“Any parents with recent experience of these schools?”
My daughter has been offered a place at Sarah Bonnell School, which was our second choice. The school I initially preferred — Harris Science Academy East London — was actually my third choice. I put it lower on the form at the time because I wasn’t completely sure, but after submitting the application and looking into it more, I’ve realised it seems like a really strong school academically.
All of my daughter’s friends are going to Sarah Bonnell and she is very keen to go there. She feels happy and comfortable knowing she’ll be with people she already knows.
I’m torn because I’m wondering whether the Science Academy might offer stronger academic opportunities, but she wouldn’t know anyone there and would be starting completely from scratch socially.
I’d really appreciate hearing from any parents with children at either school. How have your children found it — both academically and socially? If you were in my position, would you prioritise friends and familiarity, or the school you feel may be stronger on paper and also a great school?
Feeling very conflicted and would value some honest experiences and advice