Switch from Shelford Primary School to Fawcett School - are we doing the right thing?

[BoffinMum]

Our DS has a statement of SEN. He is currently at Shelford but really not doing very well there, plus we've got genuine concerns about the management of the school generally, as it seems to have been in the papers a lot lately with bad news stories, and the school itself seems extremely disorganised. Basically it seems to have lost its way.

We've read the Ofsted report and so on for the Fawcett, and looked around, and on many levels it just seems to be a much better school with a very professional head. The only bad thing I have heard is that some kids off the local estate nearby have behavioural issues which disrupt learning. That having been said, last year they got all the kids through SATS at the right level, which is more than Shelford does, so they must be doing something right.

I am just wondering, before we sign on the dotted line, whether we are doing the right thing here, and how best to break it to DS and also his current school about the move. Any advice welcome.

so prufrock...are coming to st faiths or going else where?

Perse cazzy. Despite being only borderline on the pre-test, she scraped through the reading and writing and her NVR score was in the top 10% of the intake! Go DD. She's thrilled, not least because there is no problem with her wearing trousers.

I did hear a rumour that both St John's and Kings haven't filled all their places for 7+ next year. Given the heads attitude at St John's I wasn't at all surprised.

OH THATS FAB ..... well done her.

Name changed for this, as also a v local mummy, looking to move dts from a South Cambs primary to either Perse or St John's at 7+. (Don't think I know either of you though.)

Concerned about your comments (prufrock) about St John's' head - we've looked around, and really liked the school, but have yet to meet the head. Would you mind outlining - as much as you can - what the attitude is, so I can be more aware when we do get to meet him, as I would hate to make the wrong decision for my dcs. Also, what made you pick Perse Prep over the others? Academics, or something else?

Thanks so much.

Prufrock, thanks very much for the info - very helpful to have another view. Hope your daughter has a wonderful time at the Perse.

Ooh - we met the head of St John's and had a very different experience! I thought he was very nice. Seemed genuine and very straight forward about finances/education etc etc. He didn't flannel us and he didn't seem dismissive at all. Although we didn't get to meet him straight away - only once there was a place for DS1 available. The children seem to love him. The boarders call him by his first name iirc.

We have also met the deputy chap who seemed terribly young (which made me feel really rather old - felt like calling him 'sonny'!!) but he seemed harmless enough.

I've only met the head of the Perse Pelican, not the older parts, and she seems very good too. And I loved the head at St Faith's. He seemed lovely.

My experience with the head of St John's couldn't have been more different. I think he is one of the most inspiring educationalists I have ever met. I do agree though that his manner with parents isn't as polished as it might be.

We were won over to St John's by the extraordinary atmosphere of the place. Such warmth and enthusiasm and an amazing relationship between teachers and pupils.

DS1 starting at St John's in September. See you there reach4sky! Will try to guess who you are... (you don't happen to live anywhere near me do you? Or know anyone who can collect a very good (!) little boy on Tuesdays and Fridays?!

I never realized that starting school was so complicated!

Not sure where you are. Will look out for you too - I will be frazzled/nervous looking London refugee......