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Disappointment our third child can’t join her siblings at the same school

277 replies

sopae · 30/01/2026 22:20

We have two kids at a selective school in London. It is very competitive to get in to. Both kids sat the 4+ and have been there since reception and are doing really well. We have just found out that our third has not been accepted for reception next year. I am so sad that she can’t join her siblings.

I don’t blame the school, obviously they have to draw a line and we chose to put them all in for 4+. I also know it is a ridiculous age to try and assess. She won’t even be 4 until the summer and is developmentally a completely normal 3 year old. She can try again at 7+. But I am still heartbroken that she will have at least three years separate to the others, and her siblings are so disappointed too.

Anyone else have this experience and can help me put some perspective on it. I know there are bigger issues but right now I am feeling so sad about it.

OP posts:
Are your children’s vaccines up to date?
EastCoastMum1 · 10/02/2026 15:13

christmassytimeagain · 10/02/2026 15:08

No they won’t they’ll fill the spaces from the waiting list they won’t care

Depends on the school but most private schools right now are struggling and most private schools really hate losing multi-child families.

Don't know the school though so

christmassytimeagain · 10/02/2026 15:37

EastCoastMum1 · 10/02/2026 15:13

Depends on the school but most private schools right now are struggling and most private schools really hate losing multi-child families.

Don't know the school though so

From what she said it sounds like one of the London ones which aren’t struggling in those ones they’re very happy to reject siblings as they can easily fill the place with other kids

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