Sevenoaks prep schools

[Firefly1234]

We are considering a move to the Sevenoaks area with our children, daughter aged 8 (year 3) and son aged 4 (reception) since we have family in the area. The long term aim would be grammar school for both. Can anyone advise on prep schools in the Sevenoaks area (girls and coed) that are academically strong and that send a good proportion to grammar. If anyone also has insights on Tonbridge grammar and Weald that would also be helpful (particularly in terms of culture and ethos) Thank you!

I used to live in that area:

Tonbridge Grammar - higher 11+ score needed. Considered super selective and the top grammar for girls. Atmosphere doesn’t suit all - bit stricter and pushier but default of who it takes.
Weald - lower 11+ score needed but still impressive school and equally as good for a bright girl. Atmosphere different but not worse, and it’s over two sites (Sevenoaks and Tonbridge and I believe you choose your preference). Went through a bad Ofsted recently (I have friends with DDs there) which I think was down to old Head being a nightmare, but it’s still way oversubscribed and current Head standing in is pulling it back up.

As for preps in Sevenoaks, there’s Sevenoaks Prep (co Ed) which I know little about. St Michaels in Otford (also co Ed) which wins on facilities and on the whole has a good rep particularly with the new Head, however does have a bit of a “fur coat and no knickers” reputation alongside it. I don’t personally have experience of this, though have acquaintances who have ripped the school t9 shreds, though I know more people who love it!
Russell House is smaller (also co Ed) and I know nothing else about it.
Walthemstow Hall (Wally Hall) is girls only and has a sound reputation. Friends DD was very happy there and went to the senior school as they felt grammar was a bit out of reach for her ability, so a good back up.

Combe Bank?

If you want 11+ I wouldn't recommend Sevenoaks Prep or St Michael's. They don't really prepare for 11+ as they're hoping the kids will stay on until Year 8.

Russell House has great 11+ results (co-Ed ) as does Granville (girls). Granville is supposed to be a bit of a hot house though. Wally Hall juniors (girls) might be worth a look too.

Combe Bank is now Radnor House.

If you're looking in the Sevenoaks area it might be worth considering the Tonbridge schools, especially if you end up in the southern end of town or in one of the outlying villages. I have a friend whose children go to Hilden Grange (North Tonbridge) and they are really happy with the school. It is co-ed and has a very good track record of children going on to grammars.

I think if you want academic rigour (your focus on 11+ and grammar) and are ok with single sex only 1 choice - Granville. Top academics and history of feeding the grammars and other top schools like Sevenoaks. Believe they were the top feeder school to Sevenoaks this year. Plus many students get multiple scholarships.

For the boys it’s more a struggle - New Beacon is under new Head. BUT by the time you arrive should be through the disruptive period. However they don’t have a strong reputation for sending pupils through the 11+. Though i believe it has improved over time. The danger is they will want to push you into Tonbridge - they also had a safeguarding issue highlighted in the recent inspection. I would avoid St Michael’s - I understand the new head situation but has been a poorly run organisation for many years. Amazing views and facilities BUT…..