Sunninghill Prep School V's Knighton House V's Castle Court

[KAHsch]

Hello,

I have been avidly reading threads on this site and found everyones comments very helpful.

We are looking for an independent school for our 7 year old daughter next year entering prep. She loves ponies, art, music and is generally very creative. She seems to enjoy and cope with the academics but really her passion is seems to be in the arts. She is not especially sporty but does enjoy riding.

We have been to see Knighton House and loved it. We are considering all our options so also viewing Castle Court and Sunninghill Prep School.

I have read the other threads about Castle Court, some of which are quite out of date. I wondered if anyone had any recent experience of Forms 2/3/4 and what their thoughts are? I hear there is a new head at Castle Court, is he liked? We are viewing Castle Court this week.

I have heard Sunninghill is a very friendly school but the headmaster is growing the school 'too quickly' and it has been causing some dissatisfaction with long term families leaving? I have been told it is in a period of aggressive recruitment and main focus is on bringing the numbers in. Does anyone know whether this is the case? No plans to view Sunninghill yet but prob will as to do our diligence.

Knighton House seemed so lovely, sounds like they get the results whilst keeping them as children for as long as possible. I am not wild on Saturday school however.

I guess we will find out this week but does Castle Court or Sunninghill have Saturday school?

Has anyone experienced two of the schools and can compare or any of the schools. I feel like the longer we look the harder it becomes.

Many thanks in advance!

There have been no new classrooms built. A hall is now a classroom which is not the same thing. It holds two classes.

It was never said that the teachers were not qualified. Please reread the post. It is possible for any private school to hire inexperienced/unqualified staff as it is not a requirement. They don't have to follow the same procedures as state schools. Two other independent schools have closed in the area so yes the demand for places has increased. Local state schools are excellent but most are at full capacity.

I have friends whose children were at Sunninghill and they did thrive there. Of course any prospective parent should look around and make up their own minds on whats best for their children.

Just another thought is to where your child will go onto after prep school. Quite a high number of Sunninghill pupils do choose to go onto Thomas Hardye the local comprehensive which has an excellent reputation.

Is Hanford in your area? I have friends who sent their daughters there. Really lovely girls and although now much older speak so fondly of their time at Hanford.

Obviously things may have changed with time (they are at Uni now) but perhaps worth a look, if you are still at the weeding them out stage.

My daughter has been at Knighton House since reception and is now about to start her last term there. I have found it a very warm and friendly school which succeeded all my expectations and more. The teaching staff do a very thorough job and teach children as individuals which I believe is very important in a prep school. There has never been any major bullying incidents while she has been there. Although a few hiccups which the pastoral staff quickly dealt with. Whilst Saturday school can be seen as a extra effort, Knighton Saturday school can include the whole family inviting them to weekly church services and frequent matches. Boarding is a very enjoyable experience and my daughter describes it as a home from home. Would thoroughly recommend Knighton House.

I second Hanford, especially if your dd is horsey

I would just add that it's all about personal choice so would urge anyone to visit Knighton to gain an insight into the warm, friendly, caring school it is. Girls are impeccably mannered, nurtured and stretched academically. Leaver destinations this year include scholarships for Malborough and Bryanston to name but two. Music and riding are heartily encouraged for all. 'Come and see' is what I would say and you will know instantly. Hope that helps! www.knightonhouse.dorset.sch.uk/

I have to agree with everyone who mentioned Hanford. I went there and so did my daughter and things have not changed a bit. It is the only school I have ever ever heard of that provides the most natural upbringing for a child. Honestly it is just astounding. The environment is brilliant with everyone waking up for early morning rides across the countryside and taking initiative is naturally introduced. You create your own houses out of wood etc. Honestly I just couldn't recommend this school enough! I went back to visit it the other day with my friend (also from Hanford) and had an hour long chat individually with most of the teachers (most of whom haven't changed since I was there) as they just wanted to talk and to see what I had done in my life. You just couldn't wish for anything better for both parents and pupils as firm friendships are created all around. Truly I cannot begin to express the joy it brought me going there.

Academically as well, it is incredibly impressive. An incredibly high percentage each year of girls get scholarships to schools such as Bryanston, St Marys Shaftesbury, Malborough, St Marys Ascot, Sherborne etc. I would honestly be prepared to say that there just isn't another school like it.

Hi KAHsch are you still looking for a prep school? If so, Knighton House Open Day is on October 12th. I would advise you to go along and see the school. www.knightonhouse.dorset.sch.uk

I loved Sunninghill but that was many years ago and only for a term. But still my most fond memories of school!

Have you considered Talbot Heath? Then you have a good school the whole way through.

I'd say Hanford. Supposed to have a friendly and family like atmosphere, quite creative girls , lots of outdoors (climbing trees etc) and ponies to ride. Good record for entry to well known schools, particularly in the West Country, eg Sherborne girls and Bryanston.

Hanford lovely but quite eccentric and a friend removed dd because of bullying.

Might not be ideal then, I agree. I do think that bullying can be very damaging and that schools should have clear bullying policies.

I am afraid i have to disagree with the last post i have children at the school, especially the religion comment and losing good staff they have fantastic teachers ......i dont know where you heard the head was on the move but i sincerely hope not because he is brilliant !!

I am torn between two boarding school for my 8 year old daughter. Hanford School and Windlesham House School. Can anyone help please?

I have PMed you. It might be worth starting a new thread.