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Private or state school education, which would you choose for your children?
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The comments on the term time holiday got me thinking, never a good thing. Currently approximately 7% of the population are educated privately. As adults those 7% go on to hold more than 70% of the top jobs. This isn't a reason to have your child privately educated, as a top job doesn't guarantee happiness. There are other benefits of a child being privately educated but are they enough for you to make sacrifices. A number of families do this, to in their opinion give their children a good start in life. Your education is one of the few things in life that can never be taken away from you. Would you sacrifice holidays, changing your car so often and other such luxuries, or do you feel that the state system adequately gives your children the education they need? Does every child matter and receive the individual attention needed for them to flourish? Or are they eaten up by an establishment that is too rigid in it's approach? I'm interested to know how many would choose private over state given the choice and the means to pay for it? I know ppl who have the means, some choose state, some private. Their decisions were also based on their children being able to gain places at outstanding state schools or not. Look forward to reading your comments  |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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Given the choice I think most would opt for the best possible education for their kids. And nowadays that probably means (not exclusively but mostly) a private education.
However having the means / funds to do so is the issue isn't it? It's pretty damn expensive to pay decent school fees.
An interesting stat re: the number of privately educated kids in top jobs. I wonder how many of those top jobs are held by an even smaller elite though? The monied gentry? Sometimes it's not what you know, it's who you know and who Mummy and Daddy are that secures you your job.
I would like to think that all kids would have the chance to flourish through our education system and real talent properly harnessed.
I'm not naive enough to believe that this happens in practice though. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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I've probably got a job that means I could afford to privately educate if I had kids, but wouldn't choose to. Not because of the money, but don't agree with private education in principle - a good education shouldn't be limited to those with money. Also, I would want my kids to grow up amongst other regular children (although in a well-to-do catchment area), not just kids from the 1% (or 7%). |
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"Given the choice I think most would opt for the best possible education for their kids. And nowadays that probably means (not exclusively but mostly) a private education.
"
(Sorry, I cut the other sentences to keep the post shorter)
I would say most would opt for the best possible childhood for their kids.
In my opinion, that is a balance between getting a good education, as well as enjoying childhood time as a family and with friends.
If attending a private school meant working all hours god sent chasing the dollar to send them there, I would say no. If it meant giving up quality family time then I would say no. Same if the hours worked made the parents more stressed and less happy around the children.
I guess the 70% of top jobs may be populated with privately educated kids. But is earning £500k pa the only aspiration for your kids? I want mine to have great, well paid jobs, where they can do what they want and feel fulfilled in whatever they choose to do. But most of all I want them to be happy now and in future. |
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"Given the choice I think most would opt for the best possible education for their kids. And nowadays that probably means (not exclusively but mostly) a private education.
However having the means / funds to do so is the issue isn't it? It's pretty damn expensive to pay decent school fees.
An interesting stat re: the number of privately educated kids in top jobs. I wonder how many of those top jobs are held by an even smaller elite though? The monied gentry? Sometimes it's not what you know, it's who you know and who Mummy and Daddy are that secures you your job.
I would like to think that all kids would have the chance to flourish through our education system and real talent properly harnessed.
I'm not naive enough to believe that this happens in practice though. "
There are many articles about it being who you you know, not what you know when it comes to the top jobs |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"Given the choice I think most would opt for the best possible education for their kids. And nowadays that probably means (not exclusively but mostly) a private education.
(Sorry, I cut the other sentences to keep the post shorter)
I would say most would opt for the best possible childhood for their kids.
In my opinion, that is a balance between getting a good education, as well as enjoying childhood time as a family and with friends.
If attending a private school meant working all hours god sent chasing the dollar to send them there, I would say no. If it meant giving up quality family time then I would say no. Same if the hours worked made the parents more stressed and less happy around the children.
I guess the 70% of top jobs may be populated with privately educated kids. But is earning £500k pa the only aspiration for your kids? I want mine to have great, well paid jobs, where they can do what they want and feel fulfilled in whatever they choose to do. But most of all I want them to be happy now and in future."
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"Given the choice I think most would opt for the best possible education for their kids. And nowadays that probably means (not exclusively but mostly) a private education.
(Sorry, I cut the other sentences to keep the post shorter)
I would say most would opt for the best possible childhood for their kids.
In my opinion, that is a balance between getting a good education, as well as enjoying childhood time as a family and with friends.
If attending a private school meant working all hours god sent chasing the dollar to send them there, I would say no. If it meant giving up quality family time then I would say no. Same if the hours worked made the parents more stressed and less happy around the children.
I guess the 70% of top jobs may be populated with privately educated kids. But is earning £500k pa the only aspiration for your kids? I want mine to have great, well paid jobs, where they can do what they want and feel fulfilled in whatever they choose to do. But most of all I want them to be happy now and in future."
Also would your child thrive being schooled in such a high pressured environment? Would they be happy? |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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State education every time.
Education is more than getting exam results to my mind.
Being able to communicate with a wide range of people from different backgrounds is important.
Plus most private schools are single sex which I disagree with too. |
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"State education every time.
Education is more than getting exam results to my mind.
Being able to communicate with a wide range of people from different backgrounds is important.
Plus most private schools are single sex which I disagree with too."
I'm not a fan of single sex education either |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"State education every time.
Education is more than getting exam results to my mind.
Being able to communicate with a wide range of people from different backgrounds is important.
Plus most private schools are single sex which I disagree with too."
The number of single sex private schools had halved in last 20 years, apparently.
Some research done a few years back, I think in 2009, showed students from single sex schools were more likely to go on to higher education and they scored higher in tests.
Though i think it depends on the child as to what will benefit it more, but with the seemingly ever expanding range of out of school activities children can do, it makes me think they'd get interaction with the opposite sex elsewhere.
Personally, if I had children I'd home educate. |
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By *izadoCouple
over a year ago
Keighley |
I was fortunate enough to go to both types of schools.
As such i can see the pros and cons.
Ultimately my English grammar and spelling is still what i consider poor.
But my maths is excellent, and i would have what people consider a top proffesional job.
My kids were given the choice, of school they would like to go to. And ultimately they are happy. That was the priority for me.
As i have done well in life, even though on paper my start may have been considered poor.
Single parent, council house upbringing etc.
Reality was i had a great mum, who gave me everything she could.
And that is all that's required. If parents put time and effort into looking after their children, those children will go onto be happy in life. Regardless of how some may judge them on income or job.
Mike.
Oh I'm as bad as anyone else at judging people though
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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There are some fantasic grammar schools who out perform some private schools. So parents use private education to age 11 then switch to the good grammars.
Regarding single sex schools I think it suits some students. Not all but some. Most sixth forms are mixed sex even in schools that are single sex from years 7-11. |
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By *randMrsPCouple
over a year ago
Nr Salisbury |
"The comments on the term time holiday got me thinking, never a good thing. Currently approximately 7% of the population are educated privately. As adults those 7% go on to hold more than 70% of the top jobs. This isn't a reason to have your child privately educated, as a top job doesn't guarantee happiness. There are other benefits of a child being privately educated but are they enough for you to make sacrifices. A number of families do this, to in their opinion give their children a good start in life. Your education is one of the few things in life that can never be taken away from you. Would you sacrifice holidays, changing your car so often and other such luxuries, or do you feel that the state system adequately gives your children the education they need? Does every child matter and receive the individual attention needed for them to flourish? Or are they eaten up by an establishment that is too rigid in it's approach? I'm interested to know how many would choose private over state given the choice and the means to pay for it? I know ppl who have the means, some choose state, some private. Their decisions were also based on their children being able to gain places at outstanding state schools or not. Look forward to reading your comments "
I went to a good prep school and then on to one of the top 10 public schools. My children go to a local state funded school. When I was at school the fees would have been achievable for me now, at a struggle. However, today, for my 3 I would be looking at over £80k per year (just checked the current fees on my Alma Mate's website  ). That's not achievable! More importantly, knowing parents of kids and staff there now, the whole dynamic of the school has changed. Because the fee's have gone up far more than earnings, the elitism is far more of a problem now.
Hand on heart, if my numbers came in and removed all financial considerations, I wouldn't send my kids to any of the local public schools. I really mean that. We're lucky as my kids are well balanced but highly academic and the local schools are excellent. If that wasn't the case, it would mean difficult decisions. As it is, I'm well aware we are lucky.
I'll get off my soapbox now! As you can tell, this is something I feel strongly about! |
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"The comments on the term time holiday got me thinking, never a good thing. Currently approximately 7% of the population are educated privately. As adults those 7% go on to hold more than 70% of the top jobs. This isn't a reason to have your child privately educated, as a top job doesn't guarantee happiness. There are other benefits of a child being privately educated but are they enough for you to make sacrifices. A number of families do this, to in their opinion give their children a good start in life. Your education is one of the few things in life that can never be taken away from you. Would you sacrifice holidays, changing your car so often and other such luxuries, or do you feel that the state system adequately gives your children the education they need? Does every child matter and receive the individual attention needed for them to flourish? Or are they eaten up by an establishment that is too rigid in it's approach? I'm interested to know how many would choose private over state given the choice and the means to pay for it? I know ppl who have the means, some choose state, some private. Their decisions were also based on their children being able to gain places at outstanding state schools or not. Look forward to reading your comments
I went to a good prep school and then on to one of the top 10 public schools. My children go to a local state funded school. When I was at school the fees would have been achievable for me now, at a struggle. However, today, for my 3 I would be looking at over £80k per year (just checked the current fees on my Alma Mate's website ). That's not achievable! More importantly, knowing parents of kids and staff there now, the whole dynamic of the school has changed. Because the fee's have gone up far more than earnings, the elitism is far more of a problem now.
Hand on heart, if my numbers came in and removed all financial considerations, I wouldn't send my kids to any of the local public schools. I really mean that. We're lucky as my kids are well balanced but highly academic and the local schools are excellent. If that wasn't the case, it would mean difficult decisions. As it is, I'm well aware we are lucky.
I'll get off my soapbox now! As you can tell, this is something I feel strongly about! "
Stay on it you look very good up there, I think most parents feel strongly about education |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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If i had the money I would definitely have my children privately educated at a school that puts as much emphasis on outdoor and physical activities as being stuck in a classroom. My kids have very active, hectic lives outside of school and the state school system doesn't support them or give them any leeway to help them achieve their goals. It's all about ticking boxes. |
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"There are some fantasic grammar schools who out perform some private schools. So parents use private education to age 11 then switch to the good grammars.
Regarding single sex schools I think it suits some students. Not all but some. Most sixth forms are mixed sex even in schools that are single sex from years 7-11. "
State grammar schools will always outperform private schools as they only take the cream. We need more state grammars |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"There are some fantasic grammar schools who out perform some private schools. So parents use private education to age 11 then switch to the good grammars.
Regarding single sex schools I think it suits some students. Not all but some. Most sixth forms are mixed sex even in schools that are single sex from years 7-11.
State grammar schools will always outperform private schools as they only take the cream. We need more state grammars "
There were entrance exams for Newcastle High school I don't remember about the Christian brothers one. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"If it helps I went to a few expensive private schools. 
Did you find that it helped you?
Dunno I got expelled  "
I'm gonna go with disappointed parents and waste of money, it was quite hard to get in as well. And you had to use a fountain pen.  |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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Even if i could have afforded it i wouldn't have sent my children to a private school. I have had and still do have lots of contact with children who are at a private school plus adults who used to go to a private school and i didn't want my children to end up like those children and adults.
My children are lovely balanced people and have great jobs, earn well and, most important, they are happy |
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"If it helps I went to a few expensive private schools.
Did you find that it helped you?
Dunno I got expelled
I'm gonna go with disappointed parents and waste of money, it was quite hard to get in as well. And you had to use a fountain pen. "
You crack me up, a fountain pen pmsl  |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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When in Primary school all ours attended Private school as it worked out cheaper than daycare when they were pre school age and thankfully all secured bursaries for the rest of their education, Then our older sons went to Grammar school for their Secondary Education, but our youngest two are now in a Comprehensive School, which happens to be in the top 10% of the countries schools and the best in the local authority, beating any if the Grammar schools in the district..
So my thoughts are Private isn't always the best ... |
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"Even if i could have afforded it i wouldn't have sent my children to a private school. I have had and still do have lots of contact with children who are at a private school plus adults who used to go to a private school and i didn't want my children to end up like those children and adults.
My children are lovely balanced people and have great jobs, earn well and, most important, they are happy "
Either education can result in adults/children you wouldn't want to associate with |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"If it helps I went to a few expensive private schools.
Did you find that it helped you?
Dunno I got expelled
I'm gonna go with disappointed parents and waste of money, it was quite hard to get in as well. And you had to use a fountain pen.
You crack me up, a fountain pen pmsl "
Seriously we had to have a big list of shit, including cricket flannels and a fountain pen and a set of compasses and I think they were pretty particular what sort of bag you could carry it in.
Man could you have fun with ink cartridges, tipex and science lab gas taps |
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"If it helps I went to a few expensive private schools.
Did you find that it helped you?
Dunno I got expelled
I'm gonna go with disappointed parents and waste of money, it was quite hard to get in as well. And you had to use a fountain pen.
You crack me up, a fountain pen pmsl
Seriously we had to have a big list of shit, including cricket flannels and a fountain pen and a set of compasses and I think they were pretty particular what sort of bag you could carry it in.
Man could you have fun with ink cartridges, tipex and science lab gas taps "
Expelled you say? I wonder why lol |
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By *randMrsPCouple
over a year ago
Nr Salisbury |
"State education every time.
Education is more than getting exam results to my mind.
Being able to communicate with a wide range of people from different backgrounds is important.
Plus most private schools are single sex which I disagree with too."
I could not agree with you more re communication. When I was at school, there was a great mix of backgrounds. Parents were normal professionals, military, "normal" business owners, farmers, actors, etc. That meant a lot of the kids came from backgrounds that were often comfortable, some times relatively poor but rarely "rich". Even the car park was relatively mundane! Mostly normal family cars. That's not the case now. It's Range Rover, Porsche, etc. The fees have meant it's really only within the reach of the truly wealthy.
I believe this does not lead to well rounded kids that have the ability to communicate and more importantly, empathise with, people from all backgrounds. Whenever I'm asked what my education did for me, I always say that it gave me the ability communicate successfully. Hence my feelings on this topic!
PS At the time my school was co-ed for the last two years and I agree with your thoughts on single sex education.
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"Reading has two of the top grammar schools in the country, one girls only, the other boys only.
"
And despite being single sex schools they obviously do well. I thought boys especially achieved better results at single sex schools or is my thinking wrong ? I just kind of assumed that. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"If it helps I went to a few expensive private schools.
Did you find that it helped you?
Dunno I got expelled
I'm gonna go with disappointed parents and waste of money, it was quite hard to get in as well. And you had to use a fountain pen.
You crack me up, a fountain pen pmsl
Seriously we had to have a big list of shit, including cricket flannels and a fountain pen and a set of compasses and I think they were pretty particular what sort of bag you could carry it in.
Man could you have fun with ink cartridges, tipex and science lab gas taps
Expelled you say? I wonder why lol "
I cannot tell a lie so I won't tell you.
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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there is a private school and also a very good secondary school where I live, and they are literally opposite each other..
I could have sent my son to the private school on a scholarship but he didn't want to go as he would rather be with his friends at the secondary school, where he is now thriving...
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I had a private education, I didnt do a great job in school.(hated it) Think Mum thought it was a way for me to marry well. HaHa! I was such a disappointment, To put me in a Private education but not be able to keep up with all the trimmings in my opinion is a waste.She couldnt afford decent clothes or holidays or school trips so it just left me on the outside.
When we had children we were struggling buying a home etc so we moved into the catchment of the best schools in the area. My kids both did extremly well and went to Uni. They both work hard have great jobs. They work for themselves and have built business.
I do not regret for one moment taking that decision. We had holidays and a car and lived within our means.
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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i had normal educatgion but did get my A levels and went on to university and always had a job, feel sorry for the youngsters these days hardly any jobs about |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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I went to a quite exclusive private school, it's safe to say I was not as academically gifted as some. I left a reputable uni with a Desmond but still ended up with a very good city job as my school friends father got me a placement. That would not have happened had I have gone to state school.
It's not only about the education it's in some way more importantly the circle of friends you keep.
I've had this conversation with many people of the years and people who went to state school say they became tradesmen or factory workers because someone they knew got them the job, hence, had they known Bankers, Dpctors or Solicitors things may have been different. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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I suppose it depends on what you want for your children. I value success on experiences in life that make you happy not wealth. In my own opinnion Schools are only there for conditioning the real education is at home and how we bring our kids up in this world. Saying that 10 years ago when I didnt have kids I would of gone for private education. But having a child with Autism opens your mind up completely and I look at education completely different these days
. |
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My boys attend/attended a small local private school from 4 til 16. Not the most expensive in our area of Essex admittedly but only small class sizes of 18 per class..but in year 11 and in some subjects they only had 3/4 children which gave them the time with the teachers. My eldest did ok in his GCSEs..and imo better than he would of if he had attended our local state schools. As for the money that depends on what your willing to sacrifice. They do longer days but get 8 weeks off for summer which they love. |
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My boys attend/attended a small local private school from 4 til 16. Not the most expensive in our area of Essex admittedly but only small class sizes of 18 per class..but in year 11 and in some subjects they only had 3/4 children which gave them the time with the teachers. My eldest did ok in his GCSEs..and imo better than he would of if he had attended our local state schools. As for the money that depends on what your willing to sacrifice. They do longer days but get 8 weeks off for summer which they love. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"Reading has two of the top grammar schools in the country, one girls only, the other boys only.
And despite being single sex schools they obviously do well. I thought boys especially achieved better results at single sex schools or is my thinking wrong ? I just kind of assumed that."
I think it's girls who do better at single sex schools. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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I'm biased as we have a very good high performing secondary school nearby. I work with and know many people that went to private school and to be honest, they are hardly excelling at their careers, so I'm not sure it really does offer the best start for all children, I'm sure it all comes down to who you know not what you know.
The other thing i've noticed some privately educated people have a greater sense of entitlement so not sure it makes for the nicest people. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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If i had children and I had enough money I'd opt for single sex fee paying school.
If I didn't have the money I'd opt for a single sex Catholic school. I went to a girls Catholic school, and I think it put me at a significant advantage for various aspects of my life. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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I've always said if I could, I'd send my boys private. With one child who is exceptionally clever and one who is struggling, private school would offer them both more of what they need, although I adore the school they are currently at and they have done loads for them both but that's because they have come from a primary school with 650 pupils to one with 220, so it's easier for support to be offered. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"Even if i could have afforded it i wouldn't have sent my children to a private school. I have had and still do have lots of contact with children who are at a private school plus adults who used to go to a private school and i didn't want my children to end up like those children and adults.
My children are lovely balanced people and have great jobs, earn well and, most important, they are happy
Either education can result in adults/children you wouldn't want to associate with "
I'm sure that's true however every working day i have contact with adults who went to private schools and children who are there now and i didn't want my children to be like them. They might have great results in their education but not one of them is a nice person. |
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"Even if i could have afforded it i wouldn't have sent my children to a private school. I have had and still do have lots of contact with children who are at a private school plus adults who used to go to a private school and i didn't want my children to end up like those children and adults.
My children are lovely balanced people and have great jobs, earn well and, most important, they are happy
Either education can result in adults/children you wouldn't want to associate with
I'm sure that's true however every working day i have contact with adults who went to private schools and children who are there now and i didn't want my children to be like them. They might have great results in their education but not one of them is a nice person."
Bad parenting and being spoilt is usually to blame not their education. Children tend to learn behaviour and attitudes from parents despite their schooling. It's unfortunate you have only encountered stereotypes |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"Even if i could have afforded it i wouldn't have sent my children to a private school. I have had and still do have lots of contact with children who are at a private school plus adults who used to go to a private school and i didn't want my children to end up like those children and adults.
My children are lovely balanced people and have great jobs, earn well and, most important, they are happy
Either education can result in adults/children you wouldn't want to associate with
I'm sure that's true however every working day i have contact with adults who went to private schools and children who are there now and i didn't want my children to be like them. They might have great results in their education but not one of them is a nice person.
Bad parenting and being spoilt is usually to blame not their education. Children tend to learn behaviour and attitudes from parents despite their schooling. It's unfortunate you have only encountered stereotypes "
Exactly. I'm not a very nice person and I went to state school. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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I was lucky enough to spend the last four years of school at a fee paying independent co-ed school. These were some of the best four years of my life! The opportunities that I had there were amazing. Something that my friends who I was at school with before that never had.
I still have a good group of friends from private school, but there are some that I am not friends with. I put this down to the clash of social class between myself and them. I think that public schools are generally geared up for people who are used to a life of privilege. It took me a long time to adapt to the longer hours and the Saturday morning school.
My children are in state school and sometimes I have a nagging sadness that my kids will almost certainly never have the opportunities that I had.
The facilities and coaching in private school allowed me to play a sport at a very high level as a young man and gave me some incredibly good values to take into the future.
The school my children are at is an excellent school but cannot offer the things that a public school can. If We win the lottery on Saturday, the first thing we would do is enrol our kids into a private school. Not because of the potential for higher earnings but for the experience and opportunities they receive whilst they are children. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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My youngest goes to a private school ( his much older brothers didn't) he is a very happy creative confidant child who also speaks really nicely.
The school is fantastic regarding supporting the kids and parents and always there to help.
No stress if you have to take them out of school, yet the grades are wonderful so I can't complain. |
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"My youngest goes to a private school ( his much older brothers didn't) he is a very happy creative confidant child who also speaks really nicely.
The school is fantastic regarding supporting the kids and parents and always there to help.
No stress if you have to take them out of school, yet the grades are wonderful so I can't complain. "
You can't ask for anything more |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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At the rate the NHS are helping us, schools won't exist by the time any kid of ours will be of age. There'll be space age knowledge implants just stuck to the noggin at birth.  |
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"At the rate the NHS are helping us, schools won't exist by the time any kid of ours will be of age. There'll be space age knowledge implants just stuck to the noggin at birth. "
I sincerely hope not lol |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"Home schooling would be my choice
Oh my daughter has asked to do that, no way, I just couldn't. I know ppl who do I take my hat off to them "
Mine did too but I think that's because she follows a family who do this on YouTube
I'd be concerned that interaction with others would be compromised. School is a great place for learning life skills as well as an education.
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"At the rate the NHS are helping us, schools won't exist by the time any kid of ours will be of age. There'll be space age knowledge implants just stuck to the noggin at birth.
I sincerely hope not lol"
So do we, but after 5 years n counting...... |
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"Home schooling would be my choice
Oh my daughter has asked to do that, no way, I just couldn't. I know ppl who do I take my hat off to them
Mine did too but I think that's because she follows a family who do this on YouTube
I'd be concerned that interaction with others would be compromised. School is a great place for learning life skills as well as an education.
"
Yep mine watches a family too which doesn't help. Interaction is a worry for sure |
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If 7% of kids go to private school then ~1% attend both systems, which is why most of the comments here are based on stereotypes that don't hold up well.
The real measure of a school is not the GCSE pass rate because that can easily be fudged by selection. The sensible performance measure is a to understand what results would reasonably be expected given the demographics and compared to the actual results. In other words, you compare the results of two questions "what should this child achieve at an average school?" And "what did the child achieve?".
If you used this measure then the state - private gap would get even wider; including grammar schools which primarily achieve results by keeping kids out, not what they do with the ones that get in.
Too many state schools focus their resources on trying to get border line students from an E or D to a C or B grade. Thus they fail to push B students into A students and frankly write off kids in the bottoms sets. Private schools couldn't get away with doing this. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"Home schooling would be my choice "
Yes, I've seen figures that say children do far better being home schooled, and not just in exams but going on to further or tertiary education. And just because a child is home schooled doesn't mean they have to be locked away in a basement with no opportunity for playing with other kids and having activities outside their education.
It seems to me that formal education is just a device introduced in the industrial revolution to get people used to a factory work environment. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"another one of those subjects where people base their viewpoint on preconceptions and misconceptions rather than facts unfortunately  "
Who was that aimed at? |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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both mine passed for grammar - have got great degree results and following their dreams - they worked hard and deserve what they got now - but you cant make a kid do what it is unable to no matter what school they go to |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"Home schooling would be my choice
Yes, I've seen figures that say children do far better being home schooled, and not just in exams but going on to further or tertiary education. And just because a child is home schooled doesn't mean they have to be locked away in a basement with no opportunity for playing with other kids and having activities outside their education.
It seems to me that formal education is just a device introduced in the industrial revolution to get people used to a factory work environment. "
I suspect I'd have done terribly if my mother homeschooled me. She's not the sharpest crayon in the box, can't do maths at all (seriously - can't even tell you how much 10% of 100 is), and thought I was silly going to university as a mature student, suggesting instead that I just settle down and get a job as a receptionist or something - like her. |
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By *dinMan
over a year ago
Birmingham |
"another one of those subjects where people base their viewpoint on preconceptions and misconceptions rather than facts unfortunately
Who was that aimed at? "
it is a general observation from having read the various posts above |
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Being as I have no children nor am I ever likely have them, (I spent 10 years in private/boarding school) I would say that it wholly depends on the individual pupil.
Their circumstances, i.e. willingness to learn, and the size of the class they are supposed to actually learn stuff and be actually interested in, as well as the teacher's ability to actually teach would come into the equation as well I suppose.
I was lucky I suppose, I really enjoyed my time at school, I know some kids don't. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"another one of those subjects where people base their viewpoint on preconceptions and misconceptions rather than facts unfortunately
Who was that aimed at?
it is a general observation from having read the various posts above"
So you think none of what's been said is accurate? Maybe goes to prove every child is individual, and what will suit one, won't suit another |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"Home schooling would be my choice
Yes, I've seen figures that say children do far better being home schooled, and not just in exams but going on to further or tertiary education. And just because a child is home schooled doesn't mean they have to be locked away in a basement with no opportunity for playing with other kids and having activities outside their education.
It seems to me that formal education is just a device introduced in the industrial revolution to get people used to a factory work environment.
I suspect I'd have done terribly if my mother homeschooled me. She's not the sharpest crayon in the box, can't do maths at all (seriously - can't even tell you how much 10% of 100 is), and thought I was silly going to university as a mature student, suggesting instead that I just settle down and get a job as a receptionist or something - like her."
Ya, good point |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"another one of those subjects where people base their viewpoint on preconceptions and misconceptions rather than facts unfortunately "
Yet you haven't given a view either way?
Many will judge their opinions on their own experiences to date. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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Absolutely. I can only go off my own experience in a state secondary school then in a grammar school for A levels.
Most people in my 6th form found the traditional way of teaching far too rigid. It was like being at Hogwarts but without the fun element so I'd have to choose state school for my children.
I do however go off results and ofstead scores so have found the best possible school I can for them.
Its worked out well so far. One through uni and into work and one about to go to a prestigious uni this year.
You can only do your best and go with what you think will benefit them the most
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"another one of those subjects where people base their viewpoint on preconceptions and misconceptions rather than facts unfortunately
Who was that aimed at?
it is a general observation from having read the various posts above
So you think none of what's been said is accurate? Maybe goes to prove every child is individual, and what will suit one, won't suit another "
The relative success of the asian education system over european would contradict that belief. |
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"another one of those subjects where people base their viewpoint on preconceptions and misconceptions rather than facts unfortunately
Yet you haven't given a view either way?
Many will judge their opinions on their own experiences to date. "
But what percentage of people have experience of both state and private systems? |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"another one of those subjects where people base their viewpoint on preconceptions and misconceptions rather than facts unfortunately
Who was that aimed at?
it is a general observation from having read the various posts above
So you think none of what's been said is accurate? Maybe goes to prove every child is individual, and what will suit one, won't suit another
The relative success of the asian education system over european would contradict that belief. "
It's not my belief, only a thought.
But besides, don't you think that could have a lot to do with the culture around education, discipline, respect, rather than the system itself? |
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"another one of those subjects where people base their viewpoint on preconceptions and misconceptions rather than facts unfortunately
Who was that aimed at?
it is a general observation from having read the various posts above
So you think none of what's been said is accurate? Maybe goes to prove every child is individual, and what will suit one, won't suit another
The relative success of the asian education system over european would contradict that belief.
It's not my belief, only a thought.
But besides, don't you think that could have a lot to do with the culture around education, discipline, respect, rather than the system itself? "
There was a documentary the BBC ran in Bohunt School where they split year 9 into two parts and were tested on 3 subjects. One continued with the british system and the other bought in the chinese style. They then tested them at the end, guess which one won? |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"another one of those subjects where people base their viewpoint on preconceptions and misconceptions rather than facts unfortunately
Who was that aimed at?
it is a general observation from having read the various posts above
So you think none of what's been said is accurate? Maybe goes to prove every child is individual, and what will suit one, won't suit another
The relative success of the asian education system over european would contradict that belief.
It's not my belief, only a thought.
But besides, don't you think that could have a lot to do with the culture around education, discipline, respect, rather than the system itself?
There was a documentary the BBC ran in Bohunt School where they split year 9 into two parts and were tested on 3 subjects. One continued with the british system and the other bought in the chinese style. They then tested them at the end, guess which one won? "
That's interesting. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"another one of those subjects where people base their viewpoint on preconceptions and misconceptions rather than facts unfortunately
Who was that aimed at?
it is a general observation from having read the various posts above
So you think none of what's been said is accurate? Maybe goes to prove every child is individual, and what will suit one, won't suit another
The relative success of the asian education system over european would contradict that belief. "
What are the fundamental differences between the two? |
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If I had had the money I'd have sent my children to private school. As it is all three went to a state school and came out with a PhD, Masters and Bachelors between them.
Only difference would be their degrees would be from Oxford or Cambridge and not South Bank and Greenwich.
They are on jobs they love and living the lives they want.
|
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"If I had had the money I'd have sent my children to private school. As it is all three went to a state school and came out with a PhD, Masters and Bachelors between them.
Only difference would be their degrees would be from Oxford or Cambridge and not South Bank and Greenwich.
They are on jobs they love and living the lives they want.
"
That's fantastic to hear. It's what education should lead to, something you enjoy |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"Home schooling would be my choice
Yes, I've seen figures that say children do far better being home schooled, and not just in exams but going on to further or tertiary education. And just because a child is home schooled doesn't mean they have to be locked away in a basement with no opportunity for playing with other kids and having activities outside their education.
It seems to me that formal education is just a device introduced in the industrial revolution to get people used to a factory work environment. "
No one said they would be locked in a basement without outside interaction but it could be limiting depending on the surrounding community.
Being part of a school team whether it's choir, debating, sports etc can play a big part in a child's socialising & development. Not to mention the basics of just playing & hanging out at recess with their peers.
There are pros & cons, certainly wouldn't suit everyone.
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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The Education system needs fundamental transformation to create appropriate learning processes for tomorrow's adults. The state system, in my view, would be the vehicle for that. However I am yet to see Politicians with the vision, wherewithal and courage to attempt such a transformation. I won't be holding my breath. |
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Private for us. Growing up as an ethnic minority got me singled out at school, I was bullied harassed and threatened, even by those of my own ethnicity for being "too clever".
I find public (private) schools to be more inclusive of ethnic minorities and more open to cultural differences. |
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"another one of those subjects where people base their viewpoint on preconceptions and misconceptions rather than facts unfortunately
Who was that aimed at?
it is a general observation from having read the various posts above
So you think none of what's been said is accurate? Maybe goes to prove every child is individual, and what will suit one, won't suit another
The relative success of the asian education system over european would contradict that belief.
What are the fundamental differences between the two?"
In asia they believe that until you have foundation knowledge (e.g. basic maths, logic, scientific concepts) then theres really no point trying to have personalised learning since these are best taught in a standard way. They outperform europe with ease and have larger class sizes. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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Currently our choice is limited as we often move every three years or so....but its where I feel our child is happiest, this isnt nessiceraly the top school or the one with best ofsted report... this being said we've live abroad and had excellent schooling whilst being out there. I would only consider Private schooling if they were struggling with moving schools or when it comes time for GCSE's if they wanted to, other than that we've been very lucky so far.
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"Private for us. Growing up as an ethnic minority got me singled out at school, I was bullied harassed and threatened, even by those of my own ethnicity for being "too clever".
I find public (private) schools to be more inclusive of ethnic minorities and more open to cultural differences. "
There are 120,000 families in the governments "troubled families" programme. If we assume each family has an average of 4 children, probably on the low side, then thats 19 troubled children for every state school. For anyone who doesn't give a shit about political correctness then that's all the information you need to know why bullying and violence will always be more rife in the state sector. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"another one of those subjects where people base their viewpoint on preconceptions and misconceptions rather than facts unfortunately
Yet you haven't given a view either way?
Many will judge their opinions on their own experiences to date.
But what percentage of people have experience of both state and private systems? "
I do. |
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"another one of those subjects where people base their viewpoint on preconceptions and misconceptions rather than facts unfortunately
Yet you haven't given a view either way?
Many will judge their opinions on their own experiences to date.
But what percentage of people have experience of both state and private systems?
I do. "
How many years were you a pupil in the state system and how many years were you a pupil in the private system? Which system did you sit exams in? |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"If 7% of kids go to private school then ~1% attend both systems, which is why most of the comments here are based on stereotypes that don't hold up well.
The real measure of a school is not the GCSE pass rate because that can easily be fudged by selection. The sensible performance measure is a to understand what results would reasonably be expected given the demographics and compared to the actual results. In other words, you compare the results of two questions "what should this child achieve at an average school?" And "what did the child achieve?".
If you used this measure then the state - private gap would get even wider; including grammar schools which primarily achieve results by keeping kids out, not what they do with the ones that get in.
Too many state schools focus their resources on trying to get border line students from an E or D to a C or B grade. Thus they fail to push B students into A students and frankly write off kids in the bottoms sets. Private schools couldn't get away with doing this. "
Disagree, I went to a private school from age 9 to 16. I saw that sort of thing all the time. Then again, it was what some people considered a '3rd rate outfit'
Oh, for information, international school based on the American system until age 9. State sixth form college from 16 to 18.
-Mr |
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"If 7% of kids go to private school then ~1% attend both systems, which is why most of the comments here are based on stereotypes that don't hold up well.
The real measure of a school is not the GCSE pass rate because that can easily be fudged by selection. The sensible performance measure is a to understand what results would reasonably be expected given the demographics and compared to the actual results. In other words, you compare the results of two questions "what should this child achieve at an average school?" And "what did the child achieve?".
If you used this measure then the state - private gap would get even wider; including grammar schools which primarily achieve results by keeping kids out, not what they do with the ones that get in.
Too many state schools focus their resources on trying to get border line students from an E or D to a C or B grade. Thus they fail to push B students into A students and frankly write off kids in the bottoms sets. Private schools couldn't get away with doing this.
Disagree, I went to a private school from age 9 to 16. I saw that sort of thing all the time. Then again, it was what some people considered a '3rd rate outfit'
Oh, for information, international school based on the American system until age 9. State sixth form college from 16 to 18.
-Mr "
Hmmm ok, thats interesting. Most the private schools i know in the south west have a 99%+ A-C pass rate so there's no real question of whethet you will pass or not. Then they have another % for the rate of A and A* %'s. However as i said above, i think pass rates are a crap metric and i was very proud to go to a private school that was both non-selective and gladly accepted some kids who had learning difficulties and hence never really had any prospect of getting C or higher. It bought our A-C rate down to about 93% but nobody really gave a crap because nobody measured our worth that way anyhow. Common sense would tell you that if your child was capable of passing then the school would take care of it so nobody worried. Thats just my personal experience for what its worth. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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Over here in belfast Irish language schools are really popular at the minute wernt when i was a kid.
100s if not 1000s of primary school kids are fluent in 2 languages i think its really awesome tbh and they do say learning another language when your young helps your brain develope.
Think its popular in wales to and scotland bloody right to |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"Over here in belfast Irish language schools are really popular at the minute wernt when i was a kid.
100s if not 1000s of primary school kids are fluent in 2 languages i think its really awesome tbh and they do say learning another language when your young helps your brain develope.
Think its popular in wales to and scotland bloody right to "
I work in Early Years Education and in my work place many of the children are fluent in 2 or even 3 languages. English is not their first language. It's amazing how easily and quickly young children learn another language.
We, the staff, all learn some words of the different languages in order to communicate verbally with the children, however we all find it much harder than the children did lol.
We also have some staff who don't have english as a first language but are very fluent in it.
It makes work life very interesting |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"Over here in belfast Irish language schools are really popular at the minute wernt when i was a kid.
100s if not 1000s of primary school kids are fluent in 2 languages i think its really awesome tbh and they do say learning another language when your young helps your brain develope.
Think its popular in wales to and scotland bloody right to
I work in Early Years Education and in my work place many of the children are fluent in 2 or even 3 languages. English is not their first language. It's amazing how easily and quickly young children learn another language.
We, the staff, all learn some words of the different languages in order to communicate verbally with the children, however we all find it much harder than the children did lol.
We also have some staff who don't have english as a first language but are very fluent in it.
It makes work life very interesting "
I only know a couple of words agus is and kaher is 4 i nam in a nocker is in the name of the father i didnt pronounce it right my niece taught me how to say it right 5 years of age teaching me f in cool asf.
If i have kids im sending them they have been speaking that language on this island 100s of years a slap in the face to them by a couple of generations who couldnt be arsed me included |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"Even if i could have afforded it i wouldn't have sent my children to a private school. I have had and still do have lots of contact with children who are at a private school plus adults who used to go to a private school and i didn't want my children to end up like those children and adults.
My children are lovely balanced people and have great jobs, earn well and, most important, they are happy
Either education can result in adults/children you wouldn't want to associate with
I'm sure that's true however every working day i have contact with adults who went to private schools and children who are there now and i didn't want my children to be like them. They might have great results in their education but not one of them is a nice person."
Really not a single one of them??? |
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"Even if i could have afforded it i wouldn't have sent my children to a private school. I have had and still do have lots of contact with children who are at a private school plus adults who used to go to a private school and i didn't want my children to end up like those children and adults.
My children are lovely balanced people and have great jobs, earn well and, most important, they are happy
Either education can result in adults/children you wouldn't want to associate with
I'm sure that's true however every working day i have contact with adults who went to private schools and children who are there now and i didn't want my children to be like them. They might have great results in their education but not one of them is a nice person.
Really not a single one of them???"
Apparently |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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Private, without question. However they vary greatly, so need as much consideration as state schools. I'd also look at my child's potential ability.
"Middle of the road" children get lost in mainstream state school. Focus tends to be on AD and the high flyers.
Private have smaller class sizes and focus on each individual child to succeed, rather than overall percentage.
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"Even if i could have afforded it i wouldn't have sent my children to a private school. I have had and still do have lots of contact with children who are at a private school plus adults who used to go to a private school and i didn't want my children to end up like those children and adults.
My children are lovely balanced people and have great jobs, earn well and, most important, they are happy
Either education can result in adults/children you wouldn't want to associate with
I'm sure that's true however every working day i have contact with adults who went to private schools and children who are there now and i didn't want my children to be like them. They might have great results in their education but not one of them is a nice person.
Really not a single one of them???
Apparently "
Personally I avoid such language since it is self-defining. In my experience 'nice person' is usually synonymous with what i would call a 'loser' or 'doormat'. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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I was told once, and I don't see any reason to disbelieve it, that private education is only really beneficial if it's the most exclusive schools.
Other wise you might as well go state and use all the cash you save on extra cerricular activities.
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"Private, without question. However they vary greatly, so need as much consideration as state schools. I'd also look at my child's potential ability.
"Middle of the road" children get lost in mainstream state school. Focus tends to be on AD and the high flyers.
"
Really? My state school was the opposite, state schools don't have much incentive to push high flyers since they are generally measured on pass rate. Their incentives are to manage the dregs because they get paid more to take them and get the middle of the road kids over the pass mark. Maybe individual teachers pushed high flying pupils because they personally liked them but there was no real incentive to sustain that.
"
Private have smaller class sizes and focus on each individual child to succeed, rather than overall percentage.
"
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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Both my children went to private school from 3 to 11. Then to our local grammar school. Now aged 27 and 30, they would say that their choice would have been the local state school. |
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"I was told once, and I don't see any reason to disbelieve it, that private education is only really beneficial if it's the most exclusive schools.
Other wise you might as well go state and use all the cash you save on extra cerricular activities.
"
Are meaning that the education is no better than a state school?
|
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"I was told once, and I don't see any reason to disbelieve it, that private education is only really beneficial if it's the most exclusive schools.
Other wise you might as well go state and use all the cash you save on extra cerricular activities.
"
Well that entirely depends on your goals.
Contrary to popular belief, the average private school is just stacked with middle class kids whose parents make huge sacrifices to pay the fees. So if your goal is for your kid to grow up to be an investment banker or conservative MP then they probably won't make the connections you are dreaming of at the average private school.
However even an average private school has facilities a state school could only dream of. So some of my happiest childhood memories were a result of opportunities enabled by the facilities at the private school i went to. |
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"I was told once, and I don't see any reason to disbelieve it, that private education is only really beneficial if it's the most exclusive schools.
Other wise you might as well go state and use all the cash you save on extra cerricular activities.
Well that entirely depends on your goals.
Contrary to popular belief, the average private school is just stacked with middle class kids whose parents make huge sacrifices to pay the fees. So if your goal is for your kid to grow up to be an investment banker or conservative MP then they probably won't make the connections you are dreaming of at the average private school.
However even an average private school has facilities a state school could only dream of. So some of my happiest childhood memories were a result of opportunities enabled by the facilities at the private school i went to. "
You've hit the nail on the head |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"I was told once, and I don't see any reason to disbelieve it, that private education is only really beneficial if it's the most exclusive schools.
Other wise you might as well go state and use all the cash you save on extra cerricular activities.
Are meaning that the education is no better than a state school?
"
It's not just the education or the qualifications. It's the charecter building.
It's all the other stuff, sports, music, horse riding, extra experiences. The wider range of experiences. That's what makes someone rounded.
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"I was told once, and I don't see any reason to disbelieve it, that private education is only really beneficial if it's the most exclusive schools.
Other wise you might as well go state and use all the cash you save on extra cerricular activities.
Well that entirely depends on your goals.
Contrary to popular belief, the average private school is just stacked with middle class kids whose parents make huge sacrifices to pay the fees. So if your goal is for your kid to grow up to be an investment banker or conservative MP then they probably won't make the connections you are dreaming of at the average private school.
However even an average private school has facilities a state school could only dream of. So some of my happiest childhood memories were a result of opportunities enabled by the facilities at the private school i went to.
You've hit the nail on the head "
You wouldn't be relying on the schools facilities, you could spend on a top kickboxing club, a cricket club, fencing, boxing (the good ones are cheap anyway) private music or street dance |
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"I was told once, and I don't see any reason to disbelieve it, that private education is only really beneficial if it's the most exclusive schools.
Other wise you might as well go state and use all the cash you save on extra cerricular activities.
Well that entirely depends on your goals.
Contrary to popular belief, the average private school is just stacked with middle class kids whose parents make huge sacrifices to pay the fees. So if your goal is for your kid to grow up to be an investment banker or conservative MP then they probably won't make the connections you are dreaming of at the average private school.
However even an average private school has facilities a state school could only dream of. So some of my happiest childhood memories were a result of opportunities enabled by the facilities at the private school i went to.
You've hit the nail on the head
You wouldn't be relying on the schools facilities, you could spend on a top kickboxing club, a cricket club, fencing, boxing (the good ones are cheap anyway) private music or street dance "
There's a critical difference though. Private schools have the benefit of a captive audience whereas out of schools clubs don't. The critical mass of kids provides opportunities for very different experiences. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"Private, without question. However they vary greatly, so need as much consideration as state schools. I'd also look at my child's potential ability.
"Middle of the road" children get lost in mainstream state school. Focus tends to be on AD and the high flyers.
Really? My state school was the opposite, state schools don't have much incentive to push high flyers since they are generally measured on pass rate. Their incentives are to manage the dregs because they get paid more to take them and get the middle of the road kids over the pass mark. Maybe individual teachers pushed high flying pupils because they personally liked them but there was no real incentive to sustain that.
Private have smaller class sizes and focus on each individual child to succeed, rather than overall percentage.
"
I disagree. Every class lesson is based around the basic topic with a accelerator level included. Which is purely aimed to target those students who are more capable. You may not know that that process exists, but it does.
Children are split into "sets" depending on ability in secondary state schools. Children tend to even out and stay within their sets throughout school. Therefore those who are put into a certain set, i.e. 3, will be highly unlikely to ever reach set 1, and vice versa.
In Private school, that set process does not exist. You are educated alongside the most intelligent, and therefore have a higher level of education than you would in a state school.
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There are a number of activities at my children's school that incur additional costs. They don't have specialist staff for every activity, therefore those who make sacrifices aren't paying for activities they don't need to. The are an abundance of specialist staff who facilitate clubs that are non chargeable, Spanish, chess, hockey, cricket, design, history, netball, cookery, choir, rugby and the list goes on. In addition there are activities where specialists come into school offering the expertise that you're describing. The school works hard to keep close links with the community and therefore is regularly approached with exciting activities and events for the children. The school is forward thinking and inclusive, should a parent feel something could be added to the already vast choice of activities it will always be given consideration.
However they attend a prep school and not every activity is available, therefore my children are and have accessed many additional clubs outside of school which is also important. I want my children to see life as it is not from the cocoon of a private education. They have a wide circle of friends from all backgrounds because of this. My children are empathetic and caring, not the monsters that have been described further up the thread. They are far from perfect and are put firmly back into line when they cross it. I'm incredibly proud of my children but particularly when they perform acts of kindness without prompting from others. My daughter attended a nursing home with school to sing to the residents at Christmas. I now have to take her regularly to visit one of the residents just because she wants to. Yesterday she was shopping with myself and her friend, she stopped took out her purse and gave money to a homeless man. When we went past him again she stopped to see how he was.
The school is not the most expensive as we are in the north, however it is currently outperforming (I don't just mean academically) some of the schools you are describing. It's about the right school for your children not the cost or which will look better on their CV. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"State education every time.
Education is more than getting exam results to my mind.
Being able to communicate with a wide range of people from different backgrounds is important.
Plus most private schools are single sex which I disagree with too."
Interesting opinions. My kids went to state schools but I wish I had had the finances to privately educate. My ex and I paid for additional tuition that really helped.
Single.sex schools have shown that both sexes do better in a same sex environment certainly by the time that they are teens |
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"State education every time.
Education is more than getting exam results to my mind.
Being able to communicate with a wide range of people from different backgrounds is important.
Plus most private schools are single sex which I disagree with too.
Interesting opinions. My kids went to state schools but I wish I had had the finances to privately educate. My ex and I paid for additional tuition that really helped.
Single.sex schools have shown that both sexes do better in a same sex environment certainly by the time that they are teens"
My understanding is that girls do better in single sex schools but boys do not. |
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I went to both as a child , and the private gave me a great start . By 13 I was moved to state education , and left school at 16 to go into full time employment . The last 3 years were a complete waste of time as the state education was way below what I was used to , so I didn't bother going to school very often . I guess I rebelled , and the bullying didn't help .
So with my kids it was a simple decision . State education so that they fitted in , and by the time they left school I had a bloody good successful business for them to join .
So now I have all my kids working in the family business , all have a well rounded education behind them and all have a bright future .
I would never opt for private as it makes you feel better than those who have a state education . This inevitably makes it difficult to integrate with the normal kids , and the bullying can be horrible .
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"There are a number of activities at my children's school that incur additional costs. They don't have specialist staff for every activity, therefore those who make sacrifices aren't paying for activities they don't need to. The are an abundance of specialist staff who facilitate clubs that are non chargeable, Spanish, chess, hockey, cricket, design, history, netball, cookery, choir, rugby and the list goes on. In addition there are activities where specialists come into school offering the expertise that you're describing. The school works hard to keep close links with the community and therefore is regularly approached with exciting activities and events for the children. The school is forward thinking and inclusive, should a parent feel something could be added to the already vast choice of activities it will always be given consideration.
However they attend a prep school and not every activity is available, therefore my children are and have accessed many additional clubs outside of school which is also important. I want my children to see life as it is not from the cocoon of a private education. They have a wide circle of friends from all backgrounds because of this. My children are empathetic and caring, not the monsters that have been described further up the thread. They are far from perfect and are put firmly back into line when they cross it. I'm incredibly proud of my children but particularly when they perform acts of kindness without prompting from others. My daughter attended a nursing home with school to sing to the residents at Christmas. I now have to take her regularly to visit one of the residents just because she wants to. Yesterday she was shopping with myself and her friend, she stopped took out her purse and gave money to a homeless man. When we went past him again she stopped to see how he was.
The school is not the most expensive as we are in the north, however it is currently outperforming (I don't just mean academically) some of the schools you are describing. It's about the right school for your children not the cost or which will look better on their CV."
Humans are a tribal species, most people like in some kind of social cacoon. Anyone who thinks they are truly citizens of the earth is dilusional. There are over 7 billion people in the world and to think you can properly relate to even a quarter of them is intellectual masturbation. Private school kids are no less able to interact with 'ordinary working people' than state school kids are unable to rub shoulders with the 'elites' of this country. |
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"
I would never opt for private as it makes you feel better than those who have a state education . This inevitably makes it difficult to integrate with the normal kids , and the bullying can be horrible.
"
I never saw any evidence of this |
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"
I would never opt for private as it makes you feel better than those who have a state education . This inevitably makes it difficult to integrate with the normal kids , and the bullying can be horrible.
I never saw any evidence of this"
Lucky you .
Did you move from private to state at 13 ? |
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"
I would never opt for private as it makes you feel better than those who have a state education . This inevitably makes it difficult to integrate with the normal kids , and the bullying can be horrible.
I never saw any evidence of this
Lucky you .
Did you move from private to state at 13 ? "
No i moved from state to private at 13 |
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"There are a number of activities at my children's school that incur additional costs. They don't have specialist staff for every activity, therefore those who make sacrifices aren't paying for activities they don't need to. The are an abundance of specialist staff who facilitate clubs that are non chargeable, Spanish, chess, hockey, cricket, design, history, netball, cookery, choir, rugby and the list goes on. In addition there are activities where specialists come into school offering the expertise that you're describing. The school works hard to keep close links with the community and therefore is regularly approached with exciting activities and events for the children. The school is forward thinking and inclusive, should a parent feel something could be added to the already vast choice of activities it will always be given consideration.
However they attend a prep school and not every activity is available, therefore my children are and have accessed many additional clubs outside of school which is also important. I want my children to see life as it is not from the cocoon of a private education. They have a wide circle of friends from all backgrounds because of this. My children are empathetic and caring, not the monsters that have been described further up the thread. They are far from perfect and are put firmly back into line when they cross it. I'm incredibly proud of my children but particularly when they perform acts of kindness without prompting from others. My daughter attended a nursing home with school to sing to the residents at Christmas. I now have to take her regularly to visit one of the residents just because she wants to. Yesterday she was shopping with myself and her friend, she stopped took out her purse and gave money to a homeless man. When we went past him again she stopped to see how he was.
The school is not the most expensive as we are in the north, however it is currently outperforming (I don't just mean academically) some of the schools you are describing. It's about the right school for your children not the cost or which will look better on their CV.
Humans are a tribal species, most people like in some kind of social cacoon. Anyone who thinks they are truly citizens of the earth is dilusional. There are over 7 billion people in the world and to think you can properly relate to even a quarter of them is intellectual masturbation. Private school kids are no less able to interact with 'ordinary working people' than state school kids are unable to rub shoulders with the 'elites' of this country. "
I think understanding the community in which they live and an awareness that there is a world beyond that for them discover and explore, while being as non judgmental as possible is more realistic. |
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"
I would never opt for private as it makes you feel better than those who have a state education . This inevitably makes it difficult to integrate with the normal kids , and the bullying can be horrible.
I never saw any evidence of this
Lucky you .
Did you move from private to state at 13 ?
No i moved from state to private at 13"
Ah , the other way round .
Perhaps the kids in private education weren't so down on the state educated kids as the state educated were on the private ?
I don't know , but when the kids at my secondary school found out I came from a private school I was immediately set upon . They saw me as the kid who thinks he's better than us etc...... |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"
I would never opt for private as it makes you feel better than those who have a state education . This inevitably makes it difficult to integrate with the normal kids , and the bullying can be horrible.
I never saw any evidence of this
Lucky you .
Did you move from private to state at 13 ?
No i moved from state to private at 13
Ah , the other way round .
Perhaps the kids in private education weren't so down on the state educated kids as the state educated were on the private ?
I don't know , but when the kids at my secondary school found out I came from a private school I was immediately set upon . They saw me as the kid who thinks he's better than us etc...... "
Inverse snobbery can be a real bitch. |
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"
I would never opt for private as it makes you feel better than those who have a state education . This inevitably makes it difficult to integrate with the normal kids , and the bullying can be horrible.
I never saw any evidence of this
Lucky you .
Did you move from private to state at 13 ?
No i moved from state to private at 13
Ah , the other way round .
Perhaps the kids in private education weren't so down on the state educated kids as the state educated were on the private ?
I don't know , but when the kids at my secondary school found out I came from a private school I was immediately set upon . They saw me as the kid who thinks he's better than us etc...... "
Yes i can certainly imagine that happening. The kids at my private school had more important things to concern themselves with. The kids at the state school were largely bored out of their minds so would start conflict over the most trivial things to entertain themselves. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"
I would never opt for private as it makes you feel better than those who have a state education . This inevitably makes it difficult to integrate with the normal kids , and the bullying can be horrible.
I never saw any evidence of this
Lucky you .
Did you move from private to state at 13 ?
No i moved from state to private at 13
Ah , the other way round .
Perhaps the kids in private education weren't so down on the state educated kids as the state educated were on the private ?
I don't know , but when the kids at my secondary school found out I came from a private school I was immediately set upon . They saw me as the kid who thinks he's better than us etc......
Yes i can certainly imagine that happening. The kids at my private school had more important things to concern themselves with. The kids at the state school were largely bored out of their minds so would start conflict over the most trivial things to entertain themselves. "
Yes the kids at private schools just cause conflict over more important matters |
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"
I would never opt for private as it makes you feel better than those who have a state education . This inevitably makes it difficult to integrate with the normal kids , and the bullying can be horrible.
I never saw any evidence of this
Lucky you .
Did you move from private to state at 13 ?
No i moved from state to private at 13
Ah , the other way round .
Perhaps the kids in private education weren't so down on the state educated kids as the state educated were on the private ?
I don't know , but when the kids at my secondary school found out I came from a private school I was immediately set upon . They saw me as the kid who thinks he's better than us etc......
Yes i can certainly imagine that happening. The kids at my private school had more important things to concern themselves with. The kids at the state school were largely bored out of their minds so would start conflict over the most trivial things to entertain themselves.
Yes the kids at private schools just cause conflict over more important matters "
Honestly, the school keeps you busier so there isn't time for as much conflict. 2 hours homework every night, school on saturdays etc |
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"After working in a private school for a few months, I would say state schools everyday. The kids seemed to act like they were above everyone, just because mummy and daddy had momey."
That's the parenting not the education |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"After working in a private school for a few months, I would say state schools everyday. The kids seemed to act like they were above everyone, just because mummy and daddy had momey."
as opposed to what?
I'm surprised at that comment, coming from someone who has worked within a private school.
I find the intelligence and general capability of most children within a private school setting to be very balanced. They tend to go without, due to "mummy and daddy having money". And by "without", I mean direct parental care, family events, (even money) etc. Those children, in my experience (from being one and teaching at both), tend to form tighter friendship bonds and closer bonds with their house masters/mistresses, who become their family. They tend to be better team players and actually feel less entitled. They tend to take more responsibility for their actions and have greater acceptance of their faults.
State school children tend to have more of a blame culture, a greater amount of bullying, point scoring and issues regarding wealth (or lack of).
Even to this day, as an adult, I still get critiqued for use of wording which eludes to wealth/class/background. For some reason it's more acceptable to be from another socio economic background, than it is to be privileged.
I am speaking broadly here. But these are the observations I have found and have learnt about. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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When I think of my own daughter, I wouldn't question sending her from a state school to a private school.
However, if I were to move her from Private to State, I know for a fact that she will encounter problems with acceptance and bullying for being a "rich kid", or having "mummy and daddy's money" blah blah. |
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"After working in a private school for a few months, I would say state schools everyday. The kids seemed to act like they were above everyone, just because mummy and daddy had momey. as opposed to what?
I'm surprised at that comment, coming from someone who has worked within a private school.
I find the intelligence and general capability of most children within a private school setting to be very balanced. They tend to go without, due to "mummy and daddy having money". And by "without", I mean direct parental care, family events, (even money) etc. Those children, in my experience (from being one and teaching at both), tend to form tighter friendship bonds and closer bonds with their house masters/mistresses, who become their family. They tend to be better team players and actually feel less entitled. They tend to take more responsibility for their actions and have greater acceptance of their faults.
State school children tend to have more of a blame culture, a greater amount of bullying, point scoring and issues regarding wealth (or lack of).
Even to this day, as an adult, I still get critiqued for use of wording which eludes to wealth/class/background. For some reason it's more acceptable to be from another socio economic background, than it is to be privileged.
I am speaking broadly here. But these are the observations I have found and have learnt about. "
As i say above, actually very few private schools have a "mummy and daddy" culture because most are full of middle class kids that aren't from rich families. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"
I would never opt for private as it makes you feel better than those who have a state education . This inevitably makes it difficult to integrate with the normal kids , and the bullying can be horrible.
I never saw any evidence of this
Lucky you .
Did you move from private to state at 13 ?
No i moved from state to private at 13
Ah , the other way round .
Perhaps the kids in private education weren't so down on the state educated kids as the state educated were on the private ?
I don't know , but when the kids at my secondary school found out I came from a private school I was immediately set upon . They saw me as the kid who thinks he's better than us etc......
Yes i can certainly imagine that happening. The kids at my private school had more important things to concern themselves with. The kids at the state school were largely bored out of their minds so would start conflict over the most trivial things to entertain themselves.
Yes the kids at private schools just cause conflict over more important matters
Honestly, the school keeps you busier so there isn't time for as much conflict. 2 hours homework every night, school on saturdays etc "
So possibly making a more pressured environment, and making the children better at hiding their bad behaviour. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"Home schooling would be my choice
Yes, I've seen figures that say children do far better being home schooled, and not just in exams but going on to further or tertiary education. And just because a child is home schooled doesn't mean they have to be locked away in a basement with no opportunity for playing with other kids and having activities outside their education.
It seems to me that formal education is just a device introduced in the industrial revolution to get people used to a factory work environment. "
You should do a Google search for the prussian education system and the trivium.
John Taylor Gatto won teacher of the year awards twice in the 90's in New York. He has done research on the history of the education system.
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"
I would never opt for private as it makes you feel better than those who have a state education . This inevitably makes it difficult to integrate with the normal kids , and the bullying can be horrible.
I never saw any evidence of this
Lucky you .
Did you move from private to state at 13 ?
No i moved from state to private at 13
Ah , the other way round .
Perhaps the kids in private education weren't so down on the state educated kids as the state educated were on the private ?
I don't know , but when the kids at my secondary school found out I came from a private school I was immediately set upon . They saw me as the kid who thinks he's better than us etc......
Yes i can certainly imagine that happening. The kids at my private school had more important things to concern themselves with. The kids at the state school were largely bored out of their minds so would start conflict over the most trivial things to entertain themselves.
Yes the kids at private schools just cause conflict over more important matters
Honestly, the school keeps you busier so there isn't time for as much conflict. 2 hours homework every night, school on saturdays etc
So possibly making a more pressured environment, and making the children better at hiding their bad behaviour. "
You could say that. I would say that being a teenager is inherently boring and bad behaviour is usually linked to boredom. A lot of the activities arent really pressuring either. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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Personally, I would query how much of former private school students success in "top jobs" - whatever they might be - is down to the old boys/girls network. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"Given the choice I think most would opt for the best possible education for their kids. And nowadays that probably means (not exclusively but mostly) a private education.
(Sorry, I cut the other sentences to keep the post shorter)
I would say most would opt for the best possible childhood for their kids.
In my opinion, that is a balance between getting a good education, as well as enjoying childhood time as a family and with friends.
If attending a private school meant working all hours god sent chasing the dollar to send them there, I would say no. If it meant giving up quality family time then I would say no. Same if the hours worked made the parents more stressed and less happy around the children.
I guess the 70% of top jobs may be populated with privately educated kids. But is earning £500k pa the only aspiration for your kids? I want mine to have great, well paid jobs, where they can do what they want and feel fulfilled in whatever they choose to do. But most of all I want them to be happy now and in future."
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"Personally, I would query how much of former private school students success in "top jobs" - whatever they might be - is down to the old boys/girls network."
Some of it is, a lot also has to do with the fact the average private school pupils gets considerably better results which sends them on to better universities and so forth. |
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