JAGS vs Alleyn's Sixth form?

[whiteaglex]

Hello, My daughter recently got offers from both JAGS and Alleyn's for 16+. Apart from the obvious co-ed vs single-sex, we couldn't find many major differences in the atmosphere, teachers, courses, opportunities etc. and she feels the same attraction to both. She is very academic and is looking to do medicine but is looking more for a wider sixth form experience.

Any experiences with either of the schools would be greatly appreciated !

Also - is it possible to accept offers from both schools while we decide? I have to hand in the acceptance form tomorrow!

TIA

You can accept both, but look at how much it will cost you when you relinquish one. Are you prepared to pay that much to hedge for a bit longer?

Are there significant differences in the grades required to confirm entry?

Alleyns has an enduring reputation for being "socially sophisticated" which is code for a large proportion of the pupils being very active on the party scene. Obviously not all, and both schools are big enough for a pupil to find their own "tribe"

We live just behind Alleyns & opposite Jags - have done for 30 years. I'll just say that locally Alleyn's is known as quite a druggie school - the kids hang about on the little estate opposite and are pretty open about it.

Thank you both for this ! I appreciate the candour regarding Alleyn's ... It’s definitely something we will need to factor in.

I didn't realise the deposit wouldn't be returned if we back out - whoops! The grade requirements are the same.

I've heard glowing references from JAGS from former pupils. It seems more academic and well-rounded - is there any truth in this?

Don't just check the deposit - check when you need to hand over the first term's fees, and when you have to give notice to quit to avoid being liable to pay anyhow in lieu.

If she does not make the grades, then fees will be returned to you; if she does but you choose not to take up the place, then you may well have to cough up - as standard notice is one term (and that means a term, not a period of weeks equivalent to a term). It should be spelled out for each school in the contract, which you must have if it's so close to deadline date.

We’re also currently holding a few sixth form offers. Suggest you drill down into the exact a level results of the exact a level subjects being taken - eg look at how many students are doing bio and chem and what percentage are getting A* - as that’s what you usually need for medicine. Also look at leavers destinations and numbers going to med school.