Highgate versus Dulwich prep

[SheHasArrived]

DS goes to DP and is shortlisted for Highgate 4+. Has anyone selected between these two schools?
DP offers a great prep school and an almost guaranteed entry in Dulwich college (and option to choose others since it’s a prep school). DS likes DP and is settled. We may relocate as we can’t do long commutes and hence since relocation is an option, we are considering Highgate. I get a sense that it’s a better school based on what I hear (I could be wrong). Any guidance ?
one point on Highgate is that we wouldn’t bother him with 11+ as it’s a through school while in DP he may just end up giving 11+ and I am sure that will take his time away from few experiences / trips and be stressful

Highgate offers aren’t out until Jan?

It’s just a shortlist - not an offer

Don't know Dulwich Prep, but Highgate is a brilliant school.

You are pretty much on opposite sides of London with these choices though. You've said you would relocate - if you can afford private school from 4 then this probably isn't an issue, but bear in mind that North London house prices are a bit insane (and I don't just mean Highgate/Hampstead) compared to South London...

Go for whichever one isn't a 2 hour journey from your house 😂

The Times Parent Power 2026 has Highgate at 21 and Dulwich College at 52, so it's a league above academically. I think Highgate would be preferable for a few other reasons too - no 11+ pressure, co-ed and for me I like the area. If there are siblings they could both go to the same school (although would have to pass assessment).

But even short list candidates aren’t told until then? They haven’t done the second round yet. Sorry just confused

You are right. I assume it’s a shortlist as he got called for round two

Well done to him for getting this far! It’s definitely not a “shortlist” per se but it’s hard to get to second round so he’s done well. Both schools are v far apart both in distance and relatively far apart academically so hard to compare - I would choose a location and go from there. Best of luck, I hope he gets a confirmed spot!