Acland Burghley

@Lndndad as did I....

This is one of our local schools (DS in year 5) and would appreciate some up to date views. Seems to be quite a 'marmite' school - I've heard both that it's fantastically creative and nurturing with a real sense of community...but also that it's rife with social problems and somewhat fails more academic kids - teaching not brilliant etc.

Despite the negative views, it seems to have become increasingly popular each year with local families. Have heard catchment will become even smaller now because William Ellis (other local option for boys) has been downgraded by Oftsted.

Would love to hear any experience or views - good or bad! Thanks.

@Lndndad I assumed the OP was the parent of the child in the article.

Another not-so-incredibly-positive experience:

www.camdennewjournal.co.uk/article/school-discriminated-against-disabled-pupil

Yes, lots of experience, all incredibly positive, including an incident of bullying which was handled swiftly and effectively and resolved within 24 hours. My child has moderate SEN and the pastoral care has been simply outstanding and academic support is superb.

I'm very sorry you've had such a negative experience. I assume you've spoken to the Head and Governors?

SamBee, Camdenish, I guess what the OP meant was (and I would be interested to know as well) whether she was just unlucky or bullying is a serious issue at AB. It is our local comp and although parents with children attending are raving about it, posts like AJH40's one would put me off entirely from even considering putting that choice down. I guess a lot of parents are keen to understand the true nature of AB - is it really this great school with this great headteacher turning it around and on the up etc or is it really an awful place where children don't learn anything as they spend most of their time hiding from bullies - and bullyism being tolerated/ignored/not addressed?

Yes, I’ve experience of the school. What would you like to know?

Your post sounds similar to a local family who seem like they’ve had a particularly tough time with the school. I’m not up to date with the case I’m afraid.

I know many families whose children are happy andsettled there.

Yes, lots of experience.

But this sounds like a case for the headteacher, the governors and possibly the police in that order - with mumsnet coming down the list? Have you done that?