Where to start?? Help me identify some schools?

[DaysofHoney]

Hi all.

DS has expressed a desire to explore boarding school options. He’s in Y6 now so would need to be Y9 entry, and we’ve no doubt missed the boats for lots of schools already. Currently overseas so would be ISEB at Yr 7 assessment, or a school with less rigid application process - which may well suit him better.

DS:

Bright but not studious - needs pushing and needs structure. Maths and STEM stronger than English. Possible dyslexia but undiagnosed (screener was borderline and doesn’t seem to impact learning).

Sporty and excels in athletics and swimming. No experience of rugby, cricket, or hockey though. Loves outdoor stuff, DOE, CCF very much on the list of requirements.

Makes friends quickly and has always been popular, but is also sensitive. Not a super confident character in class (shares ideas and contributes but is quieter) - he will come to life once surrounded by friends outside of school.

Enjoys drama and until recently had a real passion for dance - somewhere he could pick these up again would be great.

School:

The location - central England, Home Counties preferably. Easy access to London and Heathrow or Gatwick would be important.

Must take ISEB at yr7, or have their own admissions process that’s holistic and not overly academically focused.

Pastoral would be important, and I suspect he’d prefer somewhere medium sized to either huge or tiny.

Prefer a school that is fully boarding (would have family nearby for occasional weekends out but assume full boarding).

Any experience of anywhere that sounds like it fits the bill would be hugely appreciated!

thanks.

Definitely look at Royal Hospital School (RHS) in Suffolk. Others have suggested it too I think. Sounds like it would tick a lot of boxes and CCF continues to be strong there - has not been removed.

Another vote for RHS as a possibility. Huge grounds, very outdoorsy - CCF (very much still in existence) and D of E both important. Great pastoral care too, and amazing teaching. It has a very varied and inclusive intake, and children of all abilities do well. Excellent range of co-curricular stuff - fabulous music, good drama, and some real athletics successes recently. Well worth visiting to get a feel for the place - it's has something very special.

I've sent you a DM - please do get in touch, I've helped a lot of families and am currently helping a family in exactly your position. Do check your private messages and I'd be happy to have a chat.

I would not choose schools which aren't full boarding (like RHS), unless you truly don't mind weekly boarding... but sounds like you're overseas and will be for a while.

I would recommend Oundle v highly. Central England, phenomenal education.

Stowe