Buckswood, Claremont (Independent Boarding in Sussex)

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Dear Parents,
We are new to this forum and are seeking guidance and feedback on school choices from parents. We have reviewed OFSTED Reports for both Claremont and Buckswood and Clarement seem to have a better rating.

Our DD is a 12 year old (minor learning difficulties) and we are considering boarding in either Claremont and Buckwoods. We will appreciate comments and feedback on both schools.

Looking for Year 8 (Form 2) next year (2018/19).

Best regards

Claremont is a lovely school with an excellent learning support department.

Sorry, pressed ‘post’ too soon.

I know Claremont well and highly recommend having a look round. Buckswood has a less good reputation in the local area but I know of parents whose children are happy there.

Thank you for the information. Claremont reads much better as well.

My husband will be visiting both schools and we will decide.

If you're looking at boarding then I would check to see how many other boarders there are? For instance if your child is to be a full boarder, it would be a lonely experience at weekends if most boarders go home?

I also would not rely of Ofsted or ISI reports. Look at the schools & see for yourself. I know Buckswood used to be known as an international school so had more full boarders. Claremont senior school is fairly new as it used to be a prep school. It appears to have a better reputation, but I'll be honest I didn't like either school & chose another which is also in Sussex. That said, lots choose Buckswood or Claremont & it's all to do with what school is right for your child & your budget.

Thank you AbitOTT, very valuable comments. He will indeed be a full-time boarder and given his personality (dynamic and outgoing), it will be a pity to be lonely during weekends. We will check it out thoroughly. Which school did you decide on? Do they have boarding? Does it have international students?

We love buckswood. My dc have been right through the school and said it didn't feel like school in the traditional sense. Too much fun to be had! Highly recommend it for day or boarding. Believe me your child will not be bored.