London state secondary school recommendations?

[LetLoveWin]

I need to apply for my DS next summer, so it's research time! We can move anywhere in London, so any borough would work. We are not religious, so a secular school would suit us best, and it needs to be mixed as I have a DD too. Both kids' main passion is art. Academically, DS is probably in the top band, DD in the middle band. So far I'm keen on Holland Park, Platanos College and King Solomon, so if anyone knows these and can give inside info, or has any other recommendations, that would be amazing.

[Muminfire]

I know only about Surrey's and south-west schools. Good schools in this area are Combe Boys and Combe Girls, Greenshaw, Graveney, St.Sicilia, Ashcraft Academy in Fulham

[Cleo1303]

Fortismere in Muswell Hill, but you'll need to live about 20 feet from the school!

[LetLoveWin]

Thanks guys, will look into all of these!

[NWgirls]

If my memory serves, don't get too excited by King Solomon: It fills all places from its own primary school, so very tricky to get in. (Reception is the time to get in there, or perhaps an occasional place if you live within spitting distance.)

[Cafeconleche]

UCL Academy in NW3 - but you need to live less than 0.5 miles to get in, so Primrose Hill, Swiss Cottage, Belsize Park, St John's Wood. Co-ed and sponsored by the university

[Mandzi34]

If you want Holland Park you will need to be living less than 0.4 of a mile to secure a place.

[MaryMargaret]

I know someone at UCL academy who doesn't think it's great.

[MaryMargaret]

Sorry, that was a bit blunt, but I don't know much more, just that they had been thinking of changing schools.

[LetLoveWin]

Thanks so much, all. Although I started this thread for my DS, we've just been offered a place at Platanos for my DD to start in Year 7 this September and we are going to go for it! I just had a day there and it seems like they do well by all pupils, whether SEN or academic, and have been tied top of the (non-religious, state) secondary league tables for their borough for several years now. Strong anti-bullying policy, and good discipline. Outstanding Ofsted in last 3 reports. Shame there's no classical orchestra, but there is a pop band and they seem strong on art too. If anyone has insider info on this school, do let me know!

[RiverTam]

South east London here - Haberdashers (New Cross) and Charter (Dulwich) seem to be the ones to go for around here. Again you have to live within about a sneeze of the school, I think.