Hampstead/NW3 school

[Arty3542]

Hello!

We're moving from the States and wondering if anyone knows about St Mary's School in Hampstead. How is the school compared to other independent schools?

Thank you in advance!

[Arty3542]

:)

[fittedcupboard]

That's a primary isn't it? you might get more info on the primary education forum.

[WingingIt79]

We very nearly sent DD1 to this school. I loved the old head, the general vibe on touring, and also the fact the exit results at 11+ were pretty strong despite not being one of the favoured selective schools in the area. We ended up choosing a school closer to us for convenience, but a teeny tiny bit of me is still a little sad DD1 doesn't go there. I would be interested to hear from others about the new headteacher. Good luck!

[Arty3542]

Thank you!!

Why isn't it a "favoured selective school"?

[WingingIt79]

A number of schools in the area base 4+ entry on a formal assessment process. If you search these education forums you'll stumble across some of the madness surrounding these assessments. Some even tutor their 3 year olds! St Mary's does not assess, yet still a good number of their girls go on to some of the most selective secondary schools in north London. Also I imagine it is less favoured by a good number due to it being a catholic school. I hope this helps.

[airingcupboard]

St Mary's does not assess, yet still a good number of their girls go on to some of the most selective secondary schools in north London.

much of this is likely to be down to parental tutoring though

[WingingIt79]

True, although I am sure tutoring goes on at almost all the north London preps!

[airingcupboard]

Yes definitely