Attain Independent Schools Guide

The Attain Independent Schools' Guide 2025 empowers parents to find the right school for their unique child, cutting through the marketing spin and without needing league tables or reviews.

It distils 25 years of experience into the definitive book for parents considering a private school for their child. Written by education editor Matthew Smith, the book has been widely-praised by Heads from across the country, describing it as 'a terrific resource', 'sage, sensible and savvy' and is 'the book that parents have been waiting for...'The Attain Guide 'helps parents cut through the branding, shiny PR and glitz' and is 'really well written, entirely from the perspective of supporting parents.'The book deliberately doesn't tell you which private schools are the best in the UK for exam success or rank the best for sport.

It does not list the best headteachers nor frankly tell you 'the best' at anything. What it does explain is why seeking out 'the best' for your child is one of the most unhelpful things you can do as a parent.

It shows you where to focus your thoughts and what matters when evaluating different schools.

You will see how marketing spin, league tables, awards and other unhelpful influences can get in the way. And it highlights the practical things which can make – or break – a choice of school. The Attain Guide covers the things to consider through to the things to avoid and how ultimately to make an informed decision. And to help in the process of shortlisting, details of over 700 independent schools are included in the Schools' Directory section. This book will tell you how to find the right school for your unique child – and be confident in that judgment.