Help - schools for relocating Y4 in London

[goldensophie]

Hi mums, we are relocating to London this August and it seems my now Y3 boy is already too late to apply for strong academic schools like St Paul and Highgate. Is it no use to contact the schools anyway? How about Latymer and Chepstow? Is it hard to get in at Y4 for those without prior waitlisting? He has been doing well academically (not tutored though) so our first choice would be the first group, but we also like "well rounded" preps where he can do learning as well as extracurriculars in gentle environment. Before I've come to know this whole unique world of British school I had preferences for co-ed and great facilities, but after a bit of searching it seems like I'm in no position to be picky 😬 What would be the best way for my son? Fyi, we are an international family coming from a british internationl school in an European country. Thanks for any inputs in advance, much appreciated!

Do you know where you’ll be living? Or will that depend on the school? I would guess there are quite a few prep schools in London with places for Y4 next year if you’re not set on a particular location, and they should know now (or soon) about availability next autumn since families have to give a term’s notice if they’re leaving. But they won’t be academically selective ones like Highgate or St Paul’s with long waiting lists.

Thanks Jackal for the input! Yes, we realize that we have to decide on school first and follow with housing accordingly. Can you shed some lights on which preps I should be contacting? Isn't he already late to sit for 8+ entry point?

Most schools accept applications for occasional places. Not guaranteed though so you’ll want a back up as well.

@goldensophie , have you subscribed to the good schools guide? Most prep schools are closed this week but if you fire off a mass of emails to the Registrars, by the end of next week you should have a short list with details of the assessment process for each Prep that has space for Sept 24 Year 4.

I think you'd be too late for some you mention but there are lots of really academic boys / coed preps that you could try. In your position I'd probably try Tower House, Shrewsbury House, St Phillips, Sussex House, Thomas’s (there are a few), Eaton House (there are several!), the Hall, maybe Wetherby.

Or if you want a more country feel and don't mind him taking a school bus / driving him you could look at somewhere like Caldicott. They have a lot of London families now.

Thank you Irony, I will list up all schools possible! :)

Thank you Tennissquare for the information, I will subscribe today and see all possible schools. It sounds great!

Thanks Lego, I've never heard of those schools and I will do research right away. Good to have more options, thank you!