DD in Year 6 at a state primary. She is very creative, good at English but struggles with Maths and often gets 45% in school NFER test papers and other assessments. She has Maths tutoring, but she rushes, guesses and goes to pieces with problem solving etc. She struggles a bit with reading (avoids doing it). She loves Art, DT, Music and likes drama, dance and gymnastics. She has a bubbly, fun personality and is fairly good at making friends but sometimes can annoy other kids with her exuberance. She pushes herself to try new things, but can panic and feel nervy and under confident at times. Our finances have improved hugely in the last few years, and we have realised we could now afford private school, probably for other DC when the time comes. We don't fit into the typical private school mould round here...we are not hugely aspirational in lifestyle choices, don't go on expensive holidays. I am hopeful that there are all types in private school though (perhaps naive!!). We just want DD to feel secure and be happy. We have 2 main options for secondary, well 3 but the last I have ruled out:
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Local state comprehensive. Good OFSTED but GCSE results show that just over 50% of pupils achieve level 5 and above in English& Maths GCSE. Just under 50% get Attainment 8 score. Great drama and dance departments. Have heard that if your child doesn't get into top/middle sets for English and Maths, it's very hard to do well with behaviour and distractions being a big issue. DD knows quite a few kids going here and is excited by it. Can go on to excellent local sixth form college.
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Local private school. This is the only private school we are considering as we like the ethos. Creative subjects are given equal emphasis to more academic subjects. DD has been offered a place. Up and coming school, becoming more academic and expanding. Good pastoral care and not too high pressure. There are other more competitive schools in the area with stronger results. Class sizes of 20. Much smaller school than number 1. Pretty good results, similar or slightly better than school number 3. Can stay for 6th form or go to excellent state sixth form college. Around 60% from private schools and 40% from state schools. School is getting more popular and more difficult to get in. Pupils travel from further afield than school number 1. DD will know a few going here, but not strong connections. DD is quite keen on going. We know we might not fit in but DD is very sociable.
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State Catholic school with excellent reputation. 45 min journey, with complicated changes. Excellent results. 72% grade 5 or above in Maths and English, 60% Attainment 8 score. Possibly slightly narrower scope to be creative. Daily mass. Some concern over pastoral care/bullying. Few kids from our local area will go here. Think DD will feel burntout by all the travelling. Just not really 'us'.
All schools are co-ed.
I'd be very grateful if anyone can share their wisdom/experience on which schools might suit our situation. Thanks for reading.