

When I hear the sound of the water against the boat, I just love it ❞

SAILING

CALL ING ALL Y O UNG SA New B ILORS BC !

CREDIT: DUNCAN DUMBRECK

fi and A maz lm, Swallo for ex ons, is look ws t ing ind ras. Visit schoo ependent lp for fu arent.com ll deta ils

coast of Scotland. Some pupils also crew extra voyages in the summer, sailing Ocean Spirit up into the Arctic.

“I believe we all respond in a way we might not expect when we are challenged. We find out what we are capable of,” says Ian Lerner, Gordonstoun’s Sailing Co-ordinator, speaking from his cabin in the middle of a gale off the Isle of Skye.

“Facing the most elemental dangers in nature, that we have no control of, can lead to great self awareness. It’s a very powerful experience for a young person.

We take pupils out of their comfort zones and they experience something that isn’t an artificial challenge, something they’ve got to get on with. It can be a great leveller and makes them appreciate the simple things in life, simple kindnesses, like a cup of tea made at just the right time.”

Sailing is also seen as playing a vital role in building teamwork at Bolton School for Boys. They took it to an extreme and actually built their own boat, a 60-foot yacht, the Tenacity of Bolton. Started as a Millennium project,

over 1,000 pupils have worked in technology lessons for over ten years to build the sail-training ketch completely from scratch.

Now they reap the benefits. The Tenacity was launched five years ago and from Year 8, pupils crew her on a voyage out of Lancaster, into Morecambe Bay and sailing around the Isle of Man, steering, putting sails up and down, navigating and working the anchor. The Tenacity is an essential part of their Outdoor Adventure Learning based at Patterdale Hall in the Lake District. Here boys can also learn traditional dinghy sailing on Ullswater Lake.

“One of the greatest lessons from sailing Tenacity is having to get on with everyone else in a small pressure cooker environment,” says Colin Wright, Principle Sailing Instructor.

He believes sailing teaches pupils about much more than seamanship skills.

“We want to develop kids so they can learn about themselves and handle themselves well. Sailing is a great way to build children’s self confidence and their self esteem.”

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The Worthwhile Gap Year and Summer Holiday; Culture in Italy

Why? To see many of the greatest achievements in art, architecture and sculpture; to learn how these fit into the greater picture of Western Civilization; to find like minded friends as you travel through Italy and to have fun doing it.

When? The AHA Gap Year Course is six weeks long and starts in November, January, April and August, and there are shorter Summer Holiday courses in July.

Where? Travel through Venice, Verona, Florence, Siena, Rome, Naples and Sicily - places whose names breathe art.

“Going on this course ensured that at my interview I had both the confidence and the enthusiasm to talk passionately about art – and that won me a place.”

Min Nolan, Oxford University.

History of Art Undergraduate “I do passionately believe that what I learnt on AHA, and the continuing interest I took from it, has helped me in job applications, interviews and most importantly, in a personal capacity (in confidence, conversation and towards being the sort of rounded individual that I would strive to be) ever since.”

Richard Sherrington, Associate, Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP

Telephone: +44 (0)1379 871800 or email: info@arthistoryabroad.com A RT H I S T O RY A B R O A D

www.arthistoryabroad.com

GAP YEAR

The great escape

If you do your homework, you’ll find the right gap year, writes Alice Baines

www.independentschoolparent.com

planning, a gap year can easily be lazed away. Consider your personality, drive and determination – do you have (or desire to develop!) the gumption to organise and fund yourself for a full year, when school friends are moving on and enjoying the spoils of university life without you? If the answer is no, perhaps a summer gap or post-grad gap year might be more up your street!

Above, a team of hikers approach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania, at sunrise after trekking through the night

❝ Consider your personality,

drive and determination.

Do you have the gumption to organise yourself? ❞

IMAGES: CORBIS

A

s with higher education, gap years come in many shapes and sizes. They vary from a summer trip: filling the space between the end of exams and beginning of university, to a full academic gap year, which can run for up to 15 months and ultimately requires the gapper to defer their UCAS application.

There are benefits and drawbacks to both types of gap year, well worth considering as a family. While a summer programme provides a welcome break from study after A levels, it exerts obvious time restrictions, such as needing to be in the UK to react to exam results. Also, it doesn’t give the same opportunity for self-funding and flights tend to be at a premium during this time.

A full year out before university provides fantastic scope to combine a variety of work and travel, gain valued skills and personal development which, when used constructively, is of huge benefit in the competitive jobs market. It gives you time to truly immerse yourself in new cultures, become independent of your parents and consider all your future options.

Conversely, it’s a long stretch of time to be out of education and without proper

The next big decision is the type of experience you want from your gap year.

Google “gap year” and it reveals the dazzling variety of organisations and destinations, let alone types of activity you can fill your time with.

Put simply, you can narrow the options to four main types of gap activity: Gap courses are designed to help develop a new skill or improve an existing one including drama, sub-aqua diving,

QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE YOU SIGN UP...

1. Who can take part? How are

they selected?

2. Who benefits from the programme? Will anyone else

benefit from this placement apart from me?

3. What exactly will I be doing? How has the programme

been chosen and checked out? Will I be alone; who will I be placed with?

What can I expect in terms of accommodation and food?

4. What’s the cost? What does it cover? What is the recommended budget for extras? If I have to pay a deposit, is it refundable?

5. The organisation? Why does

the organisation exist? Do I have to sign anything? Does the company have funds if there is an emergency?

6. What can I do before I go?

Who is responsible for visas and work permits? Who provides insurance and what is included in the cover? Health, possessions, cancellation and repatriation?

SUMMER 2013 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL PARENT 51

Gap year options can include volunteering in children’s hospitals, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, trying new local delicacies such as chicken’s feet, white water rafting in Nepal and teaching children in Malawi

water and winter sports. Some, such as TEFL, even result in qualifications that can be used to gain paid work in future.

Often overlooked by gappers looking for a complete break from studies, remember these courses are often delivered in exciting locations – from art history tours of Italy to learning Spanish in the Andes – they look great on the CV and are often taught in groups providing a ready-made social circle.

Expeditions are a good fit if you’re looking for adventure or to develop self-confidence and leadership skills.

From summiting the world’s highest peaks to trekking through deserts, jungle or arctic landscapes, expeditions offer a real physical challenge and the chance to pit your wits against nature! Again this is generally a group activity led by qualified leaders and can be combined with scientific research or local volunteering.

The sense of personal achievement that comes from completing an expedition is not only a great buzz, but also demonstrates strength of character and determination to succeed.

Work experience and internships have been growing in popularity, perhaps due to the competitive job market for graduates and gappers’ increased awareness of the need to improve their CVs. Practical work experience, whether paid or unpaid, at home or abroad, is a vital addition to a graduate’s CV. So if you spent all, or part of, your gap year working it will help to set you apart when applying for a graduate job. It also gives you the opportunity to try your hand at different vocations before you commit to further study in that area. The Year in Industry www.independentschoolparent.com

Gap year

has long offered paid gap placements in 300 companies across the UK working in technology, science and engineering but it is also possible to gain career specific work experience in more exotic locations. The Leap and other organisations offer overseas internships in areas as diverse as medicine, dentistry, media, tourism and business. These make a great talking point when applying for jobs!

Volunteering is a wonderful opportunity to contribute as you travel, and one of the activities looked on most favourably by employers and admissions tutors. For

❝ The sense of achievement

that comes from an expedition demonstrates a determination to succeed ❞

those looking for genuine cultural exchange and to get off the “beaten track”, volunteering can offer insight and experiences which many tourists miss.

There really is something for everyone including teaching, sport, care work and conservation projects. You can choose to specialise with a single type of project or opt for a combined placement such as those offered by The Leap, mixing community and conservation projects.

There is a multitude of decisions that go into choosing a gap year, and the mistake many people make is to underestimate the research required. But get it right and your gap year can equip you with the skills and contacts to set you up for life. www.independentschoolparent.com

HOw DO yOu KEEP yOur CHILD SafE ON THEIr gaP yEar? A bespoke course in safety will fully prepare your child if they’re off to a remote corner of the world, says security expert matthew Blakiston Nepal: a case study

The gap year is a wonderful opportunity for young people to spread their wings.

For most of them, it is their first taste of being a grown-up and experiencing the real freedom of having left school. It is also a chance to travel the world before either the academic rigours of university or a career begins.

preparation is key

Over the last 20 years, it has become increasingly popular for young people to travel further and further afield. Often these travels will take them to countries with developing infrastructures, unsanitary healthcare and high crime rates. It is vital that parents can feel confident that their children are as prepared for their year abroad as possible and that the gap year traveller embarks on their adventures with as much knowledge as they can.

Increasingly, parents are seeking the advice and guidance of security professionals who can provide a short training package to ensure that a young traveller is equipped to cope with whatever problems they may encounter on their time abroad.

Bespoke safety

We provide bespoke training courses ranging from an hour briefing up to an intensive three-day package. All of our courses are tailored specifically to the countries that the young people will be travelling to and take into account the criminal, medical, climatic and logistical threats that they may encounter.

During her gap year, Camilla went hiking in the Annapurna range in Nepal. No technical climbing was involved but some of the treks were up very steep slopes. On the 5th day, one of the group members slipped and fell 20ft on to a pile of boulders, breaking his femur. The guide was a local sherpa and had no formal medical training. Fortunately, Camilla’s parents had sent her on a two day first aid course with us before she flew to Kathmandu and she knew what to do.

After assessing the injuries and bandaging the other wounds she was able to make a basic splint for the leg.

Camilla then used some ropes and the nearby bamboo to put together a stretcher for the casualty and the team managed to carry him to the nearest guest lodge. From here, Camilla was able to telephone the emergency number that she had been given and we coordinated an effective evacuation process that took the casualty from the mountain in the quickest and safest way possible.

For more iNFormatioN on bespoke safety courses, please contact matthew Blakiston salamanca Group salamanca-group.com 0203 597 7532

summer 2013 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ParENT 53

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COMMENT

Girls love engineering – don’t they?

Rachel Kerr of the Girls’ Schools Association looks at how girls’ schools are inspiring a robust interest in STEM subjects

I

t’s no secret that the UK needs more engineers. Sir James Dyson has been repeatedly quoted bemoaning the lack of potential engineers coming from our schools and universities. But if the number of engineers is inadequate, the number of female engineers is even more so. Women constitute only six per cent of the UK’s professional engineers, according to the Institute of Engineering and Technology. And is it little wonder, when high street game shops – as reported in a recent article in the Independent newspaper – are still promoting toolkits and construction toys almost exclusively to boys?

If your little girl shows a natural talent for building, making, designing and generally finding out how things work, what can you do to nurture her interest?

Finding a school at which girls and boys study STEM and related subjects (science, technology, engineering and maths) in equal or proportionately equal numbers beyond GCSE is certainly a starting point. But you may struggle to find such a school. As reported in the Institute of Physics’ research findings last

national and international teams in the 2013 Student Robotics Competition.

The girls won the “Best Rookies” trophy and the “First Moves’ award for being the first team to put together a working prototype robot.

Head of Computing and ICT, Matt Howe, said: “Our students thoroughly enjoy the experience of learning to design, code, engineer and test their autonomous robots and it’s immensely rewarding to watch them.”

At Red Maids’ School near Bristol, girls from both state and independent schools across the south west are invited to hear high profile speakers at the school’s STEM Conference to tackle questions such as What are the “geeks” at NASA really like?

How do we stop cyber attacks? Can our heads control our hearts?

Headington and Red Maids’ schools What’s your view? Discuss on Twitter... @ISParent

ensuring girls remain inspired by STEM ❞

GET INTO THE SECTOR Land Rover and UK charity, WISE, have launched a new scholarship for young women looking to pursue a career or further studies in engineering. The Range Rover Evoque WISE Scholarship will award £9,000 to female students or apprentices over three years . Zara Phillips (left) launched the programme in May and spoke about how inspiring both her grandmother and her mother were in helping young women choose engineering as a career. At present, just 13% of the engineering workforce is female.

For more information and to apply: inspiringtomorrowsengineers.com

www.independentschoolparent.com

❝ Throughout the UK, schools are

autumn, girls in co-ed schools are less likely to study A-level physics than girls in independent girls’ schools. In fact, girls in independent girls’ schools are 4.5 times more likely to take up A-level physics than those in co-educational maintained schools.

Indeed, there are few schools that offer GCSE or A-level engineering but the involvement of girls in thriving extracurricular activities that are related to engineering and other STEM subjects can be a major indication of a school that takes girls seriously.

For example, at Headington School in Oxford – where maths is the most popular sixth form subject – two teams of girls recently competed against 40

are not alone. Throughout the UK, independent girls’ schools are taking part in similar initiatives to ensure girls remain inspired by STEM subjects.

With alumnae such as the professor of aeronautics at the California Institute of Technology, Dr Beverley McKeon Reynolds, (St Catherine’s School, Bramley); Institute of Physics gold medal holder Ruth Gregory (Dame Allan’s Girls’ School); engineer and TV presenter Kate Bellingham; and astrophysicist Dame Jocelyn Bell Burnell (The Mount School, York) to aspire to, they have every chance of confounding stereotypical expectation.

For more information visit... www.independentschoolparent.com

SUMMER 2013 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL PARENT 55

Festival spirit What do you do when your precious teen announces that theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re off to a festival? Glynis Kozma has the answersâ&#x20AC;Ś

LIFE

images: getty

H

ow would you feel if your teenager casually mentioned that they were going to a festival? The very word can strike terror into the hearts of parents: sex, drugs and rock ‘n roll all so temptingly under one roof – even if it is a canvas one.

Do you allow your child to attend a festival? Be prepared for pressure from them, assuring you that everyone else is going. Which, of course, may or may not be the truth.

First, you need to ensure they are allowed to attend. Most festivals have a minimum age of 16. Virgin Festivals

❝

stipulate that anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over.

Greenbelt Festivals will only admit under 16s if they are accompanied by someone over 21, and 16-18 year-olds need written consent from a parent or carer, with their contact details written on wrist bands. All festivals have strict regulations about buying alcohol on site and recommend that anyone who looks under 21 carries ID, such as a passport.

Will they be safe?

If your son or daughter is 16 and they are

Below and overleaf, Coachella Festival, Palm Springs, USA, held in April, kicks off the festival season

hoping to go to the festival with an older friend, does this mean they will be safe?

“The worst situation,” says Jo who has been to numerous festivals, “is that a teenager would drink too much and need someone who is responsible enough to know what to do.” Finding help at a festival is very different from phoning mum or dad from a local party.

Judy Reith, a parent coach and director of Parenting People, a parent support group, suggests: “If your teenager is going with other people, always meet them first.

Trust your instincts – if you feel they won’t keep your child safe, then you have to

Even children who would normally never touch drugs may be tempted in a festival atmosphere ❞

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summer festival season guide Larmer Tree Festival, Salisbury 17th-21st July larmertreefestival.co.uk Camp Bestival, Dorset 1st-4th August campbestival.net Beach Break Live, Cornwall 20th-24th June beachbreaklive.com V Festival, Essex and Staffordshire 17th-18th August vfestival.com Chagstock Festival, Devon 19th-20th July chagstock.info Kendall Calling, Lake District 26th-28th July kendalcalling.co.uk Latitude, Suffolk 18th-21st July latitudefestival.com

For many families, the compromise is to allow their child to go for a day with clear boundaries about pick-up times, after all festivals are supposed to be fun... ❞

❝

refuse permission.” But if you have to say no to your child, Judy advises that you show empathy.

Judy’s three children have all attended festivals, as has she. “We used to go as a family and I’d advise any parent who has never been to one to talk to other families who have, so you know what your children could be exposed to – both good and bad.”

Alcohol, drugs, sex The main worries parents have about festivals are too much alcohol, first time or casual sex, and drugs. Judy acknowledges that festivals have a very “free and easy” atmosphere. “No one sleeps much, they eat rubbish for the weekend, there is drink available, and there is a feeling of ‘running on empty’, which can lead to experimentation with drugs or sex and the risks of being discovered are less than at home.” If your child has little experience of drinking alcohol, then you need to talk to them about limits beforehand because, Judy admits, “Peer pressure is very powerful”.

Similarly, parents need to have those “difficult” conversations, even if teens exclaim: “Oh I know all of that!” www.independentschoolparent.com

Green Man Festival, Wales 15th-18th August greenman.net Shambala Festival, Northamptonshire 22nd-25th August shambalafestival.org Secret Garden Party, Cambridgeshire 25th-28th July secretgardenparty.com

Heather is a parent of older children, and she went to the Isle of Wight festivals many years ago. “I’ve gone to festivals all my life, as have my children. If my parents had known what it was like on the Isle of Wight, I don’t think they’d have let me go!

In some ways, festivals are less safe now because there is so much more under-age drinking in society generally. But nowadays there are mobile phones and parents can keep in touch. My children didn’t go to festivals until they were 17, which I feel is about the right age.”

Communication is key Judy Reith stresses that parents must talk to their children about the risks: “Because if you don’t, who will?” Although many parents could find these conversations hard, Judy suggests: “I’m your parent and I’d never forgive myself if anything happened to you, so I need to say this.”

Some teenagers of 17 and 18 might be sexually active already, whether parents are aware of this or not, but discussions of safe sex and contraception need to be had even if, as Judy acknowledges, all you get is a groan and an, ‘Oh, Mum!’

Cornbury Festival, Oxfordshire 5th-7th July cornburyfestival.com Glastonbury, Somerset 26th-30th June glastonburyfestivals.co.uk Beautiful Days festival, Devon 16th-18th August beautifuldays.org Sunrise Festival, Somerset 30th May-2nd June sunrisefestivals.co.uk

Even children who would normally never touch drugs may be tempted in a festival atmosphere, but Judy reminds all parents: “You know your child best. If you feel your child is not old enough at 16 or 17 to cope with the peer pressure, or you aren’t happy about the people they intend to go with, then you have to say no.

Children differ hugely in their maturity and one 17 year-old may be very streetwise while another may be very naive.

For many families, the compromise is to allow their child to go for a day with clear boundaries about pick-up times.

Festivals should be fun: a bit of preparation and some honest discussions with your teenager should ensure that both they, and you, are happy.

Summer 2013 indePendent sCHool Parent 59

Knightsbridge School

67 Pont Street, London SW1X 0BD

T: 020 7590 9000 E: office@knightsbridgeschool.com W: knightsbridgeschool.com Head Teacher: Magoo Giles Admissions: Mary Caldecott-Smith E: registrar@knightsbridgeschool.com

Key facts

Gender / Ages: boys and girls, 4-13 years Total pupils: 362, boys 185, girls 177 Type: Day Fees: Nursery: Weekly from £5,150 Pre-Prep: Weekly from £5,150 Prep: Weekly from £5,480

Motto: Junior School: “Play Hard, Work Hard”.

Seniors: “Work Hard, Play Hard”.

Entrance procedure: Informal interview of both parents and children at the appropriate level. Prospective boys and girls for Year 1 and above will be expected to spend a day of assessment at the school

Open Days: Junior School - Tues 10am and Wed 9.30am.

Senior Wed 10am. Please call to book.

TOYS FOR BOYS

Treehouses, Garden Offices and Pavilions.

Studios, Studys and Summerhouses.

Adventure Playhouses, Bridges and Aerial Runways.

is a leadingnursery independent agesAbbotsholme 4-18, with additional provision. an education for life It is aSetschool unlikerural any surroundings, other: a wonderful in beautiful, co-educational boarding and daya wonderful school for It isAbbotsholme aSetschool unlike any other: in beautiful, surroundings, Abbotsholme is a rural leading independent place in which to learn and develop, where Abbotsholme Abbotsholme iseducation a leading independent an for life co-educational boarding and day school for ages 4-18, with additional nursery provision. place in which to learn and develop, where an education for life an education for life co-educational boarding and day school for 4-18, with additional provision. every moment matters every moment matters eachages child’s contribution isnursery properly valued and every moment matters Set in beautiful, beautiful, rurala surroundings, surroundings, Set in rural ages 4-18, with additional nursery provision.

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• Outstanding Smalland class sizes (around 15), enabling individual attention school facilities wall Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme to Gold level school facilities • outdoor education programme with indoor climbing • Separate Prep School facilities, with access to all senior and support • Outstanding outdoor education programme with indoor climbing wall and Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme to Gold level school facilities • Outstanding outdoor education programme with indoor climbing • Sporting• excellence with key focus on hockey, rugby and cricket Individual academic excellence and achievement wall and Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme to Gold level wall and Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme to Gold level • Separate Prep School facilities, with access to all senior Outstandingwith outdoor education with indoor climbing Sporting excellence key focus onprogramme hockey, rugby and cricket Key facts • • • Individual academic excellence and achievement 70 acre• farm BHS approved Equestrian Centre •working Small class sizesand (around 15), enabling individual attention Sporting excellence with key key focus focus onScheme hockey,torugby rugby and cricket and Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Goldand level •• wall Sporting excellence with on hockey, cricket school facilities • Small class sizes (around 15), enabling individual attention and support and support School(s): Nursery, Pre-Prep, Prep, Senior, Sixth Form • 70 acre working farmForm and BHS approved Equestrian Centre New dedicated Sixth Centre for independent learning • • Separate Prep School facilities, with access to all senior school facilities • 70 acre working farm and BHS approved Equestrian Centre • Sporting excellence with key focus on hockey, rugby and cricket 70 acre working farm and BHS approved Equestrian Centre • Outstanding outdoor education programme with indoor climbing wall and Outstanding outdoor education programme with indoor climbing • Separate PrepForm SchoolCentre facilities, with access to all senior Gender: Co-Ed • • dedicated Sixth for independent learning • New First class facilities for music, art and drama • New dedicated Sixth Form Centre for independent learning • 70 acre working farm and BHS approved Equestrian Centre New dedicated Sixth Form Centre for independent learning wall and Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme to Gold level school facilities TotalDuke of pupils: 1611 Edinburgh’s Award Scheme to Gold level First facilities foroutdoor music, art and drama First class facilities for(3-18 music, art and drama • New dedicated Sixth Form Centre for independent learning • • First class facilities for music, art and drama • Scholarships and forces bursaries available Boys: 906 class (3-18 years) Girls: 705 years) •• excellence Outstanding education with indoor climbing • Sporting excellence with key focus on hockey, rugby and cricket Sporting with key focus onprogramme hockey, rugby and cricket • 70 acre working farm and BHS approved Equestrian Centre Admissions: School Exam, Interview wall and Duke ofbursaries Edinburgh’s Award Scheme to Gold level • First Scholarships and forces bursaries available • class facilities for music, art and drama • Scholarships and forces available Scholarships and forces bursaries available • • New dedicated Sixth Form Centre for independent learning COME ALONG TO TO OUR OUR NEXT OPEN EVENT EVENT COME ALONG NEXT 70 acre working farm and BHS OPEN approved Equestrian Centre Type: Day, Weekly, Flexi, Full Boarding Sporting excellence with key focus onEVENT hockey, rugby and cricket • Scholarships and forces bursaries available • First class facilities for music, art and drama SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 COME ALONG TO OUR NEXT OPEN EVENT COME ALONG TO OUR NEXT OPEN Next Open Day: Saturday 9th March, March, 2013 from 9.30am COME ALONG TO –OUR NEXT OPEN EVENT Next Open Day: Saturday 9th 2013 from 9.30am Next Open Day: Saturday 9th March, 2013 from 9.30am Next Open Day: Saturday 9th March, 2013 from 9.30am Average Class Size: Prep 20, Senior – 16, Sixth Form – 2-12 • New dedicated Sixth Form Centre for independent learning • Next Scholarships and forces bursaries available RECEPTION PLACES AVAILABLE FOR SEPTEMBER SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 RECEPTION PLACES AVAILABLE FOR SEPTEMBER SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 Next Open Day: Saturday 9th March, 2013 from 9.30am • 70 acre working farm and BHS approved Equestrian Centre Open Day: Saturday 9th March, 2013 from 9.30am Information event for Year 7 entry entry in September: September: Information event for 7 SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 29in COMEDay: ALONG TO7 OUR NEXT OPEN EVENT Information event for Year 7Year entry infrom September: Information event for Year entry in September: Next Open Saturday 9th March, 2013 from 9.30am RECEPTION PLACES AVAILABLE FOR SEPTEMBER Faith: Anglican RECEPTION PLACES AVAILABLE FOR SEPTEMBER Next Open Day: Saturday 9th March, 2013 9.30am Information event for Year 7 entry in September: Information event for Year 7 entry in September: •Next First class facilities for music, art and drama Friday 11th January, 2013, 5.30pm RECEPTION PLACES AVAILABLE FOR SEPTEMBER Friday 11th January, 2013, 5.30pm SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 Next Open Day: Saturday 9th March, from 9.30am •January, New dedicated Sixth Form Centre independent Contact Jessica Ash on 01889 594 265 Friday 11th January, 2013, 5.30pm Friday 11th 2013, 5.30pm event for 72013 infor September: Day: Saturday 21st September from 9.30am learning Information event for Year 7Year entry in September: NURSERY –Information Day Fees: from £2,200 per term Contact Jessica Ash onentry 01889 594 265 FridayOpen 11th January, 2013, 5.30pm Contact Jessica on 01889 594 265 RECEPTION PLACES AVAILABLE FOR SEPTEMBER Friday 11th January, 2013, 5.30pm Information event for Year 7Ash entry in September: Friday 11th January, 2013, 5.30pm or visit www.abbotsholme.co.uk Contact Jessica Ash on 01889 01889 594 265 265 or visit www.abbotsholme.co.uk Contact Jessica Ash on 594 or visit www.abbotsholme.co.uk • First class facilities for music, art and drama Contact Jessica Ash on 01889 594 265 • Scholarships and forces bursaries available Friday 11th January, 2013, 5.30pm or visit www.abbotsholme.co.uk Contact Jessica Ash on 01889 594 265 or visit www.abbotsholme.co.uk PRE PREP – Day Fees: from £1,995 per term or 01889 visit www.abbotsholme.co.uk Contact Jessica Ash on 594 265 oron visit www.abbotsholme.co.uk Contact Michele Archer on 01889 594 265 orwww.abbotsholme.co.uk visit594 www.abbotsholme.co.uk Contact Jessica 01889 265 Friday 11th January, 2013, 5.30pm Contact Jessica Ash on 01889 01889 594Ash 265 or or visit visit Contact Jessica Ash on 594 265 www.abbotsholme.co.uk or www.abbotsholme.co.uk Contact Jessica Ash on 01889 594 265 or visit www.abbotsholme.co.uk • visit Scholarships and forces bursaries available PREP – Day Fees: from £3,170 per or 01889 visit www.abbotsholme.co.uk Contact Jessica Ash on 594 265term or visit www.abbotsholme.co.uk

COME ALONG TO OUR594 NEXT OPEN EVENT Contact Jessica Ash on 01889 265 or visit www.abbotsholme.co.uk Weekly Boarding: fromALONG £4,620 per term Abbotsholme School Abbotsholme School Abbotsholme School Abbotsholme School SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 COME TO OUR NEXT OPEN EVENT NextDay: Open Day:Rocester, Saturday 9th March, 20139.30am from 9.30am Open Saturday 9th March, 2013 from Uttoxeter, Rocester, Uttoxeter, Rocester, Uttoxeter, Rocester, Uttoxeter, FullNext Boarding: from £6,330 per term RECEPTION PLACES AVAILABLE FOR SEPTEMBER SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 9.30am Next Open Day: Saturday 9th March, 2013 from Next Open Day: Saturday 9th March, 2013 from 9.30am Abbotsholme School Abbotsholme School Information event for Year 7 entry in September: InformationRECEPTION event for Year 7AVAILABLE entry September: Staffordshire ST14in 5BS Staffordshire ST14 5BS PLACES FOR SEPTEMBER Staffordshire ST14 5BS Staffordshire ST14 5BS SENIOR – Day Fees: from £4,500 per term Rocester, Information event forAsh Year entry in594 September: Rocester, Uttoxeter, Friday 11th January, 2013, 5.30pm Information event for Year 7Uttoxeter, entry in from September: Next Open Day: Saturday 9th 2013 Contact Jessica on7March, 01889 265 9.30am Friday 11th January, 2013, 5.30pm Staffordshire ST14 5BS Contact Jessica Ash on 01889 594 265 Friday 11th January, 2013,£6,330 5.30pm Weekly Boarding: from per term Staffordshire ST14 5BS

or event visitJessica www.abbotsholme.co.uk Information Year entry Contact Ash on 018897594 265 or in visit September: www.abbotsholme.co.uk orfor visit www.abbotsholme.co.uk Contact Jessica Ash on 01889 594 265 or visit www.abbotsholme.co.uk FullContact Boarding: from per Jessica Ash£8,645 on 01889 594term 265 or visit www.abbotsholme.co.uk Sixth Form Entry: Yes Abbotsholme School School Abbotsholme Exam Type: A level, IB Rocester, Uttoxeter, Uttoxeter, Next Saturday 9th– 61%; March, 2013 from 9.30am Exam Open ResultsDay: (%):Rocester, GCSE: A*/A Staffordshire ST14 5BS Staffordshire ST14 A Level: A*/A –event 80% for Year 75BS Information entry in September: Higher Education (%): Overall: 99%; Oxbridge: 3%; Russell Group/1994 Group: 66% Special Educational Needs: Mild Name of Prep School: Bromsgrove Prep School Notable Alumni: AE Housman, Poet; Lord Digby Jones of Birmingham; Sir Iain Carmichael, Actor; Nicholas Evans, Author; Olivia Safe, Opera singer; Ben Foden, England Rugby

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PHOTO DIARY Dizzying heights

Geography pupils (right) from Bedales School, Hampshire, explored Iceland's waterfalls and volcanoes... ...while Tom Mythen from St Benedict's School, Ealing (left) hiked to the Everest memorial in Nepal with Sherpa Tenzing.

Behind the scenes ...at school parties, trips, plays, charity days and sporting events

Harlem shake

(Above) Students at Framlingham College, Suffolk, raised ÂŁ1,209.76 from their Charity Harlem Shake for the Young Minds Charity.

The world's a stage...

Rowing crews from The King's School, Chester (below) took advantage of the sun to practise on the River Dee.

The Glee Club at Tormead School, Kent, took to the stage as they got into costume for their performance of Beauty and the Beast.

Speaking out

(Above) Thirty local primary schools were invited for a day of activities at Community Day at Tonbridge School, Kent.

Diplomat Sir Sherard Cowper-Coles was the inaugural speaker in the Inspiring People series at Godolphin School, Wiltshire (below ).

Felsted School, Essex, hosted a charity fashion show, raising over ÂŁ2,000 for four nominated charities (left).

One hundred and sixty students, and even some staff, took part in this year's Road Race at Concord College, Shropshire (below).

SUMMER 2013 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL PARENT 61

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PHOTO DIARY Riding High

(Right) Bedales students compete in the school's first NSEA show jumping event at Crofton Manor Equestrian Centre.

(Left) Students at Framlingham College, Suffolk, perform the farcical play, A Funny thing Happened on the way to the Forum.

Anyone for tennis?

Snap happy!

(Below) The girls at Francis Holland Regent's Park took to the courts at the start of the term's tennis season.

(Left) Leicester High School and Year 10 pupil Philippa Culverwell, won Best Individual Photograph in the Rotary Photography Competition in the Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Cambridgeshire and Northampton area.

Meanwhile, (below) the Chamber Choir from St Mary's Calne, Wiltshire, sang for HRH The Duchess of Cornwall.

All masked up

(Above) On a recent trip to Venice, Italy, art students from The King's School, Chester, explored the city via vaparetto. They filled their sketchbooks with the city's iconic monuments and tried on classic Venetian masks.

Art attack

(Left) Alice Edgedale from St Mary's Calne, Wiltshire exhibited her art work with current and former pupils at an exhibition at Gallery 27 in London.

Pupils from Oundle School, Northamptonshire, (below) spent Easter in Morocco exploring Marrakech and the desert.

What a winner!

(Right) Olympic heroine, Katherine Grainger, gave a rousing speech to pupils at the Rowing Club dinner at The Cheltenham Ladies' College, Gloucestershire.

Pupils from Tormead School, Kent (above) spent Easter in Iceland sharpening their geography skills.

www.independentschoolparent.com

SUMMER 2012 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL PARENT 63

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Named one of the ‘world’s top superagents’ by luxury lifestyle magazine Centurion, Five Star Greece matches guests to their ideal villa and transforms dream holidays into realities.

‘The villa experience is ideal for larger groups who want to lead a family-focused lifestyle,’ says Ileana von Hirsch, Director of Five Star Greece, whose villas are popular with extended families.

‘They can eat breakfast in their pyjamas, relax and have the freedom to do as they like without external intrusions.

‘At the top end, villas provide their own concierge, chef, turn-down service and maybe a yacht with its own captain,’ says Ileana. ‘For a large group of people, a villa usually works out much better than a hotel.’

Bespoke itineraries Five Star Greece can also organise bespoke itineraries designed with all guests in mind. For one family made up of three generations with very different needs, for instance, Five Star Greece organised a trip to a petting zoo, a beach picnic and a boat trip to an island for coffee in the courtyard of a deserted monastery.

Having recently partnered up with a creative firm of event planners, Five Star Greece can arrange any number of magical outings, from moonlight meals and sunset cruises to helicopter trips, cookery classes and wine-tasting courses.

Although some of the villas available have access to day-trip cruises, Ileana and her business partner Evi Aidonpoulou can also

advise on luxury yachts for clients who want to see more of the islands, rather than just stay in the one place. ‘We like to offer our matchmaking expertise,’ says Ileana, who steers guests to the appropriate vessel and coastal stops.

Ileana and Evi pride themselves on meeting all of their clients’ requests. One particularly memorable guest asked to be supplied only with meat butchered no more than seven miles from where it had been farmed. ‘I managed it, even on a Greek Island,’ smiles Ileana. The only request they have had to turn down to date was for a four-day pirate-themed children’s party that climaxed with the burning of a real ship. ‘Maybe if we’d had more time,’ Ileana muses. www.fivestargreece.com

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BOOK CLUB

Summer reads

Holiday reading for teens

FAVOURITE BOOK

ONE MOMENT

By Kristina McBride

Paperback, Usborne, £6.99, out 1st July, 14+

A gripping summer scorcher for those looking for a romantic, yet heartbreaking read. Maggie remembers hanging out at the gorge with her closest friends after a blowout party. She remembers climbing the trail with her handsome boyfriend Joey but why was she left cowering at the top of the cliff, while Joey lay dead in the water below. Join Maggie as she tries to make sense of the situation as her memory returns in snippets. The novel explores how quickly everything can change in the split of a second and in the heat of a summer romance.

Blood tracks

By Paula Rawsthorne

You don’t know me

By Sophia Bennett

Paperback and e-book, Usborne, £6.99, out

Wildwood

By Colin Meloy, with illustrations

by Carson Ellis

1st June, 12+

Paperbook, Canongate, £7.99, out now, 8+

12+

Make sure you pack this compelling

This New York Times bestseller explores the

This is a heartfelt novel that explores friendship

whodunnit in your suitcase this summer. Gina

imaginary, the mysterious and the fantastical.

and loyalty. Sasha and Rose are best friends

has been plunged into a world of lies, crime

Protagonist Prue McKeel has been trying to

and in a band together, which all sounds quite

and betrayal since her dad died in mysterious

keep out of trouble, but it just keeps catching

tidy until the judges in a competition say that

circumstances. But she will not let it rest; she

up with her. Join in on her adventure into the

only one of them can go through to the next

is determined to discover the truth. Author

forbidden wilderness of Wildwood as her

round. This engrossing novel showcases a

Paula Rawsthorne is part of a collective of

baby brother is abducted and she sets off to

friendship that is put to the test in front of

authors, called The Edge, who aim to write

rescue him. Accompanied by beautiful

millions on TV. A bittersweet drama that is

gritty, realistic books for teenagers.

illustrations by Meloy’s wife, Carson Ellis.

engrossing and a lovely holiday read.

www.independentschoolparent.com

Paperback, Chicken House, £6.99, out now,

SUMMER 2013 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL PARENT 65

Greece

Corsica

Sardinia

Portugal

Turkey

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Island idylls

For tailor-made itineraries and a unique personal service that pairs family groups with their perfect villa, Greece is the place to head to this summer...

T

he ideal family holiday must be Deciding how to keep everyone occupied one where each family once you get to your dream villa can be member’s needs are matched the next hurdle. Children, parents, by experts who understand the grandparents and cousins may often intricacies of families and offer you a have different ideas on what constitutes tailor-made escape. the best way to spend their holiday.

Named one of the “world’s top Thankfully, Five Star Greece can also superagents” by luxury lifestyle organise bespoke itineraries magazine Centurion, Five Star designed with all guests in “For a large Greece does just this and, by mind. For one family made up group of people, matching guests to their ideal of three generations with very a villa usually villa, transforms dream holidays different needs, Five Star works out much into realities.

Greece organised a trip to a better than a “The villa experience is ideal zoo, a beach picnic and a boat hotel” for larger groups who want to trip to an island for coffee in lead a family-focused lifestyle,” says the courtyard of a deserted monastery.

Ileana von Hirsch, Director of Five Star Having recently partnered up with a Greece, whose villas are popular with creative firm of event planners, Five Star extended families. “They can eat Greece can arrange any number of breakfast in their pyjamas, relax and have magical outings, from moonlight meals the freedom to do as they like without and sunset cruises to helicopter trips, external intrusions. At the top end, villas cookery and wine-tasting courses. provide their own concierge, chef, Five Star Greece can also advise on turn-down service and maybe a yacht luxury yachts for clients who want to see with its own captain,” says Ileana. more of the islands by steering guests to www.independentschoolparent.com

With its picturesque landscapes, blue seas and skies, Greece is the summer holiday destination of choice for many families

the appropriate vessel and coastal stops.

Ileana and business partner, Evi Aidonpoulou, pride themselves on meeting all of their clients’ requests. One particularly memorable guest asked to be supplied only with meat butchered no more than seven miles from where it had been farmed. The only request they have had to turn down to date was for a four-day pirate-themed children’s party that climaxed with the burning of a real ship. “Maybe if we’d had more time...”

Ileana muses. fivestargreece.com

Summer 2013 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ParENT 67

ipsum

step back in time A family cruise to the classical civilization of Ancient Greece and Rome left Andrew Wilson wanting more…

W

e’ve been to the southern coast of Turkey on an archaeological family cruise aboard a Turkish gulet with Peter Sommer Travels three times now. Our very first, way back in 2006, was along the beautiful Lycian shore, from Göcek to Fethiye.

It perfectly married the freedom and relaxation that one requires from a holiday, but also gave a certain structure to the day as you learnt something new about the history of the area you are visiting. If your idea of escorted tours conjures up images of dry lectures and ageing crowds, then think again! Our lively trip along Turkey’s turquoise coast inspired both the younger and slightly older members on board. With an archaeologist-cum-guide who was a dab hand at bringing stories to life, we visited ancient burial sites riddled with 2,500 year old tombs, Byzantine and Ottoman castles and monumental Patara – the birthplace of St. Nicholas (Santa Claus/Father Christmas).

There was time to snorkel over sunken harbours, swim in beautiful bays, and 68 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ParENT summer 2013

“What a refreshing change – a family holiday where we could do our own thing, in our time, just as we wanted! There was a range of activities for the kids, and we fell in love with the region!”

climb rocky cliffs, too. What was so idyllic about it is that the villages and small towns that one encounters along the way are bereft of huge crowds due to their relative inaccessibility by car – one of the tiny hamlets and ancient cities we visited, Simena, an extraordinarily picturesque spot, could only be reached by sea or on foot.

The party on our boat, a traditional wooden gulet, consisted of my wife, Emma, and our three children, Jo, Kate and Anna, ranging from 8 to 14 years of age, together with a few other families.

The friendly crew left us to our own devices in the mornings – we’d wake and often have a swim in the bay where we’d anchored and spend the next few hours breakfasting, reading and sunbathing on deck. As soon as the midday sun had cooled, we’d go ashore with our expert which would take us to our ancient city of the day. Our archaeologist tour leader would then delight in regaling us with tales of bloodthirsty ancient battles and leave us groaning at his rather dubious insight into the personal hygiene of the ancient

Greeks or Romans! We’d have the pleasure of visiting well-documented sites such as Xanthus, which Brutus besieged after murdering Julius Caesar.

Gemiler Island, a tiny speck in the Mediterranean Sea, decked out with a series of Byzantine churches floored with mosaics with their columns and decorations lying asunder on the ground; and Patara, a beautiful site, with a vast theatre, colonnaded streets, its temples and baths now lying empty and forlorn, but gradually being rediscovered by archaeologists working under the bright sun.

All in all, the perfect family trip.

CruISINg WESTErN LyCIa – FamILy TOur Sat 20th July–Sat 27th July £2,195 GBP per person £2,080 GBP per child under 12 Peter Sommer Travels

Tel 01600 888 220 petersommer.com

www.independentschoolparent.com

ipsum

Y

ou might think I am a mother cast in Asian tiger mould, if I told you that I take my youngest children to museums in the holidays, but in truth it is they who request it, proving beyond doubt that the old dictum, the grass is always greener on the other side, is accurate. For we live in the culturally bereft Algarve and thus spend our holidays exploring cultural destinations.

Last Summer, after much discussion we opted for Rome – for my son to go to the Coliseum and to Gladiator school, something I thoroughly recommend for all 10-year-old boys – so this summer it was Paris for them both to see the glories of Versailles, and for my daughter to soak up the art at the Louvre, the Musée d’Orsay and Musée Rodin. This request from my daughter was, I strongly suspect, prompted as much by her love of crêpes, as by her passion for art, but then, when in France, the two go nicely hand in hand.

Having decided on that, it was down to me to pick the place to lay our heads at night. Of course, the downside of

being a travel writer is that my children care ENORMOUSLY where they stay.

Luckily enough, I knew that Mandarin Oriental had recently opened its doors in Paris and they are such little fans. So, off we went…

What a success it was. We swam in the beautiful spa, breakfasted in the outside courtyard, on crêpes – of course – and then strode out to enrich ourselves with culture. The hotel, on rue Saint-Honoré is brilliantly placed to walk everywhere and walk we did. First up was the Louvre, where the crowds were such that we quickly decided to concentrate on just a few rooms. Unfortunately, due to the diversity of interests, these seemed to be a long way from each other.

Youngest son wanted to see the limestone Scribe Squatting while middle daughter wanted to see the Italian paintings, with of course the famous Mona Lisa, and I felt that when in France we should pay homage to the French paintings of Ingres and Fragonard, Chardin and Poussin before the “must see” sculptures of Michelangelo and Canova, on the

Home to art, crêpes and magnificent palaces, France makes for an ideal cultural, family trip

Weekend à Paris A cultural trip to France gives her children all they could ask for, even a stay in their favourite hotel, the Mandarin Oriental, says mary Lussiana

www.independentschoolparent.com

ground floor. Exhausted, we fell on a steak-frites lunch, in a brasserie on a Parisian pavement before we hit Musée d’Orsay and the Impressionists, where pleasingly, there were far less people.

The next day was Notre Dame and the impressive Musée Rodin. We studied The Kiss and the powerful Hand of God, sculpted in marble, which we all agreed reminded us in some ways of Michelangelo’s Captives in Florence. An ice-cream in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower completed our few days of Parisian culture and we fled the head of the capital for the cool of Versailles.

Basing ourselves at Les Etangs de Corot, the little hamlet where artist Corot lived, and which now houses a charming hotel and Caudalie Spa, we ate sumptuous fare on a thatched 19thcentury terrace, among gardens overflowing with rambling roses.

The scale and splendour of the Palace of Versailles the next day, could not fail to impress the children, from the Hall of Mirrors to the Grand Trianon, to Le Nôtre’s gardens, where we picnicked, courtesy of the hotel, among the marble statues before returning to watch the cool silent darkness fall over the lake at the hotel.

It was a wonderfully bucolic end to a few days of capital culture. mary Lussiana stayed in the Mandarin Oriental, mandarinoriental.com/paris and Les Etangs de Corot, etangs-corot.com

Summer 2013 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ParENT 69

DISCOVER

TURKEY, GREECE & ITALY “It was everything we dreamed it would be and more.

Relaxing, educational, a gorgeous boat, the most delicious food, beautiful scenery... Now my two boys want to be archaeologists when they grow up.

It was THE educational experience of a lifetime!”

Rochelle Benning

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70 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ParENT sUMMER 2013

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make-up

F

Face paint It’s all about letting your daughter experiment, but there is a time and a place for make-up, writes Thea Jourdan

orget smoky eyes, fake tan and false eyelashes. Most independent senior schools take a conservative view when it comes to make-up.

Discretion is the order of the day – think the Duchess of Cambridge rather than pop princess Lady Gaga– but only a few schools ban it altogether and usually only for girls in the lower forms.

Last year, The Cheltenham Ladies’ College raised eyebrows when it announced that girls should be make-up free, as well as keeping long hair tied back and skirts no shorter than an inch above the knee. A media kerfuffle followed as the school defended its position, issuing a statement: “We have found that working in collaboration with our parents has helped to balance current fashion trends with what is appropriate, bearing in mind our girls’ ages range from 11 to 18.”

Although state schools tend to be more relaxed on the whole, there are some examples of zero tolerance in non-fee paying establishments. Girls in years nine to 11, aged 14 to 16 at Shelley College comprehensive, near Huddersfield, have been banned from wearing make-up after a rule that allowed them to use it “discreetly” was scrapped. Mirrors were removed from the girls’ loos as an extra incentive.

Other schools side skip the issue of make-up in the rule book, instead stating that pupils should be smart and look neat. Tattoos are explicitly forbidden for girls at Roedean School, (perhaps

Summer 2013 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ParENT 71

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the family adventure experts • Spot stunning wildlife as you walk, bike, kayak, snorkel and cruise the Galapagos • Experience the colours of Morocco • Get active in Dalmatia • Discover the amazing Taj Mahal • See Tanzania’s wildlife, mountains and Zanzibar Island • Practice your Spanish on an active family break Plus over 30 original itineraries for BIG family adventures in Africa, Europe, South East Asia, South America and The Middle East Experience your world together

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make-up

❝ Discretion is the

order of the day – think Duchess of Cambridge rather than pop princess Lady Gaga ❞

suggesting prior infringements), along with hair dyed an unnatural colour and piercings (other than one in each ear.)

At Wellington College, Berkshire, a co-ed boarding school, pupils are expected to be “smart, tidy and businesslike in their college attire. All pupils are expected to take pride in their personal appearance.” If schools remain coy about make-up, they are happy to be explicit about nail polish and keeping long hair being tied back – probably more to do with health and safety than appearance.

“It does depend a bit on the school but the general consensus is that pupils should not be spending too much time on make-up. As long as they are staying within normal boundaries, it isn’t usually mentioned,” says Janette Wallis, senior editor at the Good Schools Guide.

Wallis agrees that there can be exceptions, but panda eyes are far from the norm. “From my experience, visiting schools for the Guide, it is the girls themselves who prefer to be understated when it comes to make up. They don’t want to be seen to be trying too hard.”

Surprisingly, this is a view echoed by Rita Murray, deputy head at King Alfred School in North London, one of the more liberal co-ed day schools in London, which does not have a school uniform.

“Our policy is to allow pupils at the school room to express themselves in terms of their personal appearance, but most children here do conform and www.independentschoolparent.com

many eschew make-up altogether,” she says. “Occasionally, a young woman will decide to adopt heavier make-up, but this is rare. We did have one girl who chose to come to school with a Goth-style hair-do and dark-coloured lipstick, but she was unusual. Yes, she did get a few second glances, but it didn’t affect her school work and quite soon, no one really noticed that she looked a bit different.”

And should it really matter whether a girl wears make up or not? “How long is a piece of string? It can be seen as a discipline issue,” says Anne-Marie Hodgkiss, membership officer at the Independent Schools Association. “Not wearing make-up may be seen as an important part of the ethos of the school or simply something that the school governors feel strongly about.”

In senior schools, flexibility on the issue is understandable but most are agreed that prep schools should have rules banning make-up for girls up to the age of 13. “In the old days, younger girls would play with face paints, but now they are wearing grown-up make-up, from a younger and younger age,” says Wallis.

Certainly, my six year-old is now coming home from so-called ‘fairy’ birthday parties wearing glitter lipgloss and more than a hint of eyeshadow.

“Most prep schools ban make-up and girls who are wearing it are told to wash it off,” says Wallis. Sometimes the ban extends up to age 11 but usually all the

When it comes to make-up girls prefer to be understated.

They don’t want to be seen to be trying too hard

way through the school. “It is worth enquiring on school policy if the issue is important to you,” she says. “Boarding prep schools may take a tougher stance than an independent prep school in London, for example.”

Parents, especially mothers, do have an important role to play when it comes to ensuring that daughters learn how to beautify themselves at the right time in appropriate circumstances without emulating the classic pantomime dame.

“I think as a parent you know the best way to approach things with your daughter and you need to find the right way to tackle the issue of make-up,” says Vanessa Piridge, a professional make-up artist. “For some girls, going shopping with mum would be a fun thing to do; for others, mum is the last person they would take advice from! You could both go to a store and both get your make-up done for fun. You should be prepared to do it too.”

Teenagers may not be overly impressed, even if you fork out for Chanel lipstick and Estée Lauder’s Bronze Goddess. “They may prefer a funkier brand like Benefit or Urban Decay,” says Piridge. And don’t expect their colour choices to chime with yours. Midnight blue mascara and bright blue nail varnish are de-rigeur at the moment. By all means, insist on fresh-faced for school, but keep things in proportion. At the end of the day, experimenting with make-up is a normal part of growing up. summer 2013 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ParENT 73

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COMPETITION

WINa family holiday at a luxury

beach hotel in Cyprus

Independent School Parent has teamed up with the beautiful Almyra hotel to offer you a break on the mediterranean shoreline of Paphos, Cyprus

S

tylish and relaxing, fashionable yet unpretentious, Almyra sits in eight acres of landscaped gardens on the Mediterranean shoreline of Paphos, Cyprus. Meaning “taste of the sea”, Almyra’s highlights include the clubs tailored to children from 4 months to 17 years old, the Almyraspa − a sun-lit utopia of organic and marinebased therapies complemented by inspiring ocean vistas − and the waterfront Kyma (“Wave”) Suites, showcasing harbour views from candle-lit rooftop terraces. The hotel is a comfortable combination of modern design elements, sleek facilities and family-friendly features: because having children doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice good taste...

Understanding our ethos, Almyra has offered Independent School Parent readers the chance to escape for a three-night break in this luxury, five star beach hotel.

The prize includes:

 Three nights’ accommodation in a sea

view room for 4 people on a bed and breakfast basis.

Thanos Hotels is a family run hotel group in Cyprus, comprising of three properties. Designed for pure pleasure, each hotel offers a different experience and a wide array of activities and cultural experiences that take guests into the unspoilt heart of Cyprus.

How to enter: For your chance to win just answer the following question on our website (independentschoolparent. com/win): What is the group of hotels in Cyprus called?

Terms & Conditions: Dates are subject to availability. Closing date for competition entries is 29th July 2013.

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Summer 2013 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ParENT 75

Overnight Summer Camp for 10-16’s in Scotland

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More than just art history A pre university course set in London, Venice, Florence and Rome which opens eyes, ears and minds – a life-changing and unforgettable experience. The course covers arts, literature, music, world cinema, global issues, cookery, life drawing and photography, as well as experiencing Venice during carnival time. It is aimed at students from across the academic spectrum – both sciences and arts.

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PROPERTY

School run Our pick of the best family homes for sale near independent boarding schools

Chilcote Manor Guide £1.1 million

WELLS, SOMERSET A mid-nineteenth century six bedroom manor house in the Gothic Revival style with breathtaking views of the city of Wells with Exmoor on the horizon. ✱ 2.1 miles- Wells Cathedral ✱ 5.1 miles- Downside School ✱ 8.5 miles- Millfield School freemanforman.co.uk @johndwoodandco

St Helens £675,000 St Catherine’s Road Guide £929,995

BROXBOURNE, HERTFORDSHIRE A listed, Grade II six-bedroom, semi-detached family home in a coveted historic Conservation area in Broxbourne. The west-facing gardens are almost 80’ in length. ✱ 2.1 miles- Haileybury ✱ 7.1 miles- Queenswood ✱ 23.7 miles- Princess Helena College

MELROSE, ROXBURGHSHIRE This beautifully positioned Georgian villa on the banks of the River Tweed is a fantastic family home with six bedrooms. Sitting in eight acres of land the property has fantastic views and surroundings. ✱ 0.1 miles St Mary’s Preparatory School ✱ 35 miles Longridge Towers School knightfrank.com @knightfrank

hetheringtons.co.uk For more information visit... www.independentschoolparent.com

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SUMMER 2013 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL PARENT 77

SUMMER COURSES AT THE MCC CRICKET ACADEMY

Book your budding cricketer onto one of these popular coaching courses.

Vastly experienced MCC coaches teach all disciplines of cricket, in the specialist facilities at Lord’s.

lavender hill

holidays

Please note, these courses are not for total beginners. For ages 8-17 years.

COURSES RUn fOR 2 DAYS Between 10 July – 13 August 2013 from 10am to 5pm

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Lavender Hill Holidays are a collection of five star, unique, family friendly holiday properties located in the beautiful Somerset countryside.

All the properties have private hot tubs and three have use of an fabulous indoor swimming pool.

You can stay in our award winning Treehouse (Sunday Times best 50 UK holiday cottages), a cottage next to the atmospheric West Somerset Steam Railway or two large properties sleeping twelve in outstanding locations.

All our properties are perfect for family holidays with babies, younger children and teenagers - with lots to see and do both on site and in this special part of England.

Please go to

www.lavenderhillholidays.co.uk or call Kate on 01823431622/07813821475

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Trade online. Free.

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Everything from musical instruments to houses.

AS SEE ON N ITV

www.schoolstrader.com 78 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL ParENT sUMMER 2013

www.independentschoolparent.com

What’s on?

LIFE

Our roundup of events to look out for this summer… [ 1ST JUNE ]

CHIME FOR CHANGE, LONDON

Chime for Change is a community of people working to raise funds and promote awareness for girls and women’s empowerment. Headed up by Beyoncé Knowles, Salma Hayek Pinault and Frida Giannini, their first concert will be held on 1st June at Twickenham Stadium, London. The global line-up includes live acts from Beyoncé (below), Ellie Goulding, Florence + the Machine, John Legend and Rita Ora. chimeforchange.org/

[ HAMPSHIRE ]

FUN TECH CAMPS

The current generation of children are growing up in a world where they don’t remember a time before computers.

Education is the best way to equip them for the new digital age and Fun Tech camps aim to teach them everything from coding to animation, and even robot programming! The non-residential courses are held in Maidenhead, Richmond and Oxford and start from £135. funtech.co.uk/ holiday_camps

Wellington Riding Saddle up this summer with Wellington Riding, one of the UK’s biggest equestrian centres. The expert teams offer week-long junior holiday camps where you can adopt your own horse or pony for the week and get involved in lessons and group activities. wellington-riding.com

[

1ST-4TH AUGUST]

Camp Bestival

descends on to the grounds of Lulworth Castle, Dorset, again this summer for a family friendly, fun festival. There is something for the whole family as the festival guarantees to keep all ages entertained whether you want to visit the Insect Circus, get involved in medieval jousting or chill out to the latest hits from artists such as Gabriella Aplin. campbestival.net

www.independentschoolparent.com

SUMMER 2013 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL PARENT 79

WEST BAY CLUB

Whisk your family away to the Isle of Wight this summer. The West Bay Club is a collection of luxury self-catering cottages with an extensive programme of activities for children.

Plan your perfect UK getaway on the picturesque island with almost 30 miles of seashore. westbayclub.co.uk

[ EDINBURGH ]

The Knight Residence Set up base camp in Edinburgh with the family this summer at The Knight Residence as you explore the city at your own pace. Their offering of awardwinning, beautiful serviced apartments means you can settle and treat it as your own. The five-star residences are in the picturesque old town close to the historic Edinburgh Castle providing the ideal base to make the most of the Scottish capital.

Choose from one to three bedroom properties depending on who the family is carrying in tow. The apartments provide a hotel-style service including unique extras such as a chauffeur-driven car hire service to take you to and from the apartments to make your stay truly special. theknightresidence.co.uk

[ 8-11TH AUGUST ]

Balloon Festival

[ NOTTINGHAMSHIRE ]

SUMMER SCHOOL OF ARTISAN FOOD

Leave the kids at home while you set off to learn the how to create your own artisan delicacies. The School of Artisan Food has added a six-day Summer School to its list of courses. Expert tutors will teach their artisan skills of baking, cheese-making and butchery to students at the magnificent Welbeck Estate.

Courses will run for six days in June and August. schoolofartisanfood.org/summerschool

80 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL PARENT SUMMER 2013

[ SURREY ]

YOUTH MUSIC THEATRE

Europe’s largest annual hot air balloon fiesta hits Bristol again this summer for the 35th year. It was recently rated as one of the top three tourism events by Visit England and is an ideal way to spend a summer’s day out with the whole family.

Free to attend, the fiesta usually attracts 500,000 people over four days. Make sure you make one of the 6am or 6pm mass hot air balloon ascents where hundreds of balloons scatter the Bristol skyline. bristolballoonfiesta.co.uk

Take to the stage this summer with the Youth Music Theatre. Follow in the footsteps of Ed Sheeran with their week-long residential courses.

Participants also gain a certificate from the Trinity Guildhall in Grade 6 “Musical Theatre in Performance”. The course also counts towards The Duke of Edinburgh Award.

What more could you want from a week? youthmusictheatre.org

www.independentschoolparent.com

LIFE

Get away from it all... [ 19TH-25TH JULY ] EDINBURGH FRINGE FESTIVAL SOCIETY

If it’s a completely unique holiday destination you’re after this summer then why not try staying in The Treehouse or The Railway Cottage, which are just two of the exciting properties that Lavender Hill Holidays has on its books. Built by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the cottage (above) is a single-storey stone cottage, which sleeps up to six and is modernised to the highest standards. Prices start from £460.

The Treehouse is a simply stunning treetop location with an idyllic outlook and fantastic gardens. As well as the use of a wooden private hot tub, guests staying at the Treehouse have use of a 35ft by 15ft indoor heated pool, every afternoon, all year round – prices from £625. lavenderhillcottages.co.uk

BATH GUITAR FESTIVAL

For those who get a bit envious of performers on stage at summer festivals, and want to get involved in the music scene, head down to Bath Guitar Festival and Summer School to brush up your skills and mingle with the experts. Suitable for all ages, the workshops cover classical, jazz, blues and song writing and are taught by leading international performers and tutors from around the globe. The courses take place in the beautiful Bath establishments around the city such as the Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution. All prices include a concert pass. igf.org.uk/Summer_School

[ 1ST JULY–7TH SEPTEMBER ] [ 2ND-26TH AUGUST ]

EDINBURGH FRINGE FESTIVAL

Be a part of the world’s largest arts festival this summer as the crowds descend to see the best in theatre, comedy, music, dance and opera. From the 2nd-26th August Edinburgh turns into a hub for artistic activity. edfringe.com

Wild Wise Camps

Wise have been entertaining children each summer since 1999.

WildWise offer an exciting array of courses, camps and events for children, adults and families for those looking to get in touch with the great outdoors. Bushcraft, nature awareness, wildlife and survival skills are just a few of the courses on offer. wildwise.co.uk

www.independentschoolparent.com

GROMIT UNLEASHED

Seventy Gromits, 10 weeks, 1 city. Iconic British character Gromit, from the much-loved Wallace and Gromit films will be part of a public art exhibition in Bristol during the summer months.

Giant sculptures will be decorated by various children’s artists and illustrators such as Gromit creator, Nick Park. gromitunleashed.org.uk

MEMORY LANE

School memories Explorer, author and record-breaking fundraiser Sir Ranulph Fiennes hated his first two years at Eton College, until he learnt how to box…

How would you describe your public school days?

I didn’t like my first two years at Eton because I was “pretty”, and small, so I stood out. I was verbally bullied at school: having 3 elder sisters, a mother, an aunt, but no male figure in the family meant that I was spoilt rotten, and never had to fight back. My life changed, however, when I learnt how to box, thanks to my teacher Reg Hoblyn. I loved it and I never looked back. Until she died a few years ago, I always sent a Christmas card to his widow. I was very happy during my last three years at Eton – I adored it.

Did you find making friends easy?

No, I didn’t. But the art of stegophily (how to climb tall buildings at night) meant that I bonded with a group of five other boys – the late actor, Christopher Cazenove, being one of them, and Jeremy Deedes, the son of legendary journalist Bill Deedes, was also a member of this illustrious group. I had no head for heights and suffered from vertigo but the beauty of climbing at night is that the thrill of danger is present without the full visual impact of the drop below.

Which teacher still means a lot to you to this day?

Dave Callender instilled in me a love of languages, namely French and German.

He was not a housemaster, but I was “up to” (taught by) him between the ages of 15-17. He also taught me how to précis and how to love writing. I have penned over 20 books and it is mainly down to Dave and his teaching that I have been able to master it. I think he did a great job. He was a famous oarsman and Master of Boats at Eton.

© SIR RANULPH FIENNES / RGS-IBG

How would you describe your prep school days?

When I first arrived at Sandroyd in Wiltshire, from South Africa where my family had been living, I must have seemed exotic with my African accent. As a result, I was the centre of attention and gained quite a lot of street cred. I learnt how to fit in by telling tales of the jungle: I used to tell my stories on a Saturday evening after our weekly chocolate bars were given out. I would charge a square of chocolate from each listener.

Who was your “climbing” best friend?

Michael Denny. During one of our night-time climbing sessions on School Hall, he hurt his ankle and was threatened with expulsion unless he revealed who his fellow climber was. But he never let on.

What piece of advice would you give your school-age self?

I would spend time working much, much harder at school in order to get my A levels. Without those, there was no way I was going to get into RMA Sandhurst and fulfil my dream of becoming the Commanding Officer of my late father’s regiment, the Royal Scots Greys.

What was your favourite lesson?

French. I was taught it by David Cornwall, otherwise known as the writer, John le Carré.

Sir Ranulph’s expeditions have raised over £14million for UK charities

What did you want to be when you grew up?

My dream was to follow in my late father’s footsteps and become the Commanding Officer of the Royal Scots Greys.

What’s your view? Discuss on Twitter... @ISParent

❝ I learnt to listen more than I speak. After

all, God gave me two ears and one mouth ❞ 82 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL PARENT SUMMER 2013

Any pranks?

It was the summer after I’d left Eton and it was 4th June – when the school holds its annual speech day and celebrations. We had decided to watch the procession of boats, which is when the best rowers stand up one by and lift their oars and salute the parents who have gathered to watch. My friends and I had borrowed aqualungs and managed to overturn five of the boats during the night-time procession. I had to surface because of a malfunction of my equipment. Dave Callender, the Master of Boats, gave chase but luckily my identity was never revealed because I was still wearing my mask.

What qualities did you learn at school that have stood you in good stead?

I learnt to try not to be aggressive if I was angry and to listen more than I speak.

After all, God gave me two ears and one mouth.

Keep up-to-date with Sir Ranulph Fiennes’ latest expedition at thecoldestjourney.org/ For more information visit... www.independentschoolparent.com

www.independentschoolparent.com

Mauritius Dinarobin Hotel Golf & Spa

The best choice of luxury hotels on the island

As the first hotel company in Mauritius, Beachcomber Hotels had the first pick of the most stunning locations and the best of the beaches when choosing to place its hotels. We now have a choice of eight individual hotels on the island each offering exceptional Mauritian service.

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got everything from indulgent luxury to superb all inclusive options.

All of our hotels offer a superb range or free land and water sports, excellent dinning options and for families free kids clubs and family friendly room options. For golfers Paradis Hotel & Golf Club offers a golfing paradise.

Fly Air Mauritius and arrive on holiday relaxed and refreshed.

Enjoy the friendly, welcoming onboard Mauritian hospitality, take advantage of the excellent in-flight facilities and for a treat upgrade to the superb Business Class and settle in to your own spacious lie-flat cocoon seat.

For the very best Mauritius Holidays call Beachcomber on 01483 445 627

www.beachcombertours.co.uk

Monthly income

beautifully balanced Get on board with the Schroder Managed Monthly High Income Fund We’ve taken a balanced approach, investing across different markets, which should help to smooth returns compared to only investing in shares. It’s an investment fund not a savings account, so please remember the value of your investment could go down as well as up and you may not get back the amount you originally put in. *The expected yield of 5.5% p.a. isn’t guaranteed and shouldn’t be seen as a reliable indicator of future performance. As the annual management charge is taken from capital, this could reduce your investment over time.

www.schroders.co.uk/mmhi

Speak to your financial adviser today

0800 718 777 ** www.schroders.co.uk/mmhi

The fund invests in other funds and its liquidity depends upon the liquidity of those underlying funds. If underlying funds suspend or defer the payment of redemption proceeds, the fund’s ability to meet redemption requests may also be affected. Schroders has expressed its own views and these may change. **Please note that phone calls may be recorded. Issued in March 2013 by Schroder Investments Limited, 31 Gresham Street, London EC2V 7QA. Registered No: 2015527 England. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. UK04759