St Ambrose Prep vs APS

[Gingabriel]

Our family is relocating to Altrincham or Hale next January. We are Catholic and thus tend to opt for St Ambrose Prep. However, I was told that APS, which is more academic, will be more suitable whereas St Ambrose Prep do not prepare students to sit in the 11+ entrance exam. I am not sure if it is right to send my son to St Ambrose as we would like him to go to a local grammar. Do boys of St Ambrose Prep go to St Ambrose College automatically or just more easily? Or, the prep and the college have no connection at all.

Btw, which prep school is easier to get in?

Hi @Gingabriel
I don't know if you have decided on APS or Ambrose Prep but thought I'd offer my advice/experience.
My 2 children who currently attend St Ambrose Prep and 1 who now attends St Ambrose College, so I can offer some insight. St Ambrose Prep definitely do prepare the boys thoroughly, from an early age, for the local entrance exams. They have a high percentage pass rate for Ambrose College and Altrincham Grammar for Boys. The prep do not automatically gain entry to the College but are very much prepared for the exam. Most boys choose to go to St Ambrose College as they want to continue the catholic education. The staff and parents at Ambrose Prep are lovely and always go above and beyond.
I don't know much about APS but maybe a visit to both would be worth your while.
Hope that helps!

Thanks Baker 0112 for your advice. I decided to take the school offer from St Ambrose Prep. I'm sure my son will start his new school life in St Ambrose in January. It's nice to hear that the families in St Ambrose value the Catholic education, which is also something I value most too.