Harrodian versus Newton Prep

[Browns103]

Hello, we have some unexpected waitlist movement so are now faced with a choice of Harrodian versus Newton Prep for Year 4.

Heard good tings about both - Harrodian being all-through is a big plus. Although I wonder if Newton Prep might be more international in its student mix? (we are relocating from overseas). We have a child going to Nursery as well (she has a spot at Newton Prep, will have to wait another year until Reception starts for Harrodian)

Any views to help me make a (quick!) decision would be most appreciated!

bump please - would be grateful for any thoughts ! Or more generally on choosing between an all-through (Harrodian) versus prep school (Newton Prep)

Odd choice of schools to be choosing between since they’re not really near each other. I don’t think you want to do a long commute to school with kids that young so I’d look at it from a perspective of where you actually want to live. Battersea (Newton) is quite different to Barnes (Harrodian). I prefer Battersea, the park is great, the power station development is also right there and is amazing. If you need to be in central london or the city for work it’s probably a shorter commute from there. Barnes is beautiful and village-y though, so a lovely place to live if that’s the vibe that will suit your family. All through vs. prep is a tough one- there’s a benefit to avoiding 11+ stress but equally you don’t know what will suit DC as they get older. Swings and roundabouts really. Also if it helps I know people at Newton and they’re happy with it. No experience of Harrodian though since it’s a totally different area.

thank you @InTheRainOnATrain

I need to get into the City for work so Battersea is indeed better connected. Plus from I hear Barnes is quite cut off due to Hammersmith bridge closer. So logistics wise, Newton Prep might be easier

Harrodian is a bit of a marmite school- some love it, others don't. Has a bit of a reputation as being full of celebrities and very wealthy families which is probably true but do know some more 'normal' families there who are happy.

Thank you @wasthesummerof69
Yes I have come across this feedback too. We are a very 'normal' family with two (hard!) working parents and I hope our child wont feel out of place if his cohort comes from very wealthy backgrounds. I do love Harrodian's facilities though - beautiful grounds!

Newton Prep does give the impression of being more mixed and balanced - both by nationality and by parent background