What is your opinion of the Vineyard School, Richmond?

[KateyT]

Hello,

I would be hugely grateful if someone could help with information about the Vineyard School in Richmond.

We are expats and recently moved to Richmond Hill. Our DC is currently on the wait list for the Vineyard, as we were late in applying, but we have been advised a place should come up given close proximity (although obviously nothing guaranteed, etc.). I probably shouldn't give any more info about DC, such as year group, as it might be a bit outing!

Some recent comments on Mumsnet about the Vineyard seem quite negative. I would be interested to hear from current or recent parents about their experiences - and any thoughts about the new headteacher?

The leavers' destinations seem quite good in terms of the SW London super-selectives, but is that more determined by external help from parents and/or tutoring?

Any insights, good or bad - or just nuanced - would be really helpful.

Thank you so much!

Can’t imagine this opinion being much help, as am not local to the area. However, had an extremely brilliant experience tutoring a child (SEN) from the school last year, who received offers from all the academic SWLondon schools. Was unlike other state school children I’ve taught in the past, hence my impression was that Richmond schools are comparatively better than institutions in other boroughs. His application of knowledge shared and extrapolating it within the hour was quite phenomenal considering he was visually impaired.
The leavers’ destinations are undoubtedly due to tuition. Would be helpful if you visit the school gates during term at collection time to assess the environment there. This speaks volumes about the school ethos.

Thank you @Collywoods that's useful information and thank you for taking the time to respond. Do you know anything about Marshgate Primary School?

Any other thoughts on The Vineyard (and Marshgate)? Thanks very much!

Hi @Collywoods where can I get your details? I have a son currently at the vineyard with sen we are looking for a tutor

I think the Vineyard HT just left after a relatively short stint, I don't think was popular with parents either. So they are in transition at the moment. I know someone who left Vineyard recently because she was not happy with the teaching and management. But that is one data point, you need to collect more data points. Marshgate is a more robust school and perhaps more focused academically. If I had to choose today I would go for Marshgate.

Vineyard has a new head arriving after the autumn half term: www.vineyard.richmond.sch.uk/news-and-events/latest-news/appointment-of-a-new-headteacher

Parents seem to be really happy about the appointment.

SATs results: www.vineyard.richmond.sch.uk/our-school/academic-results

Secondary school destinations: www.vineyard.richmond.sch.uk/parents/year-6-secondary-transition

Extra curricular activities:
www.vineyard.richmond.sch.uk/attachments/download.asp?file=280&type=pdf

Good luck!

Hi Rob,

I’ve currently got a SEN child at The Vineyard and I’m interested to know of your experience, if possible. Please PM @Rob3

Very sorry @Rob3, have only just seen your message!
Will PM details if still required. Thanks.