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Original poster

11+ independent schools decision (LEH vs KGS)

30 replies

EtvaLee · 16/02/2026 20:37

Seeking some insight for a difficult 11+ decision! We are currently choosing between Lady Eleanor Holles (Academic Scholarship) and Kingston Grammar (Music Scholarship).

We generally prefer Co-Ed and a less 'hot house' atmosphere but at the same time value intellectual and academic challenge. She is a budding scientist who loves Maths and Physics. We want to ensure she is academically stretched in STEM.

Our daughter is a keen swimmer, loves the idea of Lacrosse (Malory Towers influence!), and want to try rowing. We live in Twickenham and aren't moving.

Would love to hear from current parents at either school! Thank you!

OP posts:
Aroundandabout · 16/02/2026 22:05

EtvaLee · 16/02/2026 21:26

Thank you so much. May I know if you are a parent of either school or an educator please? I am just wondering if KGS can also stretch pupils as much and nurtures equally academic pupils. Really hope I can hear some real experience…

Oh sorry, sure. I’m a parent but of a year 6 child at LEH….but have friends with children in the senior school and have been a local for ages (going there myself / thankfully it’s changed!). So I can’t give you absolutely first hand and wouldn’t say it’s without its faults but given what your daughter is after, your location and that she got a scholarship, I’d definitely go with it…. (I have a son too so have considered alternatives!).

Readyforseptember · 16/02/2026 21:38

LEH seems like a no brainer. My understanding is that they share some cocurriculars with the boys school next door such as orchestra so your DD would still be around boys just not for the academic stuff. Swimming pool, lacrosse, geographical location are great for you.

deanstreet · 16/02/2026 21:29

KCS of course, but KGS no

Original poster
EtvaLee · 16/02/2026 21:26

Thank you so much. May I know if you are a parent of either school or an educator please? I am just wondering if KGS can also stretch pupils as much and nurtures equally academic pupils. Really hope I can hear some real experience…

OP posts:
Aroundandabout · 16/02/2026 21:11

I think if you’re going with what your daughter is after, LEH has to be it! But obviously if you want co-ed, a small problem (although thousands of boys about 100m away……) 😂.