State or independent sixth form

[Purpleice]

Has anyone else had to make this decision? We are finding it difficult due to Covid and not being able to visit places. Dd is a perfectionist who works very hard and at the moment she feels she might be better off in state sixth form with a bit less pressure and no uniform! She can get very stressed (currently at an independent school - she moved there from her state school in year 9).

I would think it would depend on the individual schools rather than a state/indy split. Not all private 6th forms are hot houses. Similarly, a state grammar could be highly pressurised.

Have a look at what the entrance requirements are. - that should give an indication of how selective they are. Academic schools can be really supportive as well though.

Have you any particular schools in mind?

Also look at the reasons for moving her in Y9, are these likely to become an issue again in Y12? And would the school or college be a better setting.

Tbh I also have a perfectionist DD who was at non selective schools throughout and got fantastic exam results (A/A*s) because of her perfectionist work ethic, and access to great schools.
If the school is getting top results then the high ability DC will get those results without needing to be in a very pressured environment.

You don't have to decide now surely?
Apply for the the places that might suit and choose later
When do you need to give notice to your current school?

To be honest, by the time your daughter gets to sixth form, her performance will be more based on her own motivation and how strict she is with herself with regards to studying than on anything else.

The 'best' sixth forms only get the best results because they only accept the brightest kids in the first place.

If she doesn't deal well with pressure, but is a good worker under her own steam, a state sixth form could be a better choice.

Many thanks for your thoughts. The independent school gets great results, but yes, takes only the high achievers and I do wonder about the pastoral care. The state school is averagely good -a handful with the very highest grades, one or two Oxford or Cambridge successes every year. She’s leaning in the direction of the state school at the moment.
Her independent school want her to stay. But she’s not so keen.

I agree that it will depend more on the school than whether it’s state or independent. Our school offers flexi boarders and many sixth formers chose to do this. Adds an extra dimension and independence to their lives but the school are exceptionally good at teaching the children that balance is what’s important. They have huge amounts of fun.

I personally loved my state sixth form college. Everyone just felt a bit more grown up. It wasn’t less stressful though, just a really different but good vibe that worked for me.