Jo Cameron, Principal of Queenswood School,

Hertfordshire, explains Senior School and what you need to consider when making the right choice for your child
The day has arrived ? you need to consider Senior school options for your child. Moving from a cosy little primary or Prep where everything is familiar to a larger school can be a seriously daunting experience for you and your child. The good news is ? there are many wonderful schools out there in which your child will thrive. The less good news is that there are a vast number of factors to weigh up before making that final choice. If you?re just at the beginning of this big adventure, here are a few things that you may like to consider ? although not necessarily in this order ? everyone has different priorities.  Maintained or independent sector"
Depending on the quality of local state provision and your resources, you may decide to investigate the local state secondary schools or independent schools, indeed some parents look at both. Lack of resources shouldn?t necessarily put you off thinking about independent schools, as many offer bursaries.
Day or boarding"
This may not be as straightforward a decision as you may think. Many parents find it difficult to imagine their 10 year old living away from home for all or part of the week. However, not only do some youngsters actively embrace it, these days it?s not an all-or-nothing choice. Many schools that offer day and boarding provision also offer flexi-boa...