List of fantastic non-selective state/cheaper private schools for boys/coed in/around London

[figcake]

Right, I am planning ahead for DS for secondary as he is apparently hard to teach in a conventional large class. I am looking for somewhere which will accommodate ermm 'characters' and provide strong pastoral care with an anti-bullying policy which is actually more than just a fancy document. I don't mind if it follows NC or not.

So far I have come up with just the one in Muswell Hill though the house prices in the catchment are for very average houses. I have questioned whether St Albans would be a possibility - is quite far out though not sure whether the commuting costs to London would prove to be a deal-breaker and it seemed a bit drab when we visited. I expect there are a few options in Surrey?? I would feel more comfortable with Surrey and Sussex than Herts though London would be easiest option all round.

I know that this is all a bit vague though I would appreciate your input. I have a DD though she is the type who would fit in anywhere which is why I am looking at it from DS' point of view.

figcake - can't make any specific recommendations along your exact needs but it might be worth looking at the state schools in Kingston - (which, as an LEA extends into Surbiton) they have a good reputation overall, and it's quie a nice place to live - with a reasonable variety of house prices.

Thanks hat - we have been considering Kingston for years, do love it actually so great recommendation. However, while the primaries are brilliant, the secondary school issue keeps coming up. I don't think I could safely assume that Tiffin would give him a look-in this early on - what would we be left with? Even the indies are £££ around there. I know that a new school may be built soon and the previous recs re Swedish schools but it all seems really uncertain post age 11.

We have considered a 2 move strategy - live in Kingston until late juniors than move away to the back of beyond for secondary and brave all that it entails until DS finishes school. This would mean DD changing secondary schools as well though.

figcake - I have friends whose daughter is at Hollyfields - and they love it (parents and daughter). so much so that they are not putting their second daughter up for Tiffin - even though she is bright as a button and would definitely stand a chance. Obviously can't say anything about the kinds of specifics you're interested in but I do keep hearing people praise Hollyfiels very highly.

I've also heard good things about Hollyfield and know a family who choose it for dc2 after dc1 was not thriving at Tiffin. You need to check out the 6th form situation though - I'm not sure how big it is.

Over in nearby New Malden is Coombe Boys, which is on the up. It is now run by the head of the highly successful Coombe Girls School.

I had a look at them online and yes, I agree, it looks like a lovely normal multicultural school. Hope it is still like that by the time DS is of the right age. I wonder how big the catchment will be? As long as a piece of string, I suppose. I love the vibe in Kingston though this is definitely in Surbiton territory, am I right?

You need to buy The Good Schools Guide - it has all the catchment areas listed. I know this is an old post so you've probably made your decision by now or moved!

Coombes boys school any good ?

ZOMBIE!