Dulwich College vs St Dunstan's - which is best for slightly sensitive but extrovert boy?

[gullivert]

I really love both DC and St'Ds and my son has interviewed at both. My one worry is that while he is an extrovert, he is also somewhat sensitive. Can anyone with sons who have gone through yr 7 at either tell me what that first year is like? If you have boys who are on the sensitive side, did they enjoy it, and are they thriving? Thanks in advance!

What do you mean by extrovert and sensitive? Extrovert DC, sensitive St Duntans.

I know it sounds contradictory, but that's his mix! He's extrovert in that he is open, talks to anyone, is interested in people, not afraid to stand up and make a speech etc. BUT he is also thoughtful and sensitive, eg he will express empathy with others readily, will talk through worries eg big things like climate change to if he's too old for soft toys etc etc. I wonder if that rules out DC or if DC can accommodate that type.

DC all the way (assuming no commuting issues, which I think are important). It's big enough for everyone to find their tribe and just far stronger academically.

Thanks @BeBraveLittlePenguin that's reassuring. As it happens DC is the better commute in a number of ways. He'll be travelling under his own steam but I know there will inevitably be some to-ing and fro-ing by me, so it's definitely a factor.

maybe wait and see what actual offers you get before you worry about this?

DC definitely hold a large wait list and also turn some kids down after interview and would assume St D's is similar?

I can only speak for DC, but our experience for my year 9 son is that it’s great at the pastoral care and it’s very mixed in terms of types of kids who are there - your son’s tribe will be found.

Thank you @LillyD really good to hear.

My son sounds like yours OP. I think DC offers so much more. We have a DD at SDC. It’s fine but not amazing.

Thanks @Itsweather

Thanks everyone for your insights. We got offers from SDC and DC and have accepted DC. Fingers crossed...

Hooray! Really hope it works out. Where will he be commuting from?
You know if he ends up
disliking it, you may well be able to move him but it’s easier doing it this way round.

@Itsweather yes, exactly. Commute isn't far: coming from Lambeth side of Denmark Hill

Oh lucky you - it’s nearly walkable!