Private secondary schools near Beaconsfield with strong pastoral care

[Gardening00]

I’d really appreciate some recommendations and experiences of private secondary schools for both girls and boys around the Beaconsfield area.

My daughter is currently at Pipers Corner, but we looking to move her. Academically she’s very strong, but emotionally it doesn’t feel like the right fit for her.

We also have a son to think about for secondary shortly , so looking at schools that might suit both children long term.
Schools I’m starting to look at are Claires Court, Berkhamsted and Shiplake.

The biggest thing for us now is pastoral care and the overall atmosphere. We’re looking for a genuinely kind, grounded, happy school where issues are dealt with properly and children feel supported. My daughter is very academic, while my son is sporty, but ultimately we’d prioritise warmth, good values and a balanced environment over pure results.

Any experiences — good or bad — would be hugely appreciated. Thank you.

I don't have direct experience but of the three I understand that the Berkhamsted schools are the most academically strong. I know someone who withdrew their child from an excellent grammar school to send their child to Berkhamsted instead and they really thrived there. Claires Court I believe has very good pastoral care. I looked at Shiplake for DS a few years ago. I was keen but DH wasn't but I think he was swayed by its reputation from quite some time back (old rowing rivalry too!) rather than the school it has evolved into in more recent times. I was very impressed by the then new Headmaster. I know two ex Shiplake pupils and they are both well- rounded, confident and lovely people. I don't know what the current boy/ girl split is at the moment as I think when we looked they were just starting to go co-ed across the board rather than just 6th form.

I’ve PM’d.

@Cathydidntcomehome thank you so much. I really appreciate the feedback.