Are ABSOLUTELY EVERY child's parents at Garden House School (Chelsea) very rich?

[Xashax007]

Are there any ordinary working parents?

An insight from a parent at GH would be appreciated.

Very interesting post and I find all comments very valuable. I have just visited the school (for my son but I have a younger daughter too). I absolutely loved it and it makes a lot of sense for the path we envision for our son (Sussex House and then boarding school). But we keep an open mind that the reality might differ from the vision. Both my husband and I work in the City?we have a nice home?but I would not consider myself super rich. If GH does attract a “super rich” crowd?I do not have a problem with that. What matters is the quality of the education (academic and non-academic) that my children will receive. Statistically? I do not understand how other peoples wealth is at all relevant to my choice or to my childrens education.

sfairholme you don't think your child being surrounded by super-rich children might lead to a somewhat skewed view of the world? Not saying this should necessarily bother you, but can you not see why it might give at least some parents pause for thought. FWIW, a couple who both worked in the City would be viewed as super-rich in most people's eyes, even if you're still saving for a private jet.

My ds, at Garden House and loving it, casually informed us the other morning as he ate breakfast that he wished he could live at school. Slightly taken aback, we asked why. 'Because I like the teachers and my friends'. Then he paused, and added 'and because I learn a lot at school. Home is nice. But I don't learn as much'. He then added, nonchalant, 'when I'm older I'd like to live at school'.
'But then we wouldn't see you as much' I explained.
'That's ok, I could visit you sometimes' he concluded as he finished his shreddies.
Could it be that Garden House makes learning too much fun?!!

I wondered if anybody could give me an insight into Garden House versus Queens Gate for reception class 2016? We are deliberating over the two. Thank you.

Doesn't their website say "possibly the most exclusive school in London"!? So much for discouraging displays of wealth. I think that statement makes it very clear exactly what type of parent they wish to recruit!

Ooh, sorry, ZOMBIE THREAD! My mistake.

Private schools of any sort generally reflect those living in the area with sufficient resources to be able to afford school fees. As a former teacher at the school it is no different from many private schools in the area. Fees often reflect operating costs in an area like Chelsea, which you can expect would be lower in Birmingham or Bristol. Parents at Garden House have a range of backgrounds and professions, like any other parents at any school. Regarding second hand uniform, there is quite a healthy trade in second hand uniform at the school. Children grow out of clothing very quickly and it is often sold on and larger items purchased. Many parents, whether rich or poor are very conscious of waste and do their best to recycle uniform whenever they can. When I worked at the school, parents were pleasant and helpful, many getting involved in parent's association events for both the children's enrichment and social activities for other parents.

Zombie thread but I'm surprised at someone saying the uniform is hideous. Looks lovely to me. The uniforms of Rowan Prep in Cobham or perhaps St Philomena's in Carshalton I'm less keen on.