Is a £25,000-a-Year Private School Worth It In These Economic Times? (A Tutor’s Take)

In these uncertain econmic times, parents from all tax brackets are re-evaluating their approach when it comes to their child’s education.

• Is it really worth paying tens of thousands for my child to attend a top independent school?

• Should my money be spent elsewehere?

• Can we really afford private school fees?

• Will a private education make a significant impact in terms of improving my child’s educational and occupational outcomes?

These are just some of the questions going through the minds of many parents, and it’s perfectly normal.

With some independent day schools costing over £25,000 a year—and boarding schools even more—families are looking at less expensive options to traditional private schooling.

Luckily, the UK is blessed with some outstanding grammar/State schools that provide exceptional learning opportunities and a standard of education that rivals even the most expensive of fee-paying schools.

So, how do you figure out what the best school option is or your child?

As a private tutor who's worked with children from a wide range of schools (including grammar, private, SEND and alternative/hybrid schools), I want to share some straightforward insights that might help parents like yourself to get the clarity needed and make an informed choice that works best for you and your family.

Let’s begin by discussing some key areas:

What Are You Paying For?

Independent schools often claim they offer the following (and more):

• Smaller class sizes (sometimes around 1:8)

• Personalised support

• A wide of extracurricular activities

• Strong alumni connections

• High Oxbridge, Russell Group and Ivy League acceptance rates

• The opportunity for your child to network and socialise with children from elite backgrounds which can help your child to access greater opportunities in future

On the flip side, grammar and outstanding State schools are:

• Selective and very academic

• Frequently at the top of the school performance rankings

• Free, but extremely competitive entrance criteria

• Are less likely to have specialised clubs or programmes that enhance soft skills such as mooting societies and chess clubs

TUTORESS TIP

If your child is really academic and self-sufficient, a grammar school might give you great results for a fraction of the cost. However, if your child requires greater levels of support, a private school might be a better fit.

Culture Fit

The environment and overall vibe of a school can shape your child just as much as the curriculum, teaching approach and academic methodology.

In terms of this, private/independent schools can potentially offer:

• Polished manners and cultural knowledge

• Access to high-end sports (like rowing or polo)

• The opportunity to have global/international friends, many of whom become lifelong friends. This is great for networking and building your child’s global and social network.

• In comparison, Grammar schools usually offer:

• A heavy focus on academic achievement

• A more traditional approach to learning

• High standards and the expectation of overall excellence

TUTORESS TIP

Visit open days, but don’t just listen to the headteacher—observe the students.

Are they confident yet friendly? Competitive or cooperative? Look for a place that feels right for your child's personality.

Value for Money

When assessing whether to enrol your child in a private or State school, don’t just think short term. Consider whether you can realistically afford to pay school fees for the entire duration of your child’s schooling.

Also consider what will happen if your circumstances change. For example, if there’s a job loss, a change to your health or you have additional responsibilities as a carer to another family member or child.

Ask yourself:

• Can I afford to pay my child’s school fees in 3, 4, 5 or 7 years time?

• If my circumstances change, can I still afford to make these payments?

• What sacrifices (if any) will my family have to make in order for my child to attend this particular fee-paying school?

• Will we be able to comfortably make these payments without additional stress to myself or my family?

If you can comfortably afford to pay school fees for your target school and ideally have savings in place in order to pay the fees and any additional school-related costs then opting for a private school makes perfect sense.

However, if there is any uncertainty in the above areas then I would consider exploring the options mentioned towards the end of this article.

An Alternative Approach

If money is tight, don’t overlook the hidden costs of private school (like uniforms, trips, and clubs). If finances are an issue, you might benefit from a hybrid approach while combines attending a grammar/outstanding State school alongside investing in periods of tutoring and specialised mentoring. This hybrid approach of combining the grammar school experience alongside bouts of tutoring, holiday camps, mentoring, coaching, extra curricular activities, frequent travel etc, can offer some children the best of both worlds and could potentially give your child the opportunity to excel academically whilst also developing their soft skills, expanding their cultural capital and developing the social networks, contacts and connections that they might have otherwise gained from attending a private school.

Final Thoughts

The “best” school isn't always the priciest one. It's about finding the school where your child feels safe, inspired, and appropriately challenged. If you're on the fence about this decision, we’re here to help. We offer personalised consultations for families considering their school options, guiding you through everything from entrance exams to long-term education plans. If you’re interested in booking a call, simply complete this form to get in touch.

Beyond the Books: Nurturing Your Child’s Potential for 13+ Success and Lifelong Learning

The pressure around these exams can be intense for both kids and parents. However, with the right support, you can create a space that not only helps your child prepare for exams but fosters a lifelong love of learning. In this article, we’ll share key ways to help your child succeed both in school entrance exams (such as the 11+, 12+ and 13+), as well as in their future studies.

1. Encourage Curiosity and Independence

When it comes to prepping for school entrance exams, structured study sessions are important, but it’s equally important to help your child love learning. Kids who enjoy exploring topics on their own often do better in school.

Encourage your child to dive into subjects they find interesting, even if they aren't exam-related. If they love English, for example, they’ll likely develop a love of reading , analysis and research that helps them later. Hobbies like writing, experiments, or arts can boost their cognitive skills too.

Introduce them to a variety of resources like books, documentaries, and podcasts. You’d be amazed at how much they can learn just by following what they find exciting, which will help them in their exams.

2. Teach Time Management

Rather than cramming at the last minute, teach your child how to manage their time well.

Help them break big tasks into smaller, more manageable parts. Rather than sitting for hours, show them how to set clear goals for each study session. A child who organises specific time slots for reading and practice will build better study habits that will help them later.

Encourage them to use calendars or apps to keep track of deadlines. Involving them in planning helps them take charge of their learning and boosts their organizational skills, which are crucial for school and beyond.

3. Build Emotional Resilience

An often ignored part of preparing for school exams is helping kids deal with stress and anxiety. Children and teenagers can feel overwhelmed, especially with high expectations. Teaching your child to manage these feelings is just as necessary as academic prep.

Create a space where they can talk openly about their worries about exams. Remind them that mistakes are a part of learning, and what matters is how they handle them. Praise their effort instead of just the end result—this helps them understand that skills can grow with hard work.

Help them practice simple relaxation techniques to manage stress. Whether it’s breathing exercises or listening to music, having these tools can make studying less overwhelming. When children feel supported emotionally, they approach challenges with more confidence.

4. Keep a Balanced Routine

It can be easy to become all-consumed with exam prep, but it’s important for your child to find a balance between studying and taking breaks. Well-rounded children who have ample opportunities for relaxation, play, and family-related activities, are often more motivated and focused.

Make physical activity a part of their daily life. Sports, dancing, or even walking can help improve mood and relieve stress. Plus, staying active contributes to better sleep, which is essential for learning.

Encourage creative activities too. Whether it’s drawing, writing, or playing music, these hobbies can provide a great way to relieve stress and develop problem-solving skills.

5. Be a Role Model

Children pick up on how adults behave, so if you want them to thrive, show them the right way. Let them see that learning doesn’t stop when school does. Get involved in discussions and explore new topics together.

Learn alongside your child. If they’re studying a subject, join in by reading a related book or watching a documentary. This not only reinforces that education is a lifelong journey but also gives you both some quality time together.

Also, don’t stress only about grades. Encourage them to enjoy and appreciate the whole learning process. When you both focus on the journey instead of just the outcomes, it makes for a more fulfilling experience.

6. Build Good Study Habits

While doing well on the 13+ is great, it’s just the starting point in their learning journey. By helping your child develop good study habits now, you set them up for success in other areas later. Teach them to review regularly, take breaks, and set realistic goals—these skills will come in handy throughout their education.

Make self-reflection a habit too. After tests or assignments, ask your child what worked and what didn’t. This helps them learn to take charge of their own education.

Maximising your child's potential is about more than preparing them for one exam; it's about equipping them for a future filled with growth, curiosity, and lifelong learning. With your help, they will be ready to succeed academically and in life.

We hope you enjoyed this article and look forward to supporting your child’s love of learning.

Best wishes,

The Tutoress.

How to Effectively Use Study Techniques to Boost Your Learning

No matter how ‘smart’ or intelligent you are, the truth is that studying is difficult. However, with the right tricks, it can become easier and, dare I say it, enjoyable. Whether you're prepping for a test or just trying to keep up with school, using effective and evidence-backed study methods can make a tremendous difference.

Over the years, I've worked with hundreds of students and tried different approaches, and I want to share some of the best study tips that make the greatest difference. I’ve kept this article short and concise so that you can take in the most important information in the quickest and easiest way possible.

Approach 1: Active Recall

One of my favourite revision techniques is active recall. Instead of just reading over your notes, try to remember the information. This really gets your brain working and helps with retention.

For example, when getting ready for a test, I ask students to recall key facts or ideas without looking. I might use practice questions or flashcards. When learning about a language devices, I might ask the student to explain what their favourite device is or I might incorporate an App like Quizlet and encourage the student to actively recall what they’ve learnt so that they don’t forget it.

Bonus Tip:

Apps like Anki or Quizlet are great for making digital flashcards. Be sure to test yourself regularly, even during ‘non-academic’ activities or throughout the day.

Approach 2: Spaced Repetition

Spaced repetition is about revisiting material at intervals. Studies show this helps you remember things longer than cramming does. When I'm helping students, I suggest spacing out their review sessions. For a 12+ student who’s trying to improve their vocabulary, we might go over specific words oday, review them tomorrow, and then again a few days later. This way, the student’s brain has time to process and remember what they’ve learned. You can use apps like Anki or just set reminders on your phone to help with this.

Approach 3: The Pomodoro Technique:

The Pomodoro Technique is perfect for those who find it hard to focus. It's easy: study for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. After four cycles, take a longer break of 15 to 30 minutes. During my tutoring sessions, we study for 25 minutes, take a quick break to stretch or grab a snack, then do it again. After four sessions, we take a longer break. This helps keep attention sharp without burning out.

Bonus Tip:

Use a timer or an app to keep track. Once you get into it, the time flies.

Approach 4: Mind Mapping

Mind mapping is a technique I find really helpful, especially for tricky subjects. It breaks down big topics into smaller pieces and shows how they connect. It works well for subjects where you need to see how ideas relate. When I work with students on mind maps, we start with a main concept like “comprehension skills” and branch out to different parts, adding details. This makes it easier to see everything together. You don't need fancy materials—just some paper and colored pens will work.

Approach 5: Feynman Technique

The Feynman Technique is all about learning by teaching someone else. If you can explain it simply, you've got a good grasp of it. I ask students to explain a topic as if they're teaching it to someone younger. If they’re learning algebra, I might have them teach me how to solve for x. This often reveals areas they don’t completely understand, giving us a chance to go over those together.

Bonus Tip:

You can pretend to teach a pet or an imaginary friend. The aim is to simplify and clarify the material in your mind.

Approach 6. Chunking

When there’s a lot to learn, chunking helps by breaking the info into smaller, manageable parts. This is super helpful for memorising lists or complicated processes. For instance, if students are prepping for a comprehension exam, I help them to group similar revision topics together. This way, instead of memorising each area alone, they can connect related aspects

Approach 7. Create The Right Environment

The place you study can really impact how well you learn. A messy or noisy area makes focusing hard, while a tidy, quiet spot helps you concentrate. I always encourage students to find a proper study space, whether it's a quiet corner of their room or a spot in the library. One student struggled to concentrate at home, so we found a coffee shop with fewer distractions. Sometimes just changing where you study can make a big difference. Also, keeping phones out of sight or on silent can minimise distractions.

Approach 8. Self-Assessment

It's essential to check in with yourself on how you’re doing. I often ask students to think about what they’ve learned and explain anything that’s still unclear. This helps them stay on track and refine their study habits. During my sessions, we do regular check-ins. After practice tests, I ask what went well and where they struggled, so we can focus on those areas next time. The more you evaluate your progress, the better you can adjust your routine.

I hope these tips have been helpful. For further tips and resources, don’t forget to sign up to my free vocabulary kit. You’ll receive additional resources after doing so.

Best wishes,

The Tutoress.

8 Timeless Games Your Child Can Play to Spark Their Imagination—No Screens Needed

In today’s tech-driven world, it's easy for kids to get swept up in screens, but some of the best memories come from simple, screen-free fun. Inspired by the games many of us enjoyed as children, these classic activities don’t need fancy gadgets or expensive equipment—just a little creativity and imagination.

1. Shadow Puppets: Create Your Own Story

All you need is a light source and your hands to turn a blank wall into an exciting theatre of shadows. Kids can experiment with different shapes to make animals, characters, or even whole scenes. Once the shadows are in place, let the storytelling begin! You can take it in turns to perform your own mini play, inventing tales as you go, or even create a shadowy world for your characters to inhabit.

2. Story Building: Pass the Story

This one’s a brilliant way to encourage creativity and teamwork. Start with a sentence like, “Once upon a time, in a faraway kingdom, there was a dragon who loved to dance…” and then take it in turns to add a sentence. The story evolves as each person adds their twist—suddenly, you’re up to your eyes in magical creatures, talking animals, and enchanted forests! Make it extra fun by introducing quirky rules, like adding something unexpected or making characters speak in funny voices.

3. Outdoor Scavenger Hunt: Nature’s Treasure

Create a list of things to find outdoors, such as “a leaf shaped like a heart” or “a rock that’s smooth and shiny.” You can make the scavenger hunt as simple or as adventurous as you like. Encourage the kids to use their imaginations—perhaps they’re searching for hidden treasures, rare plants, or magical creatures along the way. It's a perfect way to explore nature, stay active, and spark creativity.

4. The Floor is Lava

A real favourite among kids! The concept is simple: pretend the floor is made of lava, and you must avoid touching it at all costs. You can set up “safe zones” using furniture or objects around the house, or if you’re outdoors, find rocks, trees, or other natural features to hop between. Make it more exciting by adding a theme—maybe you’re on a pirate ship, or perhaps you’re exploring an enchanted castle. The possibilities are endless!

5. Invisible Ball: A Game of Imagination

Here’s a fun one that only requires a group and plenty of space. Imagine there’s an invisible ball flying around, and you need to pass it to the next person. Of course, you can’t see it, so everyone has to act as though it’s real—catching, throwing, and dodging as if it’s made of rubber. You can make the “ball” even more exciting by changing its size or giving it special powers, like the ability to grow or fly. The more creative you get, the more fun it becomes.

6. Treasure Map Adventure

Who doesn’t love a good treasure hunt? Create a simple treasure map with clues that lead to hidden treasures around the house or garden. These treasures could be anything from small toys to everyday items you’ve hidden away. Along the way, add riddles or obstacles to make the adventure more challenging. Whether you're a pirate, an explorer, or a time traveller, this game is all about the thrill of the quest.

7. Nature Charades: Animal Antics

This is charades with a twist. Instead of the usual game of acting out random phrases, choose animals, plants, or natural events to mimic. Think along the lines of “a tree growing,” “a bird flying,” or “a rainstorm arriving.” It’s not only great fun, but also a brilliant way for children to connect with the natural world while honing their creativity and acting skills. Plus, it’s sure to lead to plenty of giggles!

8. Role-Playing Adventures: Be Whoever You Want

One of the easiest ways to fuel imagination is through role-play. Whether you’re pretending to be pirates, knights, astronauts, or superheroes, there’s no limit to the characters and worlds you can create. All you need is a bit of space, some simple props (think old clothes, cardboard boxes, or a toy sword), and your imagination. Together, you can build entire worlds, face challenges, and embark on epic adventures—all from the comfort of your living room or garden.=\

These games are a fantastic way to engage your children in imaginative play, helping them develop problem-solving skills, foster social interaction, and boost creativity—all without needing a screen or a pricey toy. So, next time the kids are bored, why not give one of these old-school activities a go? You’ll be surprised how much fun you can have with nothing more than your imagination!

How to Encourage Independent Play and Give Your Kids (and Yourself) More Freedom

As parents, we all want to give our children the best opportunities for growth, learning, and success. One of the most powerful yet often overlooked ways to nurture your child’s development is by encouraging independent play. When children are allowed to explore, problem-solve, and create on their own, they build essential skills like confidence, resilience, and decision-making. However, this doesn’t always come naturally, and many parents feel the urge to step in when their child struggles. In this article, we’ll explore why independent play is so crucial, how to create the right environment for it, and practical tips to help your child grow more self-sufficient—benefiting both them and you in the long run.

When children face challenges during independent play—whether it's a puzzle that doesn’t quite fit or a task that seems too difficult—they can easily become frustrated, sometimes resulting in tantrums or meltdowns. As a parent, it’s natural to want to step in and solve the problem for them, but doing so too quickly can prevent them from learning valuable problem-solving skills. Instead of rushing to their aid, try taking a step back and giving them the space to work through their frustrations. For instance, if your child is struggling with a puzzle piece that won’t fit, resist the urge to immediately fix it for them. Instead, allow them a few moments to process their emotions and attempt to solve the problem on their own. If they’re still stuck, offer gentle guidance, but only after they've made an effort to find a solution themselves. This patience not only helps them build resilience but also boosts their confidence in navigating challenges independently.

There are several reasons why it’s important to give your child the chance to make mistakes, work around their frustrations and resolve issues on their own. Firstly, providing too much help or intervention during independent play decreases their confidence. When parents intervene too much during their child’s playtime, the child can lose a sense of autonomy and feel as though they’re being ‘watched’. It’s almost like an adult working but having someone constantly looking over their shoulder. Independent play is so powerful because it gives children a chance to express themselves, explore and make their own decisions. It enables them to think about their choices and articulate themselves. When this is taken away or thwarted, it can have negative effects on that child’s confidence and self-belief. It can also stifle their ability to make their own decisions or use initiative. These are all key skills needed in order for children to thrive in all areas of life - especially in education. If you want your child to be more confident in tackling their own challenges, it’s important to encourage them to play independently and not intervene excessively.

Now that we’ve addressed why independent play is so important, let’s delve into some tips for encouraging your child to play in ways that help to improve their social and academic skills.

Set Up an Engaging Play Space

Creating a safe, inviting space for your child to play independently is a big first step. Think of it as their little “world” where they can explore without much interference. You don’t need a large area or a complex setup; just a few key things:

• Open-ended toys like blocks, dolls, art supplies, or animal figurines that allow kids to create and build stories on their own.

• Comfort items such as a cosy rug or small pillows, making the space feel inviting.

• Easy accessibility to toys so they don’t need help reaching or finding things. Making toys easily accessible doesn’t need to require spending lots of money - you can simply store toys in open/easy-to-reach boxes or transparent containers so that your child can see them and they’re easily accessible. 

Having a designated play area. Once again, this doesn’t require you to have a massive house or tons of space, simply dedicating a corner of your living room or your child’s bedroom to play will suffice. By creating a special area dedicated to play, children begin to associate that space with solo activities, fostering a sense of independence and self-reliance.

2. Start Small and Gradually Increase Independent Play Time

For kids who aren’t used to playing alone, diving into long stretches of independent play can feel intimidating. Start with just 5 to 10 minutes of solo play, gradually extending the time as they get more comfortable. Set an activity up for them and encourage them to play while you stay nearby, perhaps reading or working on a quiet task. Over time, you can start stepping away for a few minutes at a time.

Patience is key here. Independent play is a skill that grows with time. By increasing playtime slowly, you’ll build your child’s comfort level and confidence, reducing the likelihood of frustration or resistance.

3. Encourage Self-Initiated Play

Encouraging kids to start play activities on their own helps them learn to create fun without constant prompts. One effective way to inspire self-initiated play is by setting up “invitations to play.” These are simply prepared play setups that spark curiosity. For example:

• Set up a mini animal safari with toy animals and natural materials like rocks and sticks.

• Arrange some markers and blank paper as an “art station.”

• Place building blocks in a fun, challenging configuration that invites completion.

These setups don’t need to be elaborate. The goal is to ignite your child’s imagination and let them decide how to engage with the materials on their own terms.

4. Resist the Urge to Intervene

When you see your child struggling with a puzzle or trying to figure out how to build a structure, resist the urge to jump in. Let them grapple with the challenge a bit. Struggle is an essential part of learning, and it teaches patience and perseverance. By allowing them to navigate minor frustrations, you’re helping them build resilience.

If they seem genuinely stuck, ask open-ended questions rather than giving direct answers. For example, if they’re frustrated with a puzzle, you might ask, “What piece do you think would fit here?” instead of simply doing it for them.

5. Create a Consistent Routine

Children thrive on routine, and incorporating independent play into the daily schedule can make it a more natural part of their day. Choose a time each day for independent play—whether it’s in the morning or after lunch—and stick to it as much as possible. Over time, your child will come to expect this quiet, solo playtime, making them more comfortable with it.

Incorporate small transitions, like a quick song or story before playtime, to signal that independent play is about to begin. Consistency helps children adapt to routines faster, which in turn, builds confidence in their ability to play on their own.

6. Praise Efforts Toward Independence

Celebrating small wins helps reinforce your child’s progress and motivates them to keep going. When you notice them playing on their own—even if it’s just for a short time—acknowledge it with positive reinforcement. Rather than saying “Good job playing alone,” you could say, “I loved seeing the story you created with those animals!” This lets them know you’re proud of their creativity, not just the fact that they played solo.

Positive reinforcement doesn’t always have to be verbal. A high-five, smile, or even a small reward, like a sticker, can go a long way in making them feel proud of their accomplishment.

Teaching children to play independently is a gradual process, but the benefits are well worth the effort. Kids gain confidence, creativity, and problem-solving skills while parents gain time to recharge. By taking small steps, creating a welcoming play environment, and praising their progress, you’ll help them develop a love for independent play that will benefit them for years to come. Embrace the small wins, and remember: a little patience goes a long way in fostering a child’s independence.

Here’s to your child’s success,

The Tutoress.