Berkhamsted - gentle not hot-house schools primaries or preps?

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Asking this for relatives whose DC has had a tough time. We need a school where the DC will be loved and in a gentle environment and confidence will grow. Ideally not very big classes. Any suggestions, state or private please?

Hetherton

Yes, it's part of the Collegiate group but it's a lovely nurturing school

Westbrook Hay. Absolutely fabulous school with 25 acres to play in (and they very much encourage the tree climbing, den building sort of play).

The new head has really turned things around - the old one had been there for years and things had got very stale - so if you look for reviews then make sure they are post the new head arriving! The Muddy Stilettos and Good Schools Guide reviews are very accurate.

Class sizes are small and the children very happy. Children go onto a wide range of next schools - state, grammar, day and boarding - there’s no set route.

Heatherton is a lovely school BUT some year groups are tiny. Seven girls in a year doesn’t give much scope for friendships. I think people are being put off by it being part of the Berkhamsted group.

If you have girls then Pipers Corner also has strong pastoral but is that much further.

York House and Beechwood Park might also be worth a look. Berkhamsted School is excellent but rather pushy and children are regularly asked to leave if they are not making the grade.

Definitely don't want pushy. And I agree that very tiny schools can be socially limiting. Will pass on this info - thanks very much.

Heatherton is lovely. The size allows it to be nurturing and personal. Most classes are around the 20 mark. I think it would suit someone who has had a tough time.

Also recommended Heatherton, it has a real family, caring atmosphere. Only one year group is currently small (and isn't as low as 7) and that year group is gaining pupils in September.

If DC is female then DEFINITELY look at Abbots Hill too. Renowned for pastoral care. Very gentle but gets excellent results. Has the added benefit of being an all through school so she can stay to 16.

York House is a wonderful school. Not pushy with great pastoral care.