Independent, liberal, creative, not-pushy secondary independent education SE or SW London

[mmoob]

I'm looking for it all...

I am considering moving to either Greenwich/Blackheath OR Richmond/Kingston area. I am looking at (independent) secondary schools to see if the move is remotely feasible.

Both children are dyslexic but bright, creative and full of beans. They will need some extra help getting through some of the GCSEs but I want to find a school that can give this but also help them to really excel in the areas they are good at - i.e. the less academic areas - arts, after-school activities etc. A school that genuinely celebrates all-round achievement, not only exam results. A relaxed atmosphere with lots on offer/going on, particularly in creative subjects (art, DT, textiles, pottery, drama, music etc etc.). Co-ed or girls only both fine (daughters).

Some of the more nurturing schools I have considered in the past seem very small and slightly claustrophobic - and their size can often limit the extra opportunities available (for children who often depend more on those out-of-class opportunities).

Only looking at Independent schools at the moment as they will need the smaller classes for focus and support - and that is their experience to date.

Any schools leap out at anyone?

They will have to GET IN to these schools too - i.e. those with tough entrance exams will be a struggle.

Any thoughts much appreciated.

[snowsjoke]

have heard that Blackheath High School is very supportive of girls with special needs and the results are good too. Quite arty and the pastoral care is great.

[snowsjoke]

have heard that Blackheath High School is very supportive of girls with special needs and the results are good too. Quite arty and the pastoral care is great.

[harrassedswlondonmum]

The new school mentioned in Chiswick is called Kew House. It is just over Kew Bridge, on the Chiswick side, next to Brentford Leisure centre.

It opens for business in September 2013.

[tigerellatomato]

Kew House may not be a good choice if your daughters are sporty as it's based in an old office block with no sports grounds, and little outdoor space.

[ConfusedMummy1]

Have you considered Colfe's school in Lee. It's not far from Greenwich/Blackheath. It's good all round school, strong in sports, art and music. Lots of out door space, which sports field and swimming pool on site. Class size 20 max. Goes from pre prep up to sixth form. My child is very happy there. I met a mum recently that moved her DS who is bright but has SEN to year 5 from Blackheath Prep and she's very happy she did. I'm not convinced Blackheath High School supports SEN that much.

[elittleb]

mmoob - if you can get down to see Prior's Field, you'll fall in love with it. Non stressy and non hot housing (but still happy to administer a royal ass kicking to my underperforming DD upon request :-) )

Clever girls perform well, less clever / SEN girls are encouraged and supported to achieve the best they can. A competent, approachable teaching staff, good leadership, lots of workshops to support learning.

More value added activities than you can shake a stick at. All qualities and talents in the girls are valued and celebrated. One thing my DD said is that she'll try anything at PF because no one ever takes the mickey out of you.

From a parental point of view, our year group is as jolly and sociable as you will find at secondary level. It's all rather pleasant. Just move a few miles further out of Kingston area!