Bishop Challoner Bromley

[MotherofPirates]

Anyone any recent experience of the junior school? Thinking of moving DC (Y2) but it's a huge decision for us and would love some input from those with experience. We've been for look rounds and the kids liked the look/feel of it as did we.

Main questions are do they get loads of homework, how much PE do they do and what is drop off pick up like (we'll have to drive I think)? What is it like being at such a small school?

Also are there any extra- curricular activities available for Y3s clubs etc. Looking for somewhere that feels caring and is a bit more fun than DCs current very strict un-fun state primary. Do feel free to PM me if you'd rather. Thanks.

[thewestsawake]

Loveley school with some great teachers. School has a new head who came from Bromley High and the whole admin side seems to have tightened up (not a strength under previous head)- eg we now get termly calenders which are fully detailed and set in stone like larger independent schools. School is firmly catholic but tolerant of all faiths. It does not hothouse though there is gifted and talented provision for the more able.

Plenty of PE delivered by specialists rather than the form teacher. Clubs like craft club, challenge club, martial arts, dancing and a creche for after school provision. Outdoor sports clubs when weather allows. Facilities vastly improved in recent years and the site has become much more secure.

It became an independant catholic charity a year or two ago (it was a slightly forgotten part of a larger charity before) and there was a management shake up shortly after and seems to be on an upward curve. Numbers stayed healthy throughout the last few years although class sizes are usually around 20.

[Scooby2566]

I have a child in the Senior School at Bishop Challoner and have to say it is fantastic. My child is very happy, the teaching is really good and the school has a wonderful feel to it.
Things have changed for the better and the standard of teaching has improved enormously over the past two years. The teachers know each pupil and pupils are encouraged to work hard in a friendly and caring environment.
I would definitely recommend the school to both juniors and seniors. The head is very fair and expects high standards (form her staff and pupils) and her commitment and dedication to the school can only make it even better.
The school offers great scholarships and bursaries and has good ex-curricular activities to suit all. It's well worth a visit - there is an open day in March or just ring the school and ask to come in. You will get a warm welcome!

[Scooby2566]

Also want to say that there have been huge improvements in the sixth form. The sixth form has a really strong academic base with small class sizes which encourages independent thinking and they get a huge amount of individual support. I've seen the sixth formers around the school and they seem very happy and confident individuals and they are fantastic with the younger children. The school has a good community feel to it.

[Schoolparent]

Lovely school with vast improvements inside and out. A happy atmosphere where all the staff know all the children. Wonderful all through school - happy child and happy parent!