We are considering sending one or both of our twin boys to St Ed's (as day students initially): we liked the environment, the teachers, the open day, the pastoral care, the new head: we have some questions including the suitability for both our DS's, one of whom is academically able in a traditional way (will the school stretch him enough?) and one who learns much more kinaesthetically and has dyscalculia (will their learning support/SEN give him enough help?), and how the Catholic overtone impacts on non-Catholics -
One DS is quite a bright spark, and on the face of it, if academic achievements were the only measuring stick, we could be thinking of Dame Alice Owen, St Albans, Highgate etc, but he is an anxious boy, reacts nervously to pressure. Worries, has a little compulsive obsessive disorder about him. We're thinking his self esteem would be better at a school where academic achievement is important but is not so stressed to the detriment of other elements of school life, and where he might be towards the top of some classes.
Our other DS is a different kettle of fish, mild dyslexia, more concerning maths issues (dyscalculia), attention span short; he's beyond his years in visual/spatial awareness, has great imagination, is a real guns and speed loving boy. We're meeting the SENco but would like to hear from others about their experience of extra support at St Ed's. Again, self-esteem might be better at this school if there are other students not selected on academic ability alone.
What do your children say about the participation in the religious aspects of the school?
How are issues on sex education, sexuality, contraception taught there?
Comments greatly appreciated.