Introduction

DEAR SOUTH-WEST LONDON PARENTS

Welcome to the ninth annual NappyValleyNet Schools Guide.

A new academic year begins this month as schools continue to ‘Build Back Better’, with child wellbeing at the heart of many new initiatives.

The focus augurs well for pupils’ overall development and educational success, which we cover in our introductory feature.

Less fluid are the choices of where children are educated. Single sex or co-ed, boarding or day, private or state, and London or out-of-town schools? We simplify the options for parents bewildered by so many possibilities.

Similarly, should a 16-year-old take A-levels, IB, degree apprenticeships, T-levels or BTECs? We’ve outlined all their options on page 65.

The impact of AI on every facet of our lives will not escape education, and the challenges are laid bare in page 47’s feature on how AI will supercharge learning.

AI has yet to master creative thinking, a key skill employees will need. We track schools already teaching this more open-ended inquiry to match students with the needs of the modern workplace.

Our regular features on affordability, neurodiversity, tutoring, boarding, open days, registration timelines and Early Years education are also crammed into this issue.

We hope all the information and practical advice contained within these pages will lead you to the best educational home for your child.

Warmest wishes

Founder, Nextville IP Ltd.