GHS - thoughts?

[fitch568]

Hi there, Anyone with DDs currently at GHS juniors? I wondered if it's as academic as the secondary appears to be - do all the girls go through? Not sure how my little one is yet as she's only 2 but have started looking at prep schools and keen for an all through I think to save the stress. All insights really would help!

I can’t offer any insight as I’m in a similar position to you and am also looking at GHS as an option for 4+ when the time is right. I wonder if reception places are still competitive, or are they likely to have far fewer applicants.

I understand that GHS juniors was recognised in recent years as being the best prep in the country (indie prep school of the decade – Sunday Times), but I wonder if my DD would get a similar level of education at a prep closer to home. In other words, is GHS juniors worth a 30 mins commute or possible house move?

Hope someone can come along and give their thoughts.

Be careful when it comes to accolades and awards. A lot of these 'awards' the school has to pay to be in, they're also self fullfiling.

There are plenty of schools as good, and a lot that are better, than GHS, the country over. Especially for early years.

Don't get drawn in by the hype. Visit schools that you are interested in and see what you think and how they make you feel. If GHS makes you feel warm and fuzzy and somehwere your DD with be happy - the most important factor! - then sure, go for it.

.... But a long car journey each way, or a house move, for the sake of GHS could be a bit excessive, especially if there are closer options, and especially for Reception - the girls will be pooped!

@Notonyours I’m interested in looking around the school and learning more about it because of its academic and sporting record, as well as the good things I have heard about the pastoral care the school provides to its pupils. I can’t imagine many people choose a school simply because of the ‘hype’ surrounding it.
I’d be interested to hear about the schools you consider better than GHS in the Surrey area.

How do they spot the super academic at such a young age? What should we be doing to put her in good stead and what if she can't keep up? I loved the school when visited but it almost seemed 'too perfect' - appreciate any current parents / locals views pls!

@fitch568 Which academic year would your DD start if she got a place? We've not yet visited as open mornings are currently restricted to 2016 entry. I'm hoping that my DD will learn many of the skills required when she joins nursery (which is attached to our local prep).