Cambridgeshire/Suffolk border independent primaries

[Antsinmypantsneedtodance]

Currently looking at schools for a 2025 reception start. Having explored our local non independent options we're also exploring independent. We're in the fortunate position, due to a change in circumstances to have this option.

Have looked at Brookes. Which was ok but it felt quite alternarive and their single montessori approach I wasnt quite sold on.

Since then we've looked at Fairstead House which we liked and Culford which we were also very impressed by.

We're nearer Fairstead geographically. Culford is about a further 10 minutes drive, which is mildly offputting. It felt also to be more academic? Which although is important, to me happiness is key.

Obviously hard to say at 3/4 but DD is averagely bright for her age, but is quite a free spirit. Loves the outdoors and creative pursuits.

Anyone have experiences or thoughts on any of these? Or any others it might be worth considering.

Barnardiston Hall would be well worth a visit. Wonderful outdoor opportunities for all their pupils. Their Forest School is amazing. As your little girl loves being outdoors, it would be ideal.

Sadly too far really. 45 minutes for us in the wrong direction. Culfords a push (25 -30 minutes in opposite direction to work). But has the plus of bus later on.

What a pity. It’s a very special school and it is the type of environment you would love for your daughter. Their sporting results are brilliant and regularly beat all the local Prep schools in winter and summer sports. Excellent academic results too. Outstanding support for children with dyslexia and other educational needs.

Pretty good idea of where you are based and I went to Fairstead as a child as did my Dad. My Mum was the chair of the governors when I was a teen.
It's a pretty tricky area as sparse population means apart from Cambridge all the private schools are very spread out.
At least until year 4 most people go to their closest independent. There used to be a shuffle at year4.7 and then also year 9.
I moved at year 4 to boarding just really because of the logistics my parents didn't want me in the car for hours a day.
My Mum is guardian to a girl in year 11 at Culfiord, there were a few pastoral issues at the start, but they are resolved. Sport is excellent and my Mum's guardee has come from Germany and says she loves the fact that her teachers actually want her to do well. But I appreciate this is the senior school.