Independent schools in north Manchester

[CandyWong]

Hi all, I am not a local therefore would like to get some suggestions from you about independent schools in north Manchester. I have two sons aged 5 (born in Sept 2016) and 3 (born in August 2018) so they will start year 1 and reception respectively in Sept 2022.

Previously we got an offer from Moor Allerton Prep School in Didsbury. We want good preparation of entrance exams/ 11+, aiming to get into either private secondary or Trafford grammar schools.

However, my husband just got an job offer in a company in Bury. So now we are thinking to move to the North like Worsley, Monton, Whitefield, to reduce transport time.

Do you all know of any good prep school in the North? I am thinking Branwood Preparatory School - is it good? any other good choices?

Thanks in advance!

Wonder if any of you have any suggestions. Your input would be much appreciated :)

Clearly very late to this thread but my daughter has been at Branwood Prep for a year now so happy to give you a review.

Hi @joey020 we are considering branwood. I’d be interested to know your thoughts. Did you view any of the other local prep schools?

@CandyWong where did you decide to send your child to in the end?

I can’t fault Branwood. We looked at Bridgwater which was also impressive but we chose Branwood as it’s smaller but not too small(just primary level) and my daughter knew a friend from our area already there. It’s a very diverse school which is what we wanted. Happy to answer any specific questions you may have.

@joey020 thank you for replying so quickly. Out of interest what made you chose private education instead of a state school? I’m trying to weigh up the pros and cons of both when looking at local schools. Any tips on what I should be considering? Did your daughter start from KG1?

We went private for a reason that probably does not affect or mean much to the majority of people. Our child got into an outstanding local primary, however on the first day we realised that she was only one of two non-white children in a class of 30. We didn't want her feeling "different" and the challenges we're aware that brings. Branwood and all of the other private schools locally are very diverse so provided a good alternative. We didn't bother with KG1, she went to a local primary for "nursery school" but didn't get in that school for Reception.

@joey020 thanks that’s interesting.

Has the school updated parents about their plan re: school fees and VAT?

Lastly, this might not necessarily seem important but I was wondering what the social aspect of the school is like for both the children and the parents. Is there much of a community or do parents make the effort to get to know each other. I’m mindful that many of the children might not necessarily be local to Monton.

I can confirm that they're passing on the full vat.

I'm not that involved with the parents etc but my partner is. The kids are very close. The full class get birthday invites etc as it's a small class.