Good Boys schools in New Malden/ Kingston Area

[Thisonesfortheroad]

Hey, slowly dawned on me this Christmas that DS has very little time left at his lovely primary. Where do boys head for Secondary in this area, catholic/ church schools are not an option for us, but I don't hear good things about Coombe Boys?

[JoJoSM2]

Based on gossip from people in that area, it seems not to have been that desirable in the past but has become much more so in the recent years. Not sure what current parents complain about but it’s definitely strong academically.

[Thisonesfortheroad]

Thanks @JoJOSM2, I think I will have to check out for myself once I establish when their open days are.

Am really concerned however. I don't see many other choices around here - the others we appear to be out of catchment, or fail the eligibility requirement for. Kingston Academy for example - catchment is around 1km!

Surely, the LA has to place all kids somewhere? They give us the opportunity to put up to 6 schools down. So where/ what are they?

[JoJoSM2]

Realistically, families only have 2 choices (speaking of non-faith, non-selective schools) if they’re lucky. If you’re unlucky, you could be in a black hole. I’d imagine that Chessington is probably undersubscribed so that’s what you get offered if you’re in a black hole.

Currently, you also have bulge years to contend with making spaces even tighter and admission distances shorter.

I think it’s definitely worth checking Coombe out. Alternatively, some people move house to get their preferred school but that’s obvs a lot of expense and upheaval.

[JoJoSM2]

PS I don’t know where you are exactly, but you could also check out neighbouring boroughs to see if you’re close enough to one of their schools.

[Thisonesfortheroad]

@JoJoSM2 It does lol like there really are only two options - one we’re apparently out of catchment for, but Chessington would be even further!

The closest school to us is actually a super selective so looks like Coombe boys is it. Unless of course there are too many boys...

[Fennelandlovage]

I saw your other thread. If Tiffin boys is your local you may be in catchment for TKA and also Teddington. Have you checked out Southborough High? Maybe even Holyfield? Good luck