Y7 Cotham v BCCS for drama?

[sempiternelle]

Hi there, I'm new to Bristol, and still hesitating about Y7 choice for my youngest next year. One of his brothers is at BCCS and really loving it, but youngest is less academic (though I hate labelling my children!). He is however very comfortable with drama, dance, photography, which Cotham specialises in (and we're in that catchment area).
Just wondering if I should favour his personal inclinations or being with his brother. Any experience with those subjects at GCSE level? As he is very much the "baby" in our family, I'm worried he'll be lost in such a huge school. He's also hugely looking forward to being with his big brother.
Thanks for any advice and experience.

What is bccs?

Sorry! Bristol Cathedral Choir School.

I would go with cathedral. Can't see any point in not. Cathedral takes all ability levels.

Thanks so much, that's how I was leaning. I figure he can always specialise in 6th Form. Do you have experience at either/both?

I had exactly this dilemma with DD who is good at dance (and less academic). However we decided that since BCCS is a good school and her older brother is doing well there it would be better for her to get a good education and pursue her dancing outside of school (I'm sure she would have gotten a good education at Cotham too, but better the devil you know). Also BCCS is very hard to get in to so if you can get a sibling place I would opt for that. If things dont work out (although I'm sure they will, BCCS is a great school) your youngest could always swap to Cotham at a later date. The chances of swapping from Cotham to BCCS are less likely (although not unheard of).