From the thread School Places in SE23

Good points made about the cost of childcare by IWAF; I had been thinking the same myself when I found out that I am paying Dulwich College levels of fees for a childminder and that costs of ?11-?12k per year are standard for both nursery and childminder fees,especially with younger children.

Although the Early Years Curriculum is great on paper, and great when your child gets a free nursery place, it does seem as if until that time the rest of us are paying for a private education already for children as young as 1-2 years old. Childminders have had to change the way they work to accommodate revised regulation practices by OFSTED and more stringent training requirements, and as a result have had to raise their fees. Many seem to be giving up altogether as they can't cope with the admin. Whilst is good to have so much professionalism in the sector I don't really see why my child has to follow a curriculum and structured sessions before two years old when all thats really needed is a safe pair of hands and a talent for inspiring children.

I agree these costs put private education into perspective however there will be additional costs such as uniforms, extra curricular classes and school trips to factor in, as well as the usual living expenses. Then there is making sure that you keep up with the Jonese on parents evenings in order not to let your child down.

I'd consider a private education for my child, even from 4th form, if I could afford it and felt it was critical to their academic success. Other than that what advantage can be gained from being forced to hang out with a load of rich kids who have more money than you. I went to a fairly strict girls grammar after passing my 11 plus; it was full of rich girls who hadn't passed as they didn't bother working for it and they could pay full fees. I do remember feeling very out of place with my second hand taken up uniform and second hand books. I wouldn't want my child to feel as inferior as I did. And is a private education even at secondary level automatically any better? Why not just supplement it with private lessons and tutoring as needed. Surely a much better and more affordable tactic?