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Independent, liberal, creative, not-pushy secondary independent education SE or SW London

56 replies

mmoob · 19/04/2013 14:58

I'm looking for it all...

I am considering moving to either Greenwich/Blackheath OR Richmond/Kingston area. I am looking at (independent) secondary schools to see if the move is remotely feasible.

Both children are dyslexic but bright, creative and full of beans. They will need some extra help getting through some of the GCSEs but I want to find a school that can give this but also help them to really excel in the areas they are good at - i.e. the less academic areas - arts, after-school activities etc. A school that genuinely celebrates all-round achievement, not only exam results. A relaxed atmosphere with lots on offer/going on, particularly in creative subjects (art, DT, textiles, pottery, drama, music etc etc.). Co-ed or girls only both fine (daughters).

Some of the more nurturing schools I have considered in the past seem very small and slightly claustrophobic - and their size can often limit the extra opportunities available (for children who often depend more on those out-of-class opportunities).

Only looking at Independent schools at the moment as they will need the smaller classes for focus and support - and that is their experience to date.

Any schools leap out at anyone?

They will have to GET IN to these schools too - i.e. those with tough entrance exams will be a struggle.

Any thoughts much appreciated.

OP posts:
RMSeries2 · 19/04/2013 21:51

Have you considered Chestnut Grove? It is state, and so I don't know how they would deal with dyslexia but it might be worth looking into. Very good for art I believe and I've been hearing good things about it lately.

RMSeries2 · 19/04/2013 21:50

Think people are referring to Trinity in Croydon? Indy.

mmoob · 19/04/2013 21:35

Oh wow thanks for all the really helpful comments. St Dunstan's looks interesting... Would be interested to know more of its reputation. Does it have a reputation for being the school for all the less bright children/those who don't get in elsewhere - or do parents of bright children also choose it for the ethos? If so, what is the general impression of what that ethos is? Is it very 'trad'?

Have also considered Hampton Court House but feel unsure given some of the feedback... I like quirky too so maybe I should actually go an visit it...!

Love the sound of Alleyn's but just don't think the girls would stand a chance of getting in... Sadly.

Need to look at Trinity... Is that the state school? Generally the SEN provision at secondary level in state schools is weak... unless you have a statement (which we don't). But an amazing state school is definitely worth considering.

Emmanuel - where do most of the students live?

Thanks again for all the help all of you who have replied so far.

OP posts:
thewhistler · 19/04/2013 20:17

I was also going to say St Dunstan's where I know a couple of young people, and Emmanuel.

Royal Russell pretty small and wasn't quite good enough at the theatre for a really talented young man I know, but did well by a dyslexic sportsman.

I assume Alleyns and Dulwich too pressurized? The latter tests every boy for dyslexia in days 2 or 3 and has excellent sen support. Trinity v v good at music theatre and art, don't know about the sen side.

Zhabr · 19/04/2013 19:45

Surbiton High?

racingheart · 19/04/2013 19:33

St Dunstan's?
Emmanuel?
Hampton Court House? (I know there have been some very colourful MN posts about that school, but friends of mine send their DC there with fantastic results - lovely, happy children thriving in laid back, quirky atmosphere.)

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