Moving from independent to state

[Supernovastar]

Has anyone had any experience on moving their child from independent school back to state, in year 5 specifically.

It's more of a financial decision as I don't think we can keep up with costs especially as they go towards secondary school.

We've found a lovely small school, but just wondering if in the long run it's the wrong decision?

To be honest, if you can't afford independent then it is the right decision.

I agree with the previous post. I wish you and ypur child all the best.

My friends did it when their dd was 9. They found state schooling very different to private (topic based, less formal, more group working, greater variety of abilities within the class) and were frankly quite shocked when they found that their dd wasnt actually streets ahead of the other bright kids. But it worked very well, she settled well and moved on to grammar school at 11.

Like any school change, visitt the school with your child, look at the website, prepare them it eill be different.

I wouldn't even make a thing of it being private/state just a different school.

I moved mine in yr3. No regrets. Less pressure, so confidence has soared and i think enjoys schoolmore. Also surrounded by kids from all walks of life (much better) rather than pushy privileged families who dont know how lucky they are and "stick to their own".

@Porcupineintherough

My friends did it when their dd was 9. They found state schooling very different to private (topic based, less formal, more group working, greater variety of abilities within the class) and were frankly quite shocked when they found that their dd wasnt actually streets ahead of the other bright kids. But it worked very well, she settled well and moved on to grammar school at 11.

I think this is often the case. You don’t necessarily get what you pay for. Many state schools offer a fantastic education and provide plenty of challenge for children of all abilities.

Thank you so much for your replies. I don't think my children are actually any further ahead academically than other children in state schools.

The other school I visited is lovely and the head master is fab.
I'm just more worried from about upheaval point of view but I do feel it is the right decision.

I also think that now is a good time to move, them by the time you get to secondary transition they will already have friends

We moved our children from private schools into state. One passed the 11 plus but decided to go to a large main stream secondary that has a grammar stream. They absoloutely love it there .
We look back and not sure if the money we spent on private education was worth it now.
There's alot of areas where state has trumped the private.

Thank you @robin20009
All your replies have been so positive.

We have informed school today that they will be leaving, such mixed emotions but absolutely know it's the right decision.

@Supernovastar I've just seen your thread. How did your children get on with the love? We are looking into a similar change.