Cheltenham Independent Schools

[Raisingwild]

Does anyone have any knowledge of the independent schools in and around Cheltenham? I'm new to the area so don't know the local reputations.

It's probably more likely St Edwards and Rendcombe College?

I love Cheltenham College but it's probably more than we can afford and my DS (3.5) is still in nappies.

He's quite bright, possibly on the spectrum and loves the outdoors. Nurturing the whole child is very important to me alongside the academics.

If you do a search in the archives here, I seem to remember reading something about a bullying problem in the secondary part of St Edwards. That may have been a few years ago though.

Can I ask why you're not considering state schools?There are some excellent state primary schools in Cheltenham and in my experience of working in both state and private/independent schools, the provision for children with autism has always been better in state schools. Obviously, schools vary, but I think you would be wise to check out all the schools available.

The short answer to that is I am worried the state system will enhance his weaknesses and damage his strengths.

State school isn't completely off the table, I am going to look at another one next week. 30 kids in a class is chaos though and is sure to give him sensory overload. I went to an independent school though so my expectations are completely different to what the state system can provide. Yes academics are important (I wouldn't want them in a failing school) but I loathe the one size fits all policy found in the state system. Independent Schools (not all) provide a family environment where children are individuals and they are nurtured. Not once did the head teacher who showed us around in the state primary acknowledge or name any of the children. I was also a little surprised when the Yr 1 class were comparing a circle to an oval, something my son is already starting to do.

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