Hi there!
THis is my first post on MN so let's hope I get it right...
My DD is at Priory, which although of Catholic roots, I would say is more christian. The children do morning and evening non-denominational prayers, but we have children from all different religions. We've had a wonderful experience at Priory. I like it because it's small enough to maintain it's warmth and sense of community. Academically it's not the most pushy of the Edgbaston schools, but it is certainly very rigorous. Class sizes are small enough that what your child learns is quite individualised to suit what the parent wants/the child's ability.
We've had a couple of boys move over from West House last yr because parents weren't happy with it...also another friend moved hers from there to Hallfield.
We looked at Blue Coats, which was our fave, but there were no places at the time. I do have a friend with one at Blue Coats and they're very happy with it. I think of all the schools it's the most rounded and ie. quite pushy academically but with a nice focus on all other activities.
I visited Hallfield, and hated it. But I do have firends with children there who are getting on very well. I personally felt it was too academically focused in a "cram for exams" sort of way and didn't feel it was the way for my DD. I'm big on teaching them how to think rather than teaching them things.
hth. Let me know if you want any further info.
Sorry for the LOOOOOOONG post, I don't know how to make short ones.
Vanessa