which Islington sch...help!

[Noopsy]

Hello all,
Im in a bit of a dilemna..I can't seem to decide btwn Central Foundation boys (reputable, oldish lookng sch, not much modern/high tech like the academies) and Highbry Grove (whch IS a swanky new build bt results r slightly below Central)..
So im torn btwn the two...
The two factors both seem important in their own respect...
Wht do u think?

oops, forgot 2 add tht althgh Highbry gro is lower n grades, it was classified as being outstanding by ofsted..

Noopsy,
I would concentrate firstly on whether you have a realistic chance of being offered a place at these two schools, based on the admission criteria and the distance to the two schools from home.
If they are still both realistic possibilities then I would go and look around both schools. Do not be seduced by the new building at Highbury Grove but get a gut feeling about the school, how do the pupils interact with the staff, behaviour etc.
If they are still both realistic options then I would ask your child which they prefer and put that down as the first preference and the other as second preference.

I used to teach at Highbury Grove. The Head there is absolutely wonderful.

It's come on a lot since its bad old days...