spend time visiting schools, learning about their academic programmes, teachers and methodology, says Anne. Call admissions offces to ask about the possibility of being called for assessment before making the application, she advises.

Charlotte Douglas agrees that contact with the school is essential, though not always enjoyable. Once on a waiting list, be prepared to call regularly to chat with the school’s admissions staff – and be forceful if you have to. “You have to drill down. Find out where you are on the waitlist and then fnd out how that waitlist works,” she says.

While all ESF schools are over-subscribed, some locations are more in demand than others. Bradbury, Kennedy, Clearwater Bay, King George V and Glenealy Schools are very popular, yet also see a high turnover of pupils, meaning lists may

move faster than anticipated. “We would never encourage people not to apply. The application fee is still reasonable. You can’t lose. You can only gain,” says Jonathan Straker, head of student support with ESF. There are more openings in secondary schools, says Jonathan, so it’s worth planning for this and making an application in good time.

Applicants can also widen their chances of entering ESF by submitting to the organisation’s two privately run schools, says Jonathan, referencing ESF’s Renaissance and Discovery College schools.

There is hope

High fees and sparkling facilities do not always amount to the best education, Julie Forte stresses. “Try to do the best within your budget, and then don’t worry too much about it,” she says. What children need most is

a caring teacher who plans well. Find that, and you may just have hit gold. A secure environment will be harmonious for young children. Visit schools when children are having lessons. Once there, look for happy students, teachers interacting with kids down at their level, and bright, eye-catching displays highlighting students’ work – all indicators that the school is well-managed.

Whichever route you choose, try to stay calm, advises Julie. “Some parents spend every waking minute stressing and talking about it. You can’t do that.” Sometimes, she says, all you can do is wait.

That wait has fnally paid of f for Kelly Allan, who, this summer, learned that her eldest son has gained two school places for the coming year. That means just one more decision is brewing: Which school to choose?

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