Cambridge Schools

[IndecisiveMama]

We are considering moving back to the UK after 17 years overseas. Purely because of the children's education. We don't fancy boarding them so have started the entrance procedure for the Perse, The Leys and St Mary's. We have 2 boys and 1 girl. (13, 11, 11). This is a heck of a huge decision and I would appreciate any feedback on the three schools - and our chances of getting the kids in! The 13 yo is clever (that's why we have to come back!) but the twins are ... well they are top set but not in the top 1-2% shall we say. How hard is it to get into Perse/ Leys/ St Mary's? So many decisions rest on their education that I don't know where to begin.

Just want to add that St Mary's has a reputation for being both caring and academic.

The entrance tests for the independents are usually in January, I don't know they can be done remotely.

Regarding schools, I'm glad others have shared different experiences of a place we found wanting. We had a family connection to the school and found it quite perplexing that a school that had taught one of our extended family who had a serious disability was unable to be a satisfactory environment for a different generation coming through.

I hope it is OK to add a question to this. Perse places for Y7 seem to be 4 applicants to 1 place. Does anyone know what the pressure for places for Stephan Perse and also St Mary's is?

I would guess Stephen Perse will be keen for boys in the senior school if they're the right ages (current year 7 or younger) as they need to build up the mixed/diamond side of the school. So you might maximise chances for the 11 year old boy there (and if the girl went too you'd get sibling discount I think?). The 13 year old boy will be too old for SPF.

Just a note for anyone who doesn't understand the Essex school system and might see this thread - although part of Essex has grammars, it's the bit over Chelmsford/Colchester/Southend way. Newport Grammar hasn't been a traditional (11+ entry) for years and changed it's name a couple of years ago to Joyce Franklin Academy.

We are moving to CB from London within the next few months, and I am finding difficult to find a primary school for my kids. Could anyone give me their opinion about Histon & Impington Junior School and Histon & Impington Infant School? I have a child going into Y4 next year and another one starting Y1. Any comment about what is like to live in the area will be greatly appreciated. Thank you so so much. x

Sorry, wrong place to place this. Apologies.

Dear indecisive mama

I have been very interested to read these posts as we are considering a very similar move with our three children aged 13, 11 and 9. We are currently looking at state schools in Cambridge with a view to moving from Suffolk this summer. Out of interest how did you get on and what did you decide in the end? Best wishes
R

Comberton village college is a fabulous secondary school and if you're going private the Perse