#14 Jonathan Besley, Head of Brighton College Prep Handcross
In this episode of Destination Education UK with Ruth Benny, we sit down with Jonathan Besley, Headmaster of the newly rebranded Brighton College Prep Handcross—formerly Handcross Park. Jonathan joins us fresh from a whirlwind six-day visit to Hong Kong, where he’s been meeting parents, interviewing students, and dodging both rainstorms and typhoons.
We explore everything from the decision to rebrand, to the sometimes uncomfortable truth that many families—particularly in Asia—do choose schools based on brand. Jonathan speaks candidly about his own experience as a boarder from the age of eight, how boarding has evolved, and why cosiness, care, and community now sit at the heart of the modern prep school model. We also dive into parent expectations, anxiety in young people today, common-sense parenting (which isn’t always so common), and how international families can find the school culture that truly fits their child.
Don’t miss this insightful conversation!
💡 Why Listen:
The Rebrand: From Handcross Park to Brighton College Prep Handcross
Jonathan's Own Boarding Story — Starting at Just Eight Years Old
What Modern Prep School Boarding Looks Like Today
International Boarders & Cultural Integration
Characteristics of Hong Kong & Chinese Families
Anxiety, Pressure & Common-Sense Parenting
What Actually Drives Academic and Long-Term Success
What International Parents Are Really Buying Into
Can't wait for you to plug into this conversation, so grab a cup of tea☕️ and enjoy the episode!
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Enjoy the episode for expert advice to guide your school selection journey. Visit www.topschoolsadmissions.com for more on Brighton College Prep Handcross, and to enquire via our exclusive link. Start exploring top UK schools today!
Chapter Lists
00:00 Introduction to Jonathan Besley and Brighton College Hand Cross Prep
02:54 The Impact of Branding in Education
06:02 Jonathan's Personal Boarding Experience
09:00 The Evolution of Boarding Schools
11:58 The Role of Boarding in Child Development
14:51 Diversity and Integration in Schools
17:59 Parental Expectations and Academic Pressure
20:55 Balancing Expectations and Child Well-being
23:59 The Importance of Play in Child Development
27:19 The Impact of Home Environment on Children
32:38 Evolution of Boarding Schools
36:41 Supporting Neurodivergent Children
39:01 The Shift in Teaching Methodologies
40:50 Balancing Exams and Skills Development
43:40 The Role of Extracurricular Activities in Education
46:10 Future Trends in Education
48:47 Memorable Moments in Education
50:35 Nurturing Children for Success
52:01 The Challenges of Parenting
53:43 Understanding Child Behaviour and Psychology
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The Destination Education UK podcast is your ultimate guide to navigating the exciting, sometimes overwhelming journey of studying in the UK. Hosted by Ruth Benny— education expert and parent with firsthand experience raising children educated in Hong Kong and the United Kingdom—this show delivers insights, expert tips, inspiration and practical strategies for parents and students in, or considering the UK education system. If you're a parent on this journey—start here. Follow along, and let's take the stress out of school admissions together.
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