How can an educational consultant help us with the independent school search process?

For some families, the process of finding an appropriate independent school placement for their child can be daunting. We spend a lot of our time visiting schools, meeting with admissions deans and heads of school, and have a very thorough and current understanding of the programs and opportunities that define each school. By taking the time to understand the needs and goals of our clients, we are able to suggest schools where each student will thrive in their own way. At each stage of the search and application process we are in close contact with our clients, answering questions, assisting with interview preparation, giving suggestions on application completion, and serving as a liaison between the family and the school. Our foremost goal is to make this process as successful and rewarding as it can be.

When should we start this process?

While there is no specific time to start the school search and application process, beginning in the spring or early fall of the year before your child plans to enroll at a new school is advisable. To be done well, this process takes time, thought, and energy. Allowing enough time relieves some of the pressure that families might feel and allows the space for good decisions to be made.

What if my child is reluctant to go to an independent school?

It is not uncommon for children to have concerns about changing schools. It often means leaving friends, teachers, and routines that they enjoy and these concerns need to be honored. However, visiting a few schools and discussing with your child the new opportunities these schools offer is may help them to warm up to the possibilities.

What assessment tools do you use to tailor your services to my child's unique strengths and character?

To understand each child’s unique profile, we carefully read through transcripts, teacher evaluations, and any educational or psychological testing that has been done. If necessary, and with the family’s permission, we will contact the student’s teachers, tutors, and/or therapists to gain a fuller understanding of the student. If deemed appropriate, we will recommend that a child receive further evaluations.

Is it true that good connections can get your child into a school?

This is a very common misconception. While rumors abound, rarely have we found that a good connection is what has gained a child admission to a school. Above all, schools enroll students who will thrive academically, socially, and emotionally in their program and it is the strength of the child’s application on which admission decisions are made.

What qualifications and professional memberships do your consultants hold?

We are members of the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA), the international organization for educational consultants that holds its members to high ethical and professional standards. We are also members of various independent school and higher education associations that keep us abreast of the ever-changing lanscape in worlds of independent schools and higher education.

Can we have a preliminary conversation before we decide whether or not to engage your services?

Of course! We encourage everyone who is interested in learning more about our services to call. During that conversation we will answer any questions you may have, describe the range of services that we offer, and learn a bit about your child.