Salesian College

[Vicky2011]

Opening myself to be flamed for hypocrisy here I know but I wondered if anyone had experience of any of the Salesian Colleges - we're thinking of Farnborough but there are quite a few others - and how realistic it is to get in if you are not Catholic. Clearly if this was a state school I know that we would stand no chance but wondered if it may be different with a private, selective, Catholic School.

Thanks all

My experience is very ancient: one of my brothers went there over 20 years ago, at which time it was a terrible place.

I'm pretty sure that it has improved enormously since then, so my ancient experience shouldn't put you off. The Salesian ethos (kind, inclusive, helpful) is a good one. The school has always taken a number of non Catholics, with the proviso that they must be willing to go along with the religious ethos of the school, which is not terribly hardcore. I would see no reason why you should not be accepted.

Thanks Pointissima, that's good to know - well the bit about accepting non Catholics is good, less good about it being terrible! I think you're probably right that it has improved a lot but I'll certainly make sure I get some recent refs on the school. I think there must have been quite a few changes locally - I believe that Gordon's at West End used to be pretty dodge but now has a miniscule catchment as it has improved so much, though I shouldn't assume the same has happened to Salesian!

I know the Chertsey one now only takes Catholics (at least for the past few years) - it is meant to be good although quite strict.