Aibu to ask about Bristol private schools?

[Goingprivate2020]

Bright child, bit lazy, but happy, well adjusted etc. We want coed for secondary (2021), am I being unreasonable to only want to apply for one school (plus state)? Two exam processes seems unduly demanding for a state educated child with previously hands off parents (local state provision during Covid was v poor at primary and secondary level).

I’m told Clifton high is great for more needy kids who need greater pastoral care but that the very bright are creamed off by BGS. But BGS seems too pushy based on parents I know and general reputation. Anyone with personal experience out there to help repackage BGS as something other than pushy? Or Clifton high as perfect for the very bright?

Have you been able to visit both schools?

Years ago a collection of Bristol day schools collaborated on entrance exams - DC only sat one exam for entry to about five schools. Mind you, I imagine that's changed as a couple have gone to the state sector, two merged etc. etc.

On the bad side, BGS for drugs and Clifton College for molesting, on the good side, BGS for academic results and Clifton College for sports and extra curricular.

Choose your poison and make your compromises.

(I'm joking they're both good schools).

With a bright but lazy, I'd go with BGS if you can gain entry and Clifton College if child is a bit sporty and into other activities. I understand that CC's academic results are weaker as they cater somewhat to kids needing additional academic support.

Badminton could also be a good option, if a girl?

It’s Clifton high we were looking at, not Clifton
college. College is horribly snobbish and wealth orientated and they definitely aren’t our people!

I’d heard the BGS drug story but it’s a single high profile case as far as I can see?

Definitely don’t want single sex. Male friends are too important and girls can be vile to each other - they need to be diluted!

Definitely individual entrance now. And they compete for the ‘best’ pupils. Feels very different from state.

Not sporty at all , but very musical/dramatic.