Reddiford or West Lodge

[BlueInf]

I am not familiar with the UK education system, since I moved here as an adult.

I heard from people living in Pinner that Reddiford is a very good school, we were planning to apply for West Lodge and put Pinner Wood as a secondary choice.

We never heard of Reddiford until now and upon checking it seems that they are a preparatory school for which, you do not apply through normal school admission.

• Is a preparatory school a privately run school which is focusing on exams for a secondary school?

• Is there a difference of quality in the education between a prep school and a good 'outstanding' school?

• Reddiford seems to take children at 3 year old , since I probably missed that deadline, it is probably unlikely I can get my child in a subsequent year, is that correct?

• Surprisingly Reddiford seems to be much cheaper than the pre-school nurseries at 3 year old, is there a reason for that?

Not sure how do people choose prep school vs 'outstanding' school, it seems to not be a straightforward choice?

Hey,
we have the same questions. Have you been successful in finding the answers to any of them?

A prep school is a privately run school (fee-paying school). They don’t outwardly say they focus on exams for secondary, but do focus on the broader elements (academic, confidence, sport, music) to improve chances to get into an independent secondary school. Quality of education difference between independent and state (no fees) is subjective. The biggest difference is that you have the pay for Reddiford and not for West Lodge and Reddiford will select which children get in based on ability. It does not mean you have missed your chance to get in at later years at Reddiford - speak to the school. Nursery fees at prep school may be cheaper but when you add in extras (uniform, after school/breakfast club) it’s not that different. Personally I think independent schools keep their nursery age fees low to attract children that will continue at the school in subsequent years when fees will go up.. There are some amazing nurseries in the area.You are right, even if you have the money to pay it’s not a straightforward choice. Go see the schools and speak to staff to get a feel for the school’s vibe. Then work out which one will suit your child and family most.

Hi Can you give me feedback on Reddiford in Pinner if your kid attended the same. I am applying DS for 3+ early year ( wish to go habes in secondary)

Hello all - I’m trying to choose between oak lee Montessori and blue butterfly Montessori in Pinner for my DS. Does anyone have any recent experiences of these two nurseries in Pinner? Huge thanks x

Hello I’m trying to choose between oak lee Montessori and blue butterfly Montessori in Pinner for my DS. Does anyone have any recent experiences of these two nurseries they can share? Huge thanks

You should book an open day and visit Reddiford to get a feel for it if you haven't already. They do take kids at 4+ but have an assessment.

They don't have school lunches and also no playground within the school (not sure if that's changed it now). 7 years ago my child went to Reddiford nursery. But we didn't continue to reception as it didn't feel like the right place for us. In terms of 11+ prep for secondary I know kids in Reddiford who have used tutors too but I don't have personal experience or how much the school does. PM me if you have questions.