Q&A with Richard Northey, Managing Director, The Education Consultancy
August 2024 -
Richard, you are an education consultant who assists clients in navigating the complexities of the British education system and offers your personal support to parents seeking the best school for their children. Could you explain your bespoke approach?
“An education consultant helps families to understand the different education systems available in the UK, from the day of birth up to the age of eighteen in my case, so that a family can make an informed decision in finding the right fit nursery and school for their child. I even work with a number of pregnant mums, as some schools do require families to register on the day of birth to maximise their chances of a place, whereas some nurseries do recommend registering before birth. Whilst some families may take the more strategic approach and plan years ahead, others may move to the UK or around the UK at short notice, thus they are seeking a solution which would be appropriate for their child.
It is important to understand a family’s aspirations for their child, but also the ability and talents of each child. I have worked with top British schools for many years and they know that families who are introduced via The Education Consultancy will have been vetted to ensure there is a potential match between family and school. A family will always consider more than one option, so that they can gain a feel for where the correct fit for them and their child would be, but I will seek to lobby their first-choice school, so as to maximise their chances of a place. It is very much a guiding process, whilst taking into account the location and preferences of the family.”
Aykroyd & Co has been fortunate to work with you for some years now. I know you place great importance on reputation and fostering relationships with key influencers, what value does this bring to your clients?
“A partnership with professional and knowledgeable people is always of great value to my clients. Homes and schools often go hand in hand, with many families seeking to find a school and then a property within close proximity, ideally walking distance. I know that when I refer a family to Akyroyd & Co they are in safe hands as they share the same values and integrity in working with clients. When you refer across to a partner your reputation is on the line, although my relationship with Akyroyd and Co is one where I never have a doubt that my clients would receive not only good advice, but also the highest standard of service in sourcing their new property.”
How do you assist your clients with seeking the right school and tutors?
“The key is finding the right fit school for each child. The British system has a global reputation and is a draw to many international families, but helping them to prepare for the schools who are not only challenging academically to access, but also are looking towards strong extra-curricular activities, as well ensuring the family have registered in good time. As much preparation as possible is always the key to success. It is not my role to tell a family to go to a particular school, as it is a very personal decision, but I do consider it the role of an education consultant to help families to understand their options and sometimes to challenge their perceptions and preferences.
One thing which does set me apart from some other companies is that I do not sign contracts with schools and do not receive commission from schools for placements; I consider this to be a conflict of interest and would not be representing just my client’s best interests when investigating school options. I work closely with tutors to help prepare pupils for entry exams and assess their current academic level. The feedback from these tutors is invaluable to monitor progress and even offer references to prospective schools.”
Lastly, we know you are a Formula 1 follower, how else do you find time to switch off away from the demands of such a well-respected consultancy business?
“This is a very good question! Along with following F1, particularly supporting McLaren who are starting to have a better season after some upgrades, I’m having a fascinating summer following The Ashes. I was lucky enough to visit Lord’s for the Saturday of the test and enjoyed eight Australian wickets – less said about the four England wickets and the end result the better! Good restaurants are always a fun way to relax with friends, with Paco Tapas in Bristol being a favourite.”