Reddiford, Pinner

[Loveulots]

Dear mums,
Do anyone have opinions on the pros and cons of this school? Have visited them last year, could clearly see that it is a very academic school.. There are a lots of prep schools in the area but personally I don't prefer those that goes until 13 as I would like Ds to sit 11+.. DS is an all rounder and is very sporty so not sure whether reddiford would suit him!! We are planning to move to Northwood / Pinner soon so would like to know your views on the surrounding areas as well..Many Thanks in advance.

any views please??

Hi loveulots-personally I would not recommend this school.
It is very small and classrooms can get very cramped.To be fair the boys are taken to another school to do games once a week. However, the playground is very small and they just don't have enough space to run around or play football properly. Also P.E. is often cancelled if the hall is used for concert or other practice.
Swimming classes are only in years 1 and 2.
I don't know if you are interested in sending your son to a grammar school for secondary. The school doesn't really prepare for grammar, they concentrate more on private schools.
Practically everyone has tution in year 5(some start earlier) and the results reflected are more the result of tutoring or parents working with children to get them to the required standard rather than the teachers.
Teaching is not made enjoyable, just lots of copying from the board, especially in lessons like science.
If you are moving to pinner, I would consider a state school like West lodge and then send your son to a tutor. Grimsdyke and Cannon lane are also good schools.
With regards to private, I have heard good things about Alpha prep., but cannot speak out of personal experience. hth.

Thanks a lot Drami..do you have personal experience with the school? i have heard some good reviews earlier - that is the main reason for me to consider this school. Has the standards gone down recently?

Yes do have personal experience and it is recent. Don't want to out myself so won't give the details.
Standards have gone down, nursery is still good and pre-prep ok. Wouldn't rate the prep at all.
I think the problem is that many parents will not admit to tutoring and hence the school gets more credit than it deserves. They also put a good show on for visitors imho.

Thanks Drami, My Ds is attending assessment day at St Martins, Northwood tomorrow.. do you have any opinions about that school?