Denstone college or Repton, anyone?

[mjitte]

Denstone seems expensive… was expecting it to be cheaper. I know Repton has a bit of a name for being pricey. Anyone know anything about these schools please? DD is 9. She won’t be boarding.

Thinking of Denstone too but like you, feel the price is high and nearly the cost of repton!

Depending where you are, have you looked at Lichfield Cathedral School which isn't too far away? The facilities aren't up there with Denstone or Repton of course, but we're finding it a really good environment for our son (yr 5). It depends what you think your daughter needs to thrive, of course. But to us, LCS feels very personal, caring and nurturing, very 'whole child', he's stretched where he's very able and pastoral support has been exceptional. And it's slightly less expensive than the others.

Repton is a much more 'friendly' atmosphere than Denstone. For a girl in particular. Denstone hasn't really changed from its 'boys only' school days so I would be wary. Both are rural schools and very good academics, but purely for the social side I would definitely go for Repton.

As a contrasting view my DD had a great experience at Denstone. She’s very bright but has ADHD. She was very well supported and the school also accommodated her doing a non-school sport on Wednesday afternoons. By the time they hit GCSEs the kids all go to the same parties regardless of school so not sure I understand the comment about the social side being better at Repton.

Highly recommend Repton - have 2 DC there and they are absolutely thriving. We really couldn’t be happier as they are so very happy. Repton truly does believe in the whole child, they are pushed both in academics and extra-curricular to stretch and achieve more from themselves whilst also being very nurturing. The pastoral care is second to none, the staff are always on hand to help them whether it be balancing academics with sport fixtures or wanting to try something new and how to fit that in. Having tutors within the house really helps when they are doing their prep. Super friendly school that is super ambitious for both boys and girls. Best decision we made.

Considering boarding at repton for daughter. She is mad on sport and playing county at a few sports a few years ahead of age including hockey. To send at 13 would be a massive push financially. Just wondering is it unrealistic to get into the repton hockey team if you come in the sixth form. I appreciate they have a few England internationals but is it sewn up or a meritocratic selection and are all the first squad / team on the edge of national squads?

Boarded myself and remember our sports teams were a popularity contest more then ability sometimes (I didn't deserve my place...)

Also if you aren't in the firsts is the support and fun still there across the other teams? I can see us sending daughter there for sport, not making the firsts and then spending a lot on not much!

Sorry a little niche but the only reason for repton would literally be the sport. Academically it doesn't look different to local independent day school results wise.

Also if I do get a comment from repton parents what are your thoughts on entry at 14? Kids assimilate ok..?

I have private messaged you