Independent schools in Tunbridge Wells?

[GingerBeer1234]

We're thinking about moving to TW and are interested in independent schools for our DS, aged 4. I've looked at various school websites, but could anyone here steer me a bit? We'll obviously go to open days and visit the ones we like but just for now, can anyone give me a heads up on the main differences between say: Rose Hill, Mead, Holmewood House? In terms of culture, academic results, whether it's a friendly/pushy/hard to get into etc etc? For what it's worth, I'd rather DS went somewhere small-ish, friendly with decent outside space. Warm, approachable teachers rather than ones driven purely by the academic side of things.

Thanks very much for any insight.

Sorry to be so late to this thread, but I've got two children at Rose Hill and think it's an amazing school. They get great results for the 11+ but equally are happy to support children through the Common Entrance. It's a very happy school and the children have opportunities to do after school clubs every day. My two are currently doing badminton, netball, running club and hockey. Last term my daughter was in her element at roller disco!

I'd wholeheartedly recommend the school and don't have any reservations. As far as the Mead and HH go, I don't have direct experience other than the local jungle drum of comments (Mead - very gentle, but not great facilities, e.g. no playing fields at the school and HH - bit elitist and more traditionally 'Prep School' iykwim.)

Just wondering if all those who were so keen on fosse bank are still happy there?! Looking at schools in the area and can find very little real feedback on fosse.

@bowlofcereal - I don't know much about fosse bank, it looked really nice but too far for my dc. I met someone who sent their child there but took them out as she said that it looked lovely but when they started they saw the 'cracks' (she didn't elaborate!) Far more concerning is the poster @daisychain123 who has detailed the class numbers. It is extremely hard to come back from once they fall that low, I know schools that have closed down with more pupils than this and you don't know until they give you a terms notice! (one school was still taking not only reception admissions but in year admissions as well)

Second what was said about Beechwood sacred heart. I would also be extremely wary of Holmewood house - it has all the bells and whistles but I know a few children that have left due to terrible bullying.