Good Secondary Match for Dallington School?

[austinmom]

Hello,

We are a family moving here from the US for a couple of years, and have a newly-turned 14 year old boy, a 4 year old girl, and an almost 3 year old boy.

Through thousands of hours with my best friend "Google", I found Dallington School and really like the feel of it for my younger ones.

We've decided to pick schools first, and then choose our long-term home based on where they are.

Of course we're fine having the big one commute up to 40 minutes each way (that's what we're looking at with any of the schools we've been looking at out west).

My husband will commute to the Oxford/Regent Street are, but he's okay will a reasonable commute too.

The areas that have caught our eye are Notting Hill, Holland Park, Bayswater, Hampstead, Highgate, Islington/Angel (for it's slightly more funky/artsy feel). But I'm running internet circles and have settled on nothing.

So my big queston is... is there a natural match for our Year 9 boy? He's always been ahead of his class, and is a great learner, but he does struggle somewhat with organization and time management. Basically, we want somewhere with very very good academics/learning, but not too ridiculously stressed out about test scores and ranking.

Does this exist?! Any insight welcome!

Thanks,

Amanda

By the way, because my husband's relocation package makes most scenarios possible financially (what is this foreign planet have we been transported to? ;) ).

By the way, we've mainly been looking at American and International school, but have finally come to the decision that we're less concerned with the "system" and more interested in the right learning environment. Ideally a place where students are encouraged and supported, respected and thoroughly challenged intellectually.

(FYI, UCS is full.)

"Basically, we want somewhere with very very good academics/learning, but not too ridiculously stressed out about test scores and ranking.

Does this exist?! "

In a word -- no. The academically high-achieving schools work hard for their league table positions, they can't afford to be laid back. And given the scrum for Y7 and (for some schools) Y9 entry, I'd be really surprised if any had spare places for a 14yo.

There isn't a secondary equivalent of Dallington anyway, unless you count places like King Alfred's. But they are not academically high-achieving. Y7 is when the rubber hits the road, you either want laid back, or you want good grades. There's not much inbetween, in the private sector anyway.

You'll probably have to go with the international system, or try Fortismere. But with state schools you won't be able to apply until you actually have an address here.

I think you might find it easier to get into a less academic school since places like ucs probably full. Since it's only for a couple of years this could be fine. With all the other things going on, ie move to London and all the new opportunities, maybe you can afford to take the brakes off academically? In this case, Northbridge House or Portland Place - both good locations for your husband's work.
ps for the primary school ones don't discount state. It gives you an good entry into the local community if they go to local school plus from what I gather they'll not be missing out anything academically in comparison to Dallington.

Hello Polly,

You have an interesting challenge! London schooling is a bit of a nightmare, especially if you are not starting from the beginning. I live in Islington; and, to be blunt, the state options are not appealing.

A relatively local boys' school which you might look at is City of London boys'. I don't have personal experience; but it has a good reputation and I think that a number of children from Dallington go on there. It may be a good idea to ask Dallington what they think about senior schools generally. Unfortunately the good schools in London tend to be wildly over-subscribed and I think that you will need luck to find sone which has a free place in yr. 9/10

Here's an idea from left field, which will probably make you fall off your chair in horror; but, if you are getting help with fees, it may be an option and it would solve the geographical problem. Have you considered a boarding school for your 14 year old? Many of them have great academic standards without being as "hothouse" as the London schools and it would be a really interesting cultural experience for your son. He would make close friends for life with people from all over the world; and would probably be able to come home most weekends. Most are co-ed.

Have a look at "The Good Schools guide" as well.

Good luck!

Hey, that's exactly what i've finally decided over the last few days! We toured Bedales yesterday and fell in love. Exactly what I've been looking for. Very strong intellectual curriculum, and very progressive atmosphere.

And our son is begging to board there.

Now, to work on that second mortgage, corporate tuition assistance, second job, and massive estate sale!!! And possible sale of one of younger children to fill in the leftover gap -- especially considering that my husband is paid in US dollars. Ouch.

You never know what you can accomplish though when you set your mind on something for your kids....

Thanks again for all the great ideas and support!

Amanda

St Christophers in Letchworth might be worth a look too.

Sorry, just realised that I got your name wrong.

Bedales is a wonderful place (not for mine: he's a lover of rules and daft uniforms)and will be worth every penny. Welcome to an experience at the heart of British culture- struggling to find the fees.

Frensham Heights is also similar, and a little cheaper. But Bedales is lovely (if only...)

Just an update--

My son was accepted into Bedales right before Xmas break, and he started there last week (and so far my husband's company is paying the bill thank god)!

He loves it, seems like an absolutely great match.

Thank you all for your time and support to keep me going in the school search, right when I was about to give in and settle.

Take care!
Amanda

Does anyone have an SEN child ( high functioning autism) at Frensham Heights?