Putney High 4+ - what should I do?

[safetyzone]

So my DD has got a place at PHS.

Personally I really like the school having visited it and think the facilities are great, and the teachers and heads all look very impressive. The students I have met have all been really lovely (not just the ones sent to greet us but the ones we walked pass in the playground). I visited our local state primaries, one of them is outstanding rated, and whilst I liked the head, I haven't got that wow feeling (could be the £££ of facilities and staging talking!). And I can relate more to the feel of a private school here than I can a state school based on my own life experience (grew up overseas, so not in the UK for either system).

My family however, don't think I should put the children into private schools at all, until 11+, thinking that it's not worth spending that much money at this level. We might be able to get into the outstanding local primary, although not 100% sure at this point. If going private it will be a bit of a stretch for us financially, but doable. On the other hand though, I feel terrible for turning down this opportunity just because that's really what I would have wanted if money was no object, and I feel it's a good match for DD and it might relieve some stress for the 11+ stage.

Has anyone gone through similar (or parents of PHS girls), that can offer me their thoughts? I know ultimately it's our decision, I just don't know how to gauge the educational aspects of entering private at this stage as opposed to going state and then private at a later stage.

[Roseotto]

Some I know in the area tutor at 11+ from the better state primaries and get great results for private secondary.
However you will get more from a school like PHS at primary (as you would expect to given the cost). Smaller class sizes, faster pace, better facilities - they are excellent schools. And the majority of girls/friends she makes will still be local.
I haven't regretted making a similar choice for my DD for a second.
Personally I absolutely wouldn't make a choice of secondary for my daughter depending on where her friends are - that will be about the best school for her strengths and personality - IMO children make friends anywhere at any age, but each to their own.