Salesian College Farnborough?

[Oneminutespeace1]

DS is in Yr 5 at local state primary. We are quite a distance from Salesian College Farnborough. 45 min drive each way. Haven’t been to the open event yet but on paper we really like the look of this school. DS is academically able but needs a nudge and is also very sporty. I phoned the school, who were very helpful answering lots of questions, but it was mentioned that a lot of their intake is from local state primary schools and a lot of the boys will already have friends there. Does anyone have any experience with this school who can advise on whether it would be easy to integrate and make friends - especially not being able to arrange out of school social events very easily as we live so far away? Any other comments/advice appreciated.

My children go to an inde 20 minutes away and I find social things for them challenging as friends can equally be another 20 mins plus away in the opposite direction. That said, we are all in the same boat. It would be challenging I think to be one of the only ones further out, especially if the others already know each other locally.

Which direction from there are you in? There are lots of decent independents around the area.

It's a Catholic grammar isn't it, based on Don Bosco.

Yes, a Catholic grammar.

Hmmm… yes, that’s what I feared. We’re in the Basingstoke/Andover area - don’t like to be too specific! We are looking at state options too, inc for example Henry Beaufort. Would consider other independents. We looked at prep then secondary at year 9 type route, but I‘m not sure that’s really for us. I like the idea of a grammar, with others who are eager to learn, but not overly wealthy. Just a better fit for our family, I suppose. And also the fees are much more affordable.

My God son goes here and lives about 30 minutes away. He gets the train and the school buddied him with other boys when he first started and they've remained travelling pals which is nice.

His parents are very pleased with the school, it strikes the right balance of academically stretching the boys whilst also being nurturing. Importantly, he's very happy too and is thriving grades wise.

Thank you so much for taking the time to reply. That all sounds incredibly positive. It seems like the school takes quite an active role in ensuring that the boys make friends. There must have been quite a few then going from the same area as your godson. Could I possibly be cheeky and PM you to ask roughly where that is?

Yes

My son started this year and is doing well. He was the only one from his school so I understand where you’re coming from. The school had children from over 45 feeder schools. Also a coach service that is really efficient and caters for abt 6/8 nearby areas. My son has made friends from as far Farnham and Godalming area.

Ah, thank you for taking the time to reply. So glad your son is getting on well there. We missed the autumn open day so will be going to the spring one instead. On paper it looks like exactly what we are looking for. But location will probably be an issue. Would you mind at all if I were to PM you around locations, as I prefer not to be too specific on here? Thanks again 😊

Yes that’s fine.