Twickers Mums - anyone with DCs at Trafalgar or ArchD?

[Elllie]

Just wondering if you have any opinions on these schools, and how your DCs have found them. I lived in Twickenham for some time, but the new development of Trafalgar was only just about finished. I know both had good reputations, but have also heard a few not so good stories (bullying at one of the schools, inadequate action etc) from one of two friends. Would love to hear your opinions/ experience/ if you recommend them.

Hi, Just changed my name or I would be too recognisable!! I have had 2 children go through archdeacon . 1 still there I now at secondary. Mostly i like the school. It is sometimes not proactive enough and I feel they can be too dependant on the fact that a lot of parents will buy a private tutor if they child starts to fall behind. This is a feature of all the schools in Twickenham. There is lots of tutoring going on at St James and St Marys. Trafalgar too. Reception is very play based and this now also runs into year1 so year 2 can be a bit of a shock to some. My older son had special needs and I dont think they were always as proactive as they should be. We had to keep on there backs and watch them. I dont think this is untypical. Another thing to consider is secondary. Mad I know. At the moment Archdeacon is linked to Orleans park and Trafalgars link is moving to Whitton school which will become Twickenham academy in Sept. By the time you get there it may have improved alot, but at the moment there is alot on concern with trafalgar parents. Saying all this Archdeacon is a nice school. There is a good school community. Kids are encouraged to be confident. All participate in assemblies for the whole school from reception etc. Would we pick again. Probably! Shout if you want to know more

Hi mumsnet mums!

I know this is completely off topic!

I've just started a website where parents in Twickenham and the surounding areas can find local babysitters. Its free to use!

www.twickenhambabysitters.co.uk

Hi, a bit late in the year for replies but here goes.. i have DC at Archdeacon and have been involved in the school for the past 9 years (step kids went there too) it has changed a lot since then and im not sure if for the better. there is a lot of competition now and the pressure the children experience can be overwhelming. Proactive they are not and i know lots if parents who have gone down the tutor route and the school sort of expect you to do this and even suggest a couple of tutors for you! Parents not big on getting their hands dirty for the PTA activities, considering it relies on parent participation to raise funds. Trafalger much more a 'down to earth' school with a huge PTA gathering and always raise huge amounts of cash while having fun. If i had my time again i would def chose Trafalger

All Richmond Borough parents need to be aware that the council is looking to make some significant changes to Secondary Schools over the coming years, which could impact existing schools, so check out the thread: "New Secondaries for Richmond Borough" and join the debate. The council (say they) will listen to parents' views, but we can only engage in the process if we know what's going on.