London school help (and picking between UK + IB system)

[thelondonmama]

Hi all, first time poster here. I'm currently researching schools for my daughter when she starts reception in 2027 and as a UK citizen (but not a Brit) I'm having a hard time making sense of the whole system. I've read through other threads on this subject though was hoping to get some personalised advice if possible!

In short I'm looking for:

• Co-ed private schools that are ideally IB/US system but could be British system too for the right school (I wanted to avoid the crazy 7/11+ exams). I have the state schools that I'll be applying to already picked, so want to also have a list of private schools as backups. In a dream world, I'd love to send her to American School London because of the facilities and results but the tuition is just way too expensive.

• Location wise, we're based in West Hampstead but willing to drive (within reason, ie 30 minutes)

• School wise I want something that is academically rigorous but still student-led, where there is also focus on sports, creativity, individuality etc. Basically I want her to be pushed but without academics being the sole purpose. A school where they're taught to be critical thinkers, not just test-taking robots

• Schools I've already been told to look at: Notting Hill Prep, Chepstow House, King Alfred, Trevor Roberts, Maple Walk, Southbank + TASIS + ACS (sadly out of budget - something like TASIS looks incredible), Dwight School - would appreciate any thoughts on these.

Really appreciate any and all advice!

ACS Hillingdon is an incredible school.

Hi,

Watching with interest as looking at ACS Cobham for my child. IB/AP route confuses me, but I am told that all UK universities take kids that sit these tests without a problem.

I have heard the IB is hard, particularly due to its broad nature. Can anyone explain a bit more about IB/AP and how it works?

Also any views on ACS schools, particularly Cobham. Just to add I loved what I saw when i looked round. More hands on learning, more tech, just vastly more modern in terms of their curriculum and approach to learning. You then see our independent schools and think wow, we are really behind ….

Hi Brander. I am an ACS Cobham mum.Its an incredible school. Il DM you?

Agreed it looks fantastic - but sadly out of budget. Hence my dilemma, trying to find something that is in this vein but more around the £6-£8k per semester instead of £12k 🙃

I don’t have personal experience but Ivy House in Hampstead seem to always have great reviews from parents and might fit the bill (except for the IB/US bit) or are you looking for a more all through school? I noticed some of the schools on your list are until age 13

Thank you will check it out! Ideally I'd want a school where she can stay till she's done, but might have to compromise

In all honesty, if your budget is limited send your dc to state at first and save up for secondary

Have a look at Manor Lodge in Hertfordshire. I think it would just about be within your 30 minute commute.

We have friends DC at Notting hill prep and King Alfred and they are not high pressure academic preps. Most kids go on to less academic secondaries eg boarding in the countryside. Our DC went to TR. TR is mixed ability entry but tends to attract high performing kids and many/most go on to top academic London day schools. Not much sport focus. A lot of drama, music and art. My DS only spent a year at MW years ago but they seemed nice and tried hard. None of this has anything to do with the IB or US schools.

What about Grimsdell / Belmont / Mill Hill? They are a pre-prep, prep and secondary that are part of the same group and essentially an “all through” school as a result.

https://millhilleducationgroup.com

Fabulous facilities and a good reputation.

I wouldn’t hang your hat on avoiding 7+/11+.

There are a few schools that will take your daughter age 4 and go through to 18. But not many, and especially not the more academic ones. At the more academic schools they will filter out those who aren’t going to be up to the senior school standard.

Also, you have no idea what kind of school will suit your currently 3/4 year old once she is a 10/11 year old and older.

In your shoes, with limited budget I would go to a good state primary at reception to year 3 and save/invest the money you would have spent. Then reconsider at year 2/3, you may find you are happy keeping her in state and topping up with tutoring towards the 11+ entrance exams, or you may want to move to a private prep school. Either way you’ll have saved a chunk to help you afford your preferred senior school, which is far more important tbh. You’ll also have a better idea of your child’s abilities and personality.

Thanks everyone for the advice - very useful. Looking into those options shared as well. We are looking at state schools for that reason to be honest, and have heard from a lot of people that first few years in state then going private are a good way to go. We're considering a move towards good state schools and have been considering Queens Park for Salisbury school, Ark Franklin and College Green. Anyone have experiences with those?

I tend to disagree and actually suggest the opposite. Good private school in primary years, solid foundations. Then good state secondary when the children don t need hands holding and are way better prepared for Uni life. In terms of int schools....there are many posts about the good ones and the very bad ones, in London at least. I would steer clear of ISL London, sub par education, curriculum and teachers, astronomic fees and very poor management. ACS Hillingdon seems a much better option as it is very gentle in introducing IB at early ages. All the others are in between and target int families with a vary large difference in education (i.e. years spent moving in different countries so children with either very low level of education or very high. They cater for all, meaning cater for none).

@Heroto4, could I DM you? I'm looking at ACS Cobham for my child and I'd love to ask you some questions if you wouldn't mind.

Yes of course. I sent you a DM.x

Mill Hill or Highgate