Manchester Grammer vs Altrincham Grammer for Boys

[altmum]

My son goes to APS at the moment. I understand that some of the boys in his year group are planning to transfer to MGS junior section as it has guaranteed admission to its grammer. We were planning on aiming for my DS to go to AGS but now don't know if it is worth moving to MGS so we have a back up. Any thoughts/advice?

They are quite different schools. Which do you prefer? (GrammAr, btw)

I had preferred AGS over MGS as a secondary school - (reasons being it is closer and non-feeing paying) but am prepared to be swayed. DS is an average student but quite shy, not really interested in sport/music. Can I ask in which ways are they (AGS vs MGS) different?

I think you have to get a feel for them. Did you go to the AGSB open evening last week? I disliked MGS and DS didn't sit the exam, though he is very bright and I'm sure he would have got in. He passed Alty Boys (with 408) but we sent him elsewhere. Have you looked at Sale as another option? Open evening this week, lots of kids go up on the tram.

Thanks for the advice. I haven't been round the the schools yet (DS has a few years to go still) but just wanted to plan ahead and get others valuable opinion. Will try and visit at the next round of open days. Congrats btw on your DS exam results.

Ah you're years away. My main advice then would be not to let yourself be panicked by the exodus to MGS at this stage, motivated by the hope of avoiding entrance exams. If your DS is bright enough he will be prepared by APS for the exams and he he will pass. If he isn't, then MGS will be the wrong place for him and you will have done him no service by starting him off there. You would no doubt be advised by MGS to move him out if that is the case. There has been a panic for the last few years, since MGS began extending its junior section, as boys approach years 3and 4. At its worst at APS and Bowdon Church School I understand! Keep your son's options open. You don't know what will be the right senior school for him yet, if he's only little.

Thats sensible advice - thank you . You are right about the panic at APS but I will hold my ground for a little while longer. Many thanks