We have just started considering options for DC starting school, and my parents have offered to contribute towards school fees so we are now in a position to afford this. We have no previous experience of the private school system.
Our closest schools are Finborough and Old Buckenham Hall. I've started doing a bit of research and now understand that Finborough is an all-through school and very sporty with a few boarders but mainly day pupils, whereas Old Buckenham Hall is a traditional prep with good results in entrance tests to senior schools, good music as well as sport, and has boarders from age 7 upwards. Both have "excellent in all areas" recent Isi reports.
Does anyone have experience of these schools?
My main questions are: is it likely to upset DC being a day pupil in a school where a significant number are boarders?
I don't want DC staying at same school until 18 - is an all-through school a disadvantage for a child likely to be taking entrance tests for senior schools?
Longer school days and weekend school commitments at a boarding school - is there enough time for other hobbies and family activities outside of school or is everything expected to be done at school?
Thanks in advance for your help