08/09/2026
My daughter began her third secondary school this week. She’s joined a creative arts school to study 5 GCSEs alongside something she’s really passionate about - performing arts.
Her first school was a high achieving, all girls school but it quickly became apparent that it was not the right setting. She struggled with friendships and the dramas that come with single s*x settings.
Her second school, our local comp, helped her feel like she belonged again. She suddenly became popular and it helped her heal. But something was missing. Academically she was still coasting with no clear journey.
Day three of her new school, school number 3, and for the first time in nearly 4 years she’s come home buzzing about the new curriculum, the people, the opportunities and the future. She’s spent all night doing her homework (preparing for a Verruca Salt solo), much to the dismay of our neighbours no doubt, and genuinely smiling for the first time in forever.
As a teacher, who followed the same educational path as my teacher parents before me (GCSEs, A Levels, university degrees), her journey has really opened my eyes to being brave enough to change the things that are not working and understanding that there are many different paths that can ultimately lead to the same destination.
It’s what I tell the many (many) parents who call me, worried about their young person’s journey. Whatever you’re doing for your child or young person -it doesn’t have to be forever. If it’s not working, then we can help look into alternative solutions for you too. Get in touch to have a chat about how we can support you best.
*In contrast, my son, who’s just started Year 7 at the local comp, only cares about the pizza wraps at break time 🤣*