We're currently looking at potential schools to move my Y8 daughter and honestly feeling quite overwhelmed.
Firstly, we think we're going to go down the private route, but this certainly isn't an easy decision, and we'll have to make significant sacrifices. We're not impressed with our local school head and whilst our daughter is bright, (strong in Maths and Sciences) she does need help with drive and has real challenges with self confidence. We think (hope) private school could help her in those areas specifically.
We've been to both open days, and based on the days themselves, I thought Silcoates was the winner. My DH is concerned though about the reputation.... friends have said it's not very academic, but I can't help but feel that's based on performance from years ago. The head has been there for three years, and GCSE results have improved significantly in recent years (although I don't know the subject mix). DH is also concerned that with Silcoates being smaller, it won't expose our daughter to the "real world" as she'll be too "cushioned". I'm hoping , however it would help give her an advantage of more tailored, individual care. The setting of the school was lovely too. I can't put my finger on it, but it just felt nice, and I think a happy child learns and grows in confidence more naturally.
Wakefield Girls does win on grade results, and I think they do have that more "academic" reputation, which could suit my daughter's Maths/Science strengths better. That said, they sound like they're going through a lot of change with a new head coming and joining to some extent with the boys school (although lessons will still be separate in seniors).
I feel like I need a crystal ball, and it's such a responsibility. Both schools are businesses at the end of day, so they're going to put a lot of effort into their open days.
Really keen to hear from anyone who has recent experience of either school, especially if you have moved from a state school to either one (or moved from one to the other).