Hall Grove School opinions please

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Hello, we are looking for a school for our DS and are looking at Hall Grove. I’ve heard mixed things about the old head but wondered what the current opinions of the school and new head are. Are the children happy/ is it a happy school? Is it very exams/testing focused? Is it an accepting/nurturing/kind community? Feedback/ experience would be really helpful!

Any hall grove mums out there??

It's a lovely school in a beautiful setting, with loads going on and fabulous staff. Not hot house-y at all. Very happy kids. I only have experience of the Barn and the pre-prep but know lots of mums with older ones who've loved every minute.

As a matter of interest m, how do you know you're both talking about the same school?

Is there another Hall Grove?!

Thank you @Legoninjago1 for the feedback! I’m looking for my son to go into reception in the barn so that’s really helpful that you’re so positive about it. Can I ask whether you think the pre-prep/reception/year 1 teachers are good? I was a bit surprised about the amount of carpet time vs free play they have which seemed to result in lots of children sitting on the floor bored and not concentrating. Also thought there was a real mix of staff, some of whom seemed very warm and full of praise and encouragement towards the pupils and some who seemed quite harsh. So difficult to say from just a few visits to the school so would be really interested to hear an insider’s perspective! Thanks x

Really?! No I don't recognize the description of too much carpet time vs free play and neither of mine ever said school was boring! PM me if you like.

thank you ☺️ x

I am also looking at Hall Grove. Do you know what time you can drop children off and pick up?
Do you have to pay extra for clubs?

My DS is at HG but much further up the school, he joined beginning of Y5 from state, it is a wonderful school. The new Head and his wife have injected a wonderful energy and vigour. The setting is beautiful and this is used to give the children an education which incorporates the outdoors from the farm, walled garden and stables. The children get to see new born lambs and grow vegetables, there are new hives (safely tucked away and seen on supervised visits). As children move through the school they are able to go on residential trips to the school’s property Battisborough House on the South Devon Coast where they have the time of their lives. The teaching staff are excellent and find ways to excite children in their learning. My DS has been pushed in the right way and the improvement has been phenomenal, particularly in his confidence and self motivation. The school community is strong and welcoming. I can hand on heart tell you that this school is a slice of heaven and if it extended to senior I would keep my DS there until 18. HG is a special place.

Hi, do you know anything about how HG manage children with SEN such as ADHD? Some schools say they are SEN orientated but only pay lip service whereas others are quite about it but actually very supportive. Any thoughts would be appreciated.

@Legoninjago1 do you have kids both in Hall grove and Papplewick. I have seen you comments for Papplewick and just seen this and wondering if you moved or have kids in both.

Hi. Mine did Reception and Y1 at HG. Lovely school. They're at Papplewick now.