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Original poster

Is private at primary actually worth it ?

159 replies

nottoruffle · 06/09/2024 12:55

I'm not here to ruffle feathers at all. I'm trying to decide what to do with my kids and whether private at primary is the thing for our family.

It's bloody expensive.

Is it worth it, is the million dollar question.

What kind of child tends to flourish at this type of school ? Will they be pushed too hard? or will they have more support as there are fewer pupils than in a states school ?

I'm looking at 3-18 co ed schools as I have a boy and a girl.

Any experience welcome.

OP posts:
JustASquareMoreChocolate · 06/09/2024 12:58

I think often people say it’s worth it for two reasons (1) extracurricular and (2) progression to secondary.

I went to private all-through from when I was 7, and siblings from 4. My son is at state primary. His state primary has lots of clubs, wraparound. Can do extra art and sport at school. I struggle to think of anything except swimming and maybe music that would be different for the £25k at private school (and longer holidays). We will tutor in y4/5 (we are in London) and see where we are financially for 11+ entry.

And100 · 06/09/2024 12:58

Blouseybiggal · 06/09/2024 12:58

No of course it isn’t. But in certain social circles parents feel that they have to go down this route

Ignorant post.

My friend's child (at 4yo) was allocated to a primary in an area nationally notorious for rioting, racism and crime. It was 100% worth if for her to send him private. There is no generic answer and each situation needs to be considered individually.

Original poster
nottoruffle · 06/09/2024 12:58

Ok what are the disadvantages, apart from paying for it ?

OP posts:
HauntedBungalow · 06/09/2024 12:58

State till eight sweetie 👌

Blouseybiggal · 06/09/2024 12:58

No of course it isn’t. But in certain social circles parents feel that they have to go down this route

And100 · 06/09/2024 12:57

MidYearDiary · 06/09/2024 12:55

No, of course not.

My friend's child (at 4yo) was allocated to a primary in an area nationally notorious for rioting, racism and crime. It was 100% worth if for her to send him private. There is no generic answer and each situation needs to be considered individually.

Pixilicious1 · 06/09/2024 12:57

My daughter has been private since 3. We love the school and she’s been very happy there, but would I do it again for primary? No. But definitely for senior school.

And100 · 06/09/2024 12:56

It will depend on your area and what is available. There is no generic answer.

There is gigantic variation between one state school and another.
There is gigantic variation between one private school and another.

MidYearDiary · 06/09/2024 12:55

No, of course not.