Which prep schools should we consider in SW London

[MrsNuckyThompson]

We've got DS down for a few good pre-preps and hope he'll get a choice.

We've realised, though, that maybe we need to give more thought to where we want him to go at 7+. We're in Wimbledon and think we assumed he'd go to Kings because it is local and has such a good reputation for academics. . But after a recent visit to Squirrels (feeder pre-prep) I'm not so sure. Not sure if it will be as well rounded as I would like althou we are keen on good academics first and foremost.

We've looked at a few schools further out but where else would be a natural place to consider? Colet Court? Rokeby?

I think a key question is what type of school you want your DS to go for secondary. A lot of the independent schools in SW London have their main entry point at 11, a lot of the preps are focussed on that and only go up to 11. If you want the "traditional" boys route, you will need to look at a pre-prep school that prepares for 7+ (and a lot of those which go up to 11 do not prepare for the 7+) or a prep that goes through to prepare for CE/13+. The schools are very clear about it and it is a perfectly sensible question to ask.

Its all a bit hard to get your head round because you can usually find an entry route into the prep part of some of the traditional schools at 11, but be warned that the number of places are very low. EG a couple of years ago when we were looking KCS took about 15 at 11, whereas Hampton took about 120. Big difference!

If I have one piece of advice it is really, really do not project at a young age where you think your child will end up. It will all become clearer later what the best path is so I would look for a prep that kept your options very wide and your children have an enjoyable and stimulating time in the meantime.