Thinking of Changing School

Why change school at 16 ?

There are several reasons why a student might change school for the last two years of their secondary education. Some have been at the same school since they were very young and would like a change. Some move from their state schools at 16 because they have been offered scholarships by independent schools. Others see the benefits of smaller classes, better exam results or facilities as the key reason for moving. Some young people are keen to try a boarding school for their last two years. Others want to study unusual A Level subjects that are not offered in their own schools such as Music Technology, Psychology or Drama or Film Studies. There are those who want to do the International Baccalaureate or the Pre U Diploma. Others want to move on to find a vocational course which suits them better. And some have simply outgrown school and would fare much better in the more adult environment of a tutorial college or further education college.

What to study after GCSEs ?

The choices for post 16 students are immense not just in terms of what subjects to study and whether A Levels, IB, Pre U or vocational courses but also in which educational environment the student would thrive best. Students also need to understand the implications of the choices they make at 16 in relation to possible degree courses and long term career aims. Gabbitas Consultants are able to offer one to one guidance on all these matters to pre-Sixth Form students and their parents.

Boarding at 16 ?

After many years in a day school, two years at a boarding school for the Sixth Form can prove an immensely valuable experience in many ways. Students become independent in a protective environment and this will set them in good stead when they eventually go on to university. They will also get the opportunity to live in a community with many people of their own age which for most is thoroughly enjoyable. Their social skills and self confidence will develop through this. And for those used to city life, the space, beauty and facilities of schools set in rural mansions or small country towns can be an immense privilege. There is no doubt too that boarders appreciate the comforts of home life at a time when their contemporaries can be finding home a frustrating or restrictive place to be. And for those who are sports enthusiasts, actors or musicians, the opportunities offered at boarding schools are immense.

There are several reasons why pupils may not be thriving at school and wish to change for Sixth Form. But before choosing a school it is important to understand the reasons behind a students decision to change school at 16. The following need to be taken into consideration:

- They may be unhappy boarding
- They are being bullied or friendship groups have broken down
- They are not doing well academically and have become de-motivated
- There are undetected specific learning difficulties which are unsupported
- They are studying the wrong subjects and have lost confidence
- There may be health problems
- They feel undermined by the academic success of a sibling
- They have become hooked on computer games and so their normal routine has been broken down
- There are alcohol or drug issues
- They are very bright, get bored easily and then upset teachers
- They have sleep problems
- Their attendance is poor
- There is mismatch between the pupil and the school they attend. Even excellent schools may not be excellent for every student
- Disengagement from education is a good way of communicating to parents that things are not right
- The family may be going through a difficult period.

Gabbitas consultants are able to give advice and support to parents of students who may be underperforming. Consultants will see parents and students separately initially. Once the causes for underperformance or demotivation become clear, we are then able to give advice about how to turn round the situation and where appropraite refer students to other education or health professionals. We are also able to recommend a change of school if advisable, or organise private tuition or support learning. Click here for more information

Exclusion

When pupils are excluded from school, it can be a very damaging experience. Students are often excluded after a series of minor infringements. Warnings have been administered but students have not responded. Schools are left with no alternative. Parents are rarely braced for 'the last straw' event and are often left wondering 'what happens now'?

Gabbitas are able to advise parents during this difficult time. We need to see the student and make an assessment on his or her current academic progress. We are then able to approach prospective schools on parents' behalf. We can arrange tuition for the student during the interim period so that they don't get behind academically. We are able to liase with schools about any syllabus differences that will need to be addressed if the new school has been teaching different topics from those studied at the student's old school.

Gabbitas Consultants are able to offer one to one guidance on choosing the right boarding school for post 16 students.

For further details please telephone Alice Murrie, +44 (0)20 7734 0161 or e mail alice.murrie@gabbitas.co.uk