Epsom vs Dulwich vs Hampton for 13+

[Parent1980]

Which one would you recommend out of the those three?

Huge geographical range there - where do you live?

I’m guessing you’d move closer to the school you choose. I’d go for Hampton

wandsworth so almost equidistant from all three 😀

What’s your wish list - academic, sport, pastoral, prestige, results, hours, girls, transport etc etc

I would add though that you have to bear in mind when going to a school not near where you live, there will be kids who live an equal distance in the opposite direction from the school. How prepared are you to do late night party pick ups from, for example Guildford if at Epsom, Kent if at Dulwich. This will be your reality for several years and it’s a valid thing to take into account for the benefit of the whole family. A nearer school that’s good enough is better than the perfect school that causes a lot of hassle in my view

And Saturday school, flexi boarding etc?
How easy is for you to reach the schools for meetings, plays, weekend sports, concerts etc etc. Not just about the pupils.

thanks all

I live in Wandsworth my kids go to Epsom. They get the school bus every morning and have many London based friends at school. Most of their mates live in the Wimbledon area but yes there are some from Kingswood and around Epsom but there’s a great balance because of the number of schools routes they have opened up. Epsom is a good all round school and my kids love it. I have one child is very sporty and one that is more academic - both are well taken care of at Epsom. It’s definitely a school that’s proud of all its pupils and looks to find the best in them - whatever that might be. The new Headmaster is really making a difference and has gone down well with the parents.

the days are long 7.20 am bus pick up and then home by 6.30pm plus Saturday school- which are lessons in the morning and sport in the afternoon if picked for a team . However they get use to it and actually love being with their friends ! The House system is excellent and the House masters and matrons look out for their pupils pastorally.

All the schools you have listed are good good schools . It’s just going to be about the right fit for you and your family.

I live in Wandsworth and have a son at Hampton. We did consider Dulwich and Epsom College too but we've been really happy we chose Hampton. The other two are also good schools, of course. For us, Epsom, with its long hours and Saturday school was too much, especially commuting from Wandsworth. Dulwich would probably have been fine too and a quicker commute for us. However, I got a better impression of Hampton. The school promotes a supportive attitude towards others, bullying isn't tolerated at all and there is a diverse range of sports and clubs on offer. My son isn't sporty and you don't need to be sporty to have a good experience at the school although there are plenty who enjoy and are good a one sport or another. His friendship group either meet up in London or Kingston if they plan an outing.

What does the commuter from Wandsworth to Hampton end up averaging? Especially on the way back. Thank you

Back about 5.20/5.30 for us. We have the 'back up' of the train too but use the coach.

Both DSs were at DC and had a really good time there. I found it to be a very inclusive and diverse school. Many of one son’s friends were in Wandsworth, and while we are nearer Balham, the commute was fine. Going to matches at Hampton and Epsom was a bit painful, lovely as both schools are. I’m glad that wasn’t a regular occurrence.