How much would you pay to avoid a not-great school run?

[Elvesandthepoomaker]

I need your insights on our current dilemma. DD1 will be starting school in September 2017. We are lucky to have a choice of two great schools - the outstanding Catholic school (20 minutes away) and the prep school (across the road) where she currently attends nursery.

The Catholic school would involve us buying a second car so DH could do the morning school run, and we would then have to look at getting an after-school childminder for the days we don't finish early. It gets fantastic results and I meet many of the parents through Sunday School but I haven't yet been on the Open Day. The prep is great, I know many of the parents and teachers and it would give DD an edge in the 11+.

While we could afford to send both DDs, however, it would mean sacrifices - we'd end up with a smaller house, less flash holidays. I don't really have strong principles with regard to faith schools or private schools so that's not a factor. I'm just wondering whether the long-term sacrifices are worth it for avoiding the hassle of daily school runs which are not ideal but not horrendous.

20 minute drive or walk? It's a big difference. If it's a 20 minute walk then that's fine. Drive I wouldn't go for, local school trumps non-local unless there's a stark difference between the two. And you can always tutor in years 5 and 6 if you feel the need for the 11+.

Also - it doesn't sound like you've actually looked at the Catholic school? Just because some where's Ofsted outstanding doesn't mean you'll like it or it's right for your child. We looked at two outstanding schools, one really was head and shoulders above the others, the other I really didn't like at all.

Sorry, one last thought re tutoring, I know parents who've paid for tutors despite the fact that their DC are at fee-paying schools. I think I'd save myself a bob or two and do state+tutor.

Well if the catholic school is a decent school I'd take that and save the money. My dc are at prep, its a lovely school but I don't think its any better than a decent state school. Were I live the options are limited though. You will find its hard work and a serious commitment to keep paying unless you earn mega bucks.

Anyone paying for tutors and private school has chosen the wrong school.

Remember private fees usually go up as you move up the school as well as due to inflation. Do the kids at the prep school come from a wide geographic area which may mean you are driving +++ for play dates parties etc. Holidays will probibly be longer which may incur more child care costs. Are your jobs very secure. We looked at private as it turned out I am glad we haven't had the stress of finding school fees.
Once you have embarked on private how easy will it be to move to Comp for secondary if not Grammar material. Remember many other at a prep will go private for secondary.
Sorry more questions than answers