Applying to competitive independent schools can feel overwhelming. From 11+ and 13+ entrance exams to pre-tests, interviews and school selection strategies, parents are often left wondering what preparation really makes a difference.

In this Independent Schools Show session, admissions experts from Bonas MacFarlane and Think Academy share practical advice on navigating the highly competitive school admissions process. The discussion explores what works, what doesn't, and how families can approach school choices and exam preparation with confidence.

The panel provides expert insights into the realities of 11+ and 13+ admissions, including preparation strategies, common mistakes, timelines, school selection and how to support children without creating unnecessary pressure.

Featuring:

• Nick Huang, Head of Marketing, Think Academy
• William Petty, Director, Bonas MacFarlane Education
• Fiona Hughes D'Aeth, Head of Content Strategy (Consultant), Independent Schools Show (Moderator)

Whether you're just starting to explore independent school admissions or already preparing for entrance exams, this session offers valuable guidance to help families make informed decisions and maximise their chances of success.

Topics covered:

* 11+ admissions advice
* 13+ admissions strategy
* Independent school entrance exams
* School pre-tests explained
* Competitive school admissions
* How to prepare for the 11+
* How to prepare for the 13+
* School choice and admissions planning
* Interview preparation
* Supporting children through the admissions process
* Common admissions mistakes parents make
* Independent school application strategy

The Independent Schools Show brings together leading educators, admissions experts and education specialists to help families navigate every stage of the school admissions journey.

For all news, tickets and future show updates, go to SchoolsShow.co.uk

Instagram - @schoolsshow

What makes a highly academic school different and how can parents tell whether it would be the right environment for their child?

In this Independent Schools Show panel discussion, moderated by Guy Schady-Beckett, Research & Digital Director, three leading London school heads explore what academic excellence looks like in practice, how selective admissions work, and the qualities schools look for when assessing prospective pupils.

The discussion examines the pace of learning, expectations inside and outside the classroom, the admissions process, and the importance of matching a child's personality, strengths and ambitions to the right school environment.

Featuring:

• Anna Paul, Head, South Hampstead High School, GDST
• Rick Clarke, Head, St James Senior Boys' School
• Anne Cotton, Head, King's College School Wimbledon
• Fiona Hughes D'Aeth, Head of Content Strategy (Consultant), Independent Schools Show (Moderator)

The panel shares insights into how highly academic schools identify potential, what families should expect from the admissions process, and how parents can decide whether a selective academic environment will help their child thrive.

Whether you are considering independent schools, selective schools, grammar school alternatives or preparing for competitive admissions, this session offers valuable advice from experienced school leaders.

Topics covered:

* Highly academic schools explained
* Selective school admissions
* How schools assess applicants
* Academic potential and school fit
* Independent school admissions
* Choosing the right school for your child
* Competitive school entry
* School culture and expectations
* Academic challenge and student wellbeing
* What parents should ask at open days

The Independent Schools Show brings together leading educators and experts to help families make informed decisions about their children's education and future success.

For all news, tickets and future show updates, go to SchoolsShow.co.uk

Instagram - @schoolsshow

Should your teenager stay in London and enjoy everything the capital has to offer, or experience the unique opportunities of boarding school life?

In this Independent Schools Show discussion, two leading school leaders explore one of the biggest decisions many families face: choosing between a London day school and a boarding school education outside the capital.

From independence and personal development to friendships, academic opportunities, family life and wellbeing, the panel examines the advantages and challenges of each pathway. The discussion considers how different environments shape young people and how parents can determine which option is the best fit for their child's personality, ambitions and stage of development.

Featuring:

• Jenny Brown, Headmistress, City of London School for Girls
• Eve Jardine-Young, Executive Principal, Cheltenham Ladies' College
Guy Schady-Beckett, Research & Digital Director, Independent Schools Show (Moderator)

The conversation explores what daily life looks like for teenagers in both settings, the benefits of growing up in London, the unique experience of boarding, and the factors families should consider when making this important educational decision.

Whether you're considering independent day schools, boarding schools, or weighing up the long-term benefits of each route, this session provides valuable insights from experienced school leaders.

Topics covered:

* Day school versus boarding school
* Growing up in London
* Boarding school life
* Teen independence and resilience
* School choice for teenagers
* Academic and pastoral opportunities
* Student wellbeing and development
* Independent schools in London
* Boarding schools outside London
* Finding the right environment for your child

The Independent Schools Show brings together leading educators and experts to help families make informed decisions about their children's education, wellbeing and future success.

For all news, tickets and future show updates, go to SchoolsShow.co.uk

Instagram - @schoolsshow

In this Independent Schools Show panel discussion, education leaders explore the often-overlooked benefits of staying at prep school until 13 and why Years 6–8 can play such an important role in a child's academic, social and emotional development.

Moderated by Fiona Hughes D'Aeth, Head of Content Strategy (Consultant) at the Independent Schools Show, the panel examines the differences between 11+ and 13+ entry, the value of additional years in a prep school environment, and how parents can determine which pathway is best suited to their child's needs and future success.

Featuring:

• William Goldsmith, Head, Packwood School
• Dale Wilkins, Executive Director, Boarding Schools' Association (BSA)
• Alex McCullough, Head Elect, Orwell Park School
• Fiona Hughes D'Aeth, Head of Content Strategy (Consultant), Independent Schools Show (Moderator)

The discussion explores how children develop during Years 6–8, the opportunities available through the 13+ route, and the factors families should consider when deciding whether to move schools at 11 or remain in prep school until senior school entry at 13.

Whether you are considering day schools, boarding schools, prep schools or senior schools, this session provides valuable insights into one of the most important decisions in a child's educational journey.

Topics covered:

* 11+ versus 13+ entry
* Should children stay at prep school until 13?
* The benefits of the 13+ route
* Years 6–8 and child development
* Prep school education
* Senior school admissions
* Boarding school pathways
* Choosing the right school transition point
* Academic and pastoral development
* Finding the best educational fit for your child

The Independent Schools Show brings together leading educators and experts to help families make informed decisions about their children's education and future opportunities.

For all news, tickets and future show updates, go to SchoolsShow.co.uk

Instagram - @schoolsshow

Recorded live at the Summer Independent Schools Show 2026 on the Muddy Stilettos Stage, this practical and informative session tackles one of the biggest concerns for families considering independent education: the rising cost of school fees.

With increasing pressure on household finances, the panel cuts through the headlines to offer clear, realistic guidance on how families can plan with confidence. Chaired by Rachel Jane, the conversation explores everything from understanding fee structures and navigating bursaries to thinking ahead about long-term affordability.

This panel included:

• John Maguire, Head - Bishop’s Stortford College
• Rishi Zaveri, Founder & CEO - Lendwise

For all news, tickets and future show updates, go to SchoolsShow.co.uk

Instagram - @schoolsshow

Recorded live at the Summer Independent Schools Show 2026 on the Muddy Stilettos Stage, this inspiring panel explores why one size doesn’t fit all when it comes to education.

Every child learns differently, with their own strengths, challenges and ways of engaging with the world. Chaired by Hero Brown, the discussion looks at how schools are adapting their teaching, pastoral care and wider environments to ensure individuality is recognised, supported and celebrated.

Through practical insights and real examples, the panel explores what parents should look for when choosing a school that will help their child grow in confidence, curiosity and a genuine love of learning.

The panel included:

• Heidi Armstrong, Incoming Head - London Park School, Mayfair, Sixth and Hybrid
• Aidan Sproat-Clements, Founding Head - Alleyn's Hampstead
• Joanna Wright, Head - King Edward's School Witley
• Lydia Kyle, Founding Principal - Queen's Gate School

For all news, tickets and future show updates, go to SchoolsShow.co.uk

Instagram - @schoolsshow

Recorded live at the Summer Independent Schools Show 2026 on the Muddy Stilettos Stage, this candid panel discussion explores one of the biggest decisions parents face: how do you choose the right school for your child?

With so much emphasis on league tables, open days and polished prospectuses, it can be hard to know what really matters. Chaired by Rachel Jane, this practical conversation cuts through the noise to focus on the factors that genuinely shape a child’s school experience - from culture and values to individuality, wellbeing and fit.

The panel features insights from Mark Beard, Alexandra Haydon and Will Goldsmith, who share honest advice on what parents should prioritise and what they can safely ignore when searching for a school where their child can truly thrive.

For all news, tickets and future show updates, go to SchoolsShow.co.uk

Instagram - @schoolsshow

Recorded live at the Summer Independent Schools Show 2026 on the Muddy Stilettos Stage, this thoughtful discussion tackles the question every parent asks first: will my child actually be happy at school?

Before grades, league tables or university destinations, parents want to know that their child feels safe, supported and truly known. Chaired by Hero Brown, the panel explores what happiness at school really means and how strong pastoral care can shape confidence, resilience and a genuine sense of belonging.

Featuring insights from David Goodhew, Jude Lowson and Jesse R Elzinga, the conversation looks at how schools can help children thrive not only academically, but socially and emotionally too. Because when a child feels happy, everything else becomes possible.

For all news, tickets and future show updates, go to SchoolsShow.co.uk

Instagram - @schoolsshow