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Original poster

George Watson College

8 replies

Pikeymay · 09/02/2013 19:50

Does anyone know what the school hours are for George Watson College for P1-P7? Also are you allowed into the school with a car to drop off child in P1? Many thanks.

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Chrysanthemum5 · 10/02/2013 16:17

School starts at 8.45am although you can drop children off after 8.15am (but not for the first few months of P1). P1 finishes 2.50pm, P2 is 2.55, P3 is 3pm. P4-7 is 3.15pm. There are car parks at the school but they get pretty busy.

meep · 10/02/2013 16:24

There's also a breakfast club starting at 7.45 and an after school club until 5.45.

Original poster
Pikeymay · 11/02/2013 12:35

Thank you very much. Do your children go to George Watson? If so can you give me any feedback, pros and cons please? My DD starts school in August and I just can not decide between George Watson or George Heriot. I was decided on GWC due to the one campus facilities, swimming pool, French and swimming in P3, but I am seduced by the ambience, locality and academic record of Heriots. My DD is quite sensitive and I am eager for her to have friends, mix and be happy. HELP!! I have to make decision this week...... Xx

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Chrysanthemum5 · 11/02/2013 20:12

Yes they do, and we're happy with the school. Obviously I can't really say about GH as they don't go there. If you look on the Edinburgh local site there are lots of threads about schools.

Pros of GW - it is a very friendly school (despite its huge size)
Every person working there seems to know all the children, and the children seem to feel very cared for.
It is keen on an all round education - it offers opportunities academically, but it also prioritises music, sports, languages etc.
It is very strong in terms of learning support

Cons - it is very big
It may not be a convenient location for you?

Original poster
Pikeymay · 11/02/2013 21:38

Thank you for responding, this is really helpful.

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meep · 12/02/2013 09:02

There are a lot of former pupils who are now parents with children at the school - which is always a good sign. A lot of former pupils are also teaching staff!

Agree that it is a very friendly place. My dd was sensitive, didn't like me leaving her at parties, very clingy etc before she started. She is now this confident, friendly, independent little girl. She loved it immediately and slowly came out of her shell over the first half term - now there is no stopping her! Her teacher is brilliant - just the right mix of being warm and there for a hug, but also commanding respect and putting up with no nonsense!

I know GH is also excellent. The sports travel is what put me off - and also that I worked nearby and would see all the kids hanging out in the chippie/Starbucks at lunchtime. GWC is more campus based and I liked that better.

I reckon you will be happy with either school and tbh I would go with whichever is more convenient for you to drop off and pick up if you can't decide between the two.

I can drop off at 8.15am at GWC (have to park a 5/10 minute walk away to get free parking) and make it to a bus that gets me into town for 9am. GH would have been easier - but I just liked GWC best.....

Chrysanthemum5 · 12/02/2013 11:57

Hi Meep is right go for the one that suits best for location. You'll be picking up for a few years so it makes sense to go for the one that's easiest.

Original poster
Pikeymay · 13/02/2013 08:08

Thank you so much for your help xx

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