London Parents Forum

In this episode, Lauren Lucy Grafton, Senior Education Consultant in the UAE, joins Fiona Hughes D’Aeth, Head of Content Strategy, Independent Schools Show , to explore the journey from Dubai schooling to UK schools and how parents can successfully navigate the admissions process. Together, Lauren and Fiona break down the UK school admissions timeline , including the key ages and year groups when...

This episode features an in-depth discussion with immigration expert Steven Bostock about current UK immigration trends, policies affecting high-net-worth families, and the impact on international education choices. We explore visa options, policy changes, and how the UK compares to other countries in attracting global talent and families.

In this insightful solo interview, Darren shares his extensive experience in art education, focusing on how young creatives can discover their unique voice, navigate university applications, and develop portfolios that truly reflect their potential. Learn practical strategies for mentoring, portfolio building, and choosing the right course to foster genuine artistic growth.

Discover the key differences and advantages of UK and US education pathways, especially for international families considering higher education options. This episode highlights the unique qualities of British schools, curriculum structures, and university applications, with insights from education expert Fiona Hughes-D'eath. Main Topics: The holistic approach and extracurricular opportunities in B...

This episode explores the evolving landscape of university entrance tests, focusing on the SAT and other standardised exams. Hosts Ed and Luke discuss how these tests impact university admissions, preparation strategies, and their broader educational benefits. Key Topics The evolution of university entrance tests Understanding the SAT structure and content Preparation strategies for standardised t...

Ed Ballard and Luke Ellmers discuss the significant changes to the UCAS personal statement and its implications for university applications in the UK. They explore the shift from a free text model to a structured format with three questions, emphasising the importance of motivation, academic readiness and reflection. The conversation also touches on the role of super-curricular activities and the...

The conversation explores the significant increase in diagnosed cases of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) over the past two decades, examining the role of improved diagnostic tools and the impact of modern societal factors on children's mental health. Takeaways There has been a notable increase in ASD cases. Diagnostic tools have improved significantly over the years. Many children were previously u...

Summary This conversation between William Petty and Fiona Hughes D'Aeth explores the evolving landscape of education in Dubai, focusing on the influx of expatriate families, the rapid growth of schools, and the increasing quality of education. Fiona, an expert in the field, discusses the diverse educational offerings, the importance of extracurricular activities, and the cultural richness of the s...

In this podcast episode, Will Petty and Harry Cobb discuss the recent introduction of VAT on independent school fees and its implications for the education sector. They explore the significant number of students leaving independent schools, the rising demand for tutoring, and the challenges faced by schools in justifying their fees. The conversation also touches on the changing dynamics of school...

Summary In this podcast episode, Will and Guy discuss the intricacies of choosing a school, focusing on the importance of school visits. They explore the differences between open days and private tours, the significance of pre-visit research, and the impressions made during arrival and the tour. The conversation emphasises the need for parents to engage with school staff and students, evaluate the...

Summary In this podcast episode, Will Petty and Guy delve into the intricacies of tutoring, particularly examining situations where it might not be suitable to engage a tutor. They consider various factors including age, special educational needs, and the overall effectiveness of tutoring. The discussion also highlights the significance of classroom dynamics, the function of homework, and the rela...

 Summary In this episode, Will and Guy explore the controversial question of whether children should still be doing homework. Drawing on their experiences as teachers, tutors, and parents, they reflect on the practical and emotional challenges homework poses for families, the inconsistencies in how it’s delivered across school types, and the broader impact it can have on learning motivation and f...

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