Brighton College

[violetsareblue11]

Hello again! Since in my last thread which was a discussion about whether to choose Tonbridge or Chartherhouse for my ten year old DS2 who is about to sit the pre-tests for these two said schools- I had a lot of you suggesting Brighton College for him after I said about his love for dance- so I've started a new thread to see what we can expect from the school. We're already going to be shown around in September, but I'd love to know more about Brighton College from any parents of pupils who are at the school, or from anyone who has experience with BC at all. I've also heard a lot of rumours of hothousing, and "culling" (IYKWIM) the children who can't cope. Is there any truth in these rumours? I'd also like to know how's BC with football, tennis and swimming (DS2'a other passions). We may consider BC as another school for DS2 to pre-test for, along with Tonbridge, Charterhouse and Kings Canterbury, so it'd be great to get some information! Thanks!

[happygardening]

"culling"
I suspect all the schools you list will ask those who are not getting the necessary grades to leave. Even those considered to be fairly non selective will. Of course the more academic the school is the higher the bar will be. But I would let this put you off any particular school.

[ponymad9]

Hi, have had some friends whose children had a very nice time at the school. One family in particular loved the dance school - boys do dance there too especially I think in the senior school,
and the sports curriculum is very big. hope you find the right school for your family :-)

[Anotherhovemum]

Hi, I work at Brighton College as support staff and also know lots of parents who send their children here. When I first arrived, all I knew was that it was a very high-achieving school but what's been really interesting is seeing the high levels of pastoral care. Teachers are just as concerned that the children are happy, engaged in their school lives and making the most of the pretty amazing facilities and opportunities as they are about their academic life. I see the children here every day and I can tell you that they seem a very happy bunch indeed!

[tiredofcommuting]

Hi, Not sure if this is too late but just in case useful. My DD has been weekly boarding in the 6th form for the past term and a half and absolutely loves the school. She's much happier than at her previous school, which was a good Kent grammar. Says the teaching is way better, staff really make the subject interesting and give much more depth and context, lots of excellent extra-curricular activities and lectures and so forth. Apparently the music, dance, drama and sport are very strong even though that's not so much her bag. Pastoral care seems excellent so far.

[Ringstar]

My DS weekly boarded for 5 years and was extremely happy as well. He loved the school and I agree teaching and pastoral care are very good. He was very sad to leave and looks back with fond memories. DS did very well academically (teachers wonderfully supportive and to my mind the school is not a hot house) and yes huge range of extra curricular activities on offer? Key thing is my son was rather shy and awkward when he arrived but the school gave him confidence and he has a lovely set of friends. He was previously at a London school till 13 and there was no comparison. I love the ethos of the school. He settled so quickly and we never looked back.

[Brightonhome]

Hi, no sons, just a dance-mad DD in Y7 at Brighton College Prep School.
There are a few boys who dance and they are all very good and commited to their craft. The teaching standard is excellent and my DD got ten points above distinction in ballet, tap and modern in the last set of exams. They have an annual dance show which is simply stunning. The dance show rehearsals take up most of the summer term, so they don't shoot through the grades, but when they take them, they excel.
Google James Duprey Brighton Dancer, he's one of our best male dancers.
www.theargus.co.uk/news/11703063.Teenager_from_Brighton_selected_to_represent_England_at_the_Dance_World_Cup/