Secondary schools maze - help!

[Goldcoaster]

My D1 goes to Yr 7 in Sept 18. We're navigating the secondary school system for the first time and would value some honest thoughts. Does anyone have first hand experience of Carshalton Girls High School? How good is it both academically and socially? We live in the SM6 area and are also considering - Woodcote High and Riddlesdown. Is there a realistic chance of getting into either school and which is a better option.
Thanks!

[Willemdefoeismine]

Hi Goldcoaster

We had Carshalton High School as our first choice for DD (for entry in Sept. 2017) but unfortunately we didn't get it (live too far away). Previously I think it's been a case that everyone who has wanted a place has got one but the fact that there is now a 'catchment' area would suggest that the school's popularity is going from strength to strength.

We were very impressed on the Open Evening and DD really loved the vibe, so she was sad not to get in, particularly as one of her best friends is going there.

They have recently (just this past year) introduced 'Sports' and 'Music' scholarships for girls particularly able in one/both of those fields. Gives an added positive dimension and is something for local girls to aspire to if they're not necessarily super academic.

It seemed very culturally and socially mixed (which is really what one would want/expect from a comprehensive) from what we saw on the Open Evening, although appreciate that this doesn't necessarily reflect the full picture!

You can really only get a feel for if a school is right for your DD by visiting with her and determining if it's a good fit. Also worth driving/walking around the area at school start/end times - you will get more of an insight of what the girls are like 'out of school' (behaviour, adhering to uniform rules etc...) which often speaks volumes.

If you can visit any of the schools you're interested in this side of the summer hols (most now hold July and September/October Open Day/Evening events), so much the better. It means you have another opportunity to visit in the autumn term if you have shortlisted them on the basis of initial visits.

Good luck!

[Goldcoaster]

Willemdefoeismine thank you so very much for sharing this! I'll do well to arrange some school visits this side of summer. Very helpful tips.

[Toomanycats99]

Just seen this post - I'm also sm6. Woodcote catchment this year has stretched nearly to Wallington green I believe. I have only really heard positive things about it so am looking forward to seeing it.