Gracefield Prep - Downend

[BambinoBoo]

We will start to look at schools this year for DS. We are in fishponds so fall within catchment for Christchurch and staple hill primary - which I hear are both good schools, however our closest school, gracefield is fee paying. I would like to take a look and not rule it out immediately. Does anyone have any experience of it. From what I have seen so far, the only thing that may put me off is that it's on quite small premises with limited outside area for PE etc.
Would be great to hear your thoughts.

Many Thanks.

Hi I have name changed as this combined with other posted may out me to friends that know me.
I know a few parents that have sent or do send the child/children there and are happy with it.

Staple Hill is a school on the up and local people agree the furthest it went out this year was less than half a mile for non sibling places. Getting into Christchurch can also not be guaranteed as that often doesn't go much beyond Cassel rd or Thicket Ave.
What ever schools you deicide to put on the form you should also look and put down some Bristol school so you avoid being left without a school place. A school that is in special measures will get extra funding and extra help and will improve. Schools that are doing really well now could have staffing changes and go down hill very quickly.

Best thing you can do is look at all the local schools and see what you think and what will suit your child best. We were able to eliminate school easily that way. I didn't like Christchurch but I loved Staple Hill but that was quite a few years ago. I still love staple Hill but have not been round the other school for years

No personal knowledge - only from unhappy parents who have moved their children from Gracefields. As you say, small premises, no outdoor space and in the past has been rather too hot on the religious front for the liking of those parents I know. Of course this may have changed over time and may not be the case now.

Thanks name changer. Without outing myself too, we are very close to cassell road. What we plan to do is go look at the school. If we like it then we will put DS on the waiting list, but we still plan to look at state schools. I have heard good things too about staple hill, but we are looking at all options at the moment. I thought that moving more towards south glos would secure a place somewhere decent but seems like its just as much of a lottery.

jo164 thank you too. I'm not too worried abou the religious front as long as it isn't rammed down their throat and other religions are acknowledged, but I think the lack of outdoor space might be a deal breaker so we'll see. Best go check it out I guess.