Hurst and Ardingly

[LaLaLaWhoopsieDaisy]

Does anyone have experience of these two schools? They both seem good but I only have their websites to go on so far. Are they very selective? Do they put huge emphasis on sport (DS isn't massively sporty but I hope he'll find something he enjoys with enough choice).

DD is at Hurst and her brothers will almost certainly follow. We are very happy with it. I'm hearing that it is getting very selective - apparently they turned away 300 kids for year 9 last year (or so the rumour goes). But once in, we're not finding it massively pushy - it feels like they will make sure every kid reaches their potential, but they quite explicitly don't ask any more than that, so no one should ever feel stretched too far (look up their 'challenge grade' system). There is a lot of sport but we've been pleasantly surprised about how that's run too. No pressure to do a sport you hate - lots and lots of choice - and if you do want to be on a netball/hockey/rugby team, you will be on one, no matter how crap you are. They will find a way. Don't know Ardingly, but I think Hurst has something for everyone. I can only imagine you being miserable if you were someone who needed a lot of downtime - they keep them very busy - it's non-stop 8-6 and then loads of optional stuff in the evenings (plus prep of course). Happy to answer any questions.