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Independent School Selection
We help families navigate the UK’s independent school sector with genuine insight. It’s not just about results but about finding a community, a fit, and an environment where your child will thrive.
Our expertise includes:
- A personalised shortlist based on academic profile, interests, and personality
- Advice on competitive entry points, timelines, and application materials
- Preparation for student interviews and entrance assessments
- Support coordinating school visits and debriefing after
Boarding School Advice
Boarding school can be an excellent choice — but only when it aligns with your child’s temperament and ambitions. We guide families through what can be as much an emotional decision as a practical one.
Our expertise includes:
- Guidance on whether boarding is right for your child
- Insights into full vs weekly boarding models
- Evaluation of schools’ pastoral provision and boarding culture
- Preparation for the emotional and practical transition
International School Placement
For families relocating or exploring global options, we provide targeted support for securing the right school— whether in the UK or abroad. Our global experience ensures academic continuity and smooth transitions.
Our expertise includes:
- Curriculum transitions and credit transfer planning
- Advice on UK vs International school systems
- Language and SEN considerations in different settings
- Recommendations from our trusted international school network
Emergency School Placement
When a school situation changes suddenly, we provide rapid solutions to help families secure an excellent alternative placement quickly.
Our expertise includes:
- Mid-year or last-minute school placement guidance
- Calm, confidential advice in complex or sensitive circumstances
- Access to Lionheart School, if spaces permit
- Direct communication with schools able to respond flexibly
- Full support with documentation and expedited admissions
Our Process
What you can expect with Lionheart
You’ll be supported by some of the UK’s leading school consultants — including former heads, senior registrars and education specialists — who take the time to understand your child’s academic profile, personality and goals.
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Initial Consultation
We begin with a detailed consultation to understand your child’s academic background, personality, and interests.
This initial conversation shapes the direction of our work — whether your child needs immediate placement, future planning, or academic preparation.
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Assessment & Preparation
Most students undertake an academic assessment, allowing us to identify both strengths and areas where tuition may be helpful.
Some children need preparation before applying, while others are ready to proceed. We tailor the process accordingly.
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Schools Shortlisting
Once we’ve reviewed assessments, reports, and relevant context, we create a personalised list of recommended schools.
We discuss each option with you in detail, refine the shortlist together, and move forward only once the fit feels right.
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Reports & Introductions
We contact schools individually and submit a detailed Lionheart report for each application.
These reports are trusted by admissions teams to present a complete, accurate, and insightful profile of the student.
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School Visits & Application Support
Where timelines allow, we arrange school visits and adjust the shortlist based on your impressions.
We then support the application process — managing dates, preparing for interviews or pre-tests, and overseeing tuition if required.
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Continuous Access to Lionheart
We remain your main point of contact throughout. From coordinating communication with schools to navigating offers and decisions, we ensure the process is calm, strategic, and fully supported — right through to confirmed placement.
Hear From Our Consultants
"I've spent much of my career in schools helping parents work out what will be the right next school for their child - it's a tough thing to go through on your own."
Charlotte F. UK Independent Schools Specialist
Hear From Our Consultants
"We're very used to working alongside the school and the family, tweaking things so that a child gets into the school that they always deserved to go to in the first place."
Rupert Syme Chairman & Co-Founder
Frequently asked questions
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Can you help if we’re applying last-minute or mid-year?
Yes. Many families come to us in time-sensitive situations — due to relocation, school refusal, or breakdown in a current setting. We specialise in helping students find the right place, even when timelines are tight.
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Do you only work with London schools?
No. While many of our clients are London-based, we work across the UK — including top boarding schools, selective day schools, and international curricula. We also assist with international school placements worldwide.
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What happens if our child isn’t quite ready to apply?
In some cases, we recommend academic support before beginning the application process. This might include tuition, coaching for assessments, or time to rebuild confidence. We’ll advise you clearly on what’s needed.
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What makes Lionheart different from other school consultants?
Gentle preparation can begin around 18 months before the assessment through natural play activities that develop the skills schools look for – listening, following instructions, social interaction, and basic cognitive abilities. However, we strongly advise against formal preparation before age 3, as this can create anxiety and resistance to learning.
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How do you select tutors for early years children?
Our team doesn’t rely on rankings or glossy brochures. We invest time in understanding your child’s needs, then match them with schools where they’ll genuinely thrive. Our reports, relationships and ongoing support give families — and schools — real confidence in the fit.
Begin your search with confidence
Discover how our consultancy can help you choose the best school for your child’s learning needs.
