Putney High or Kingston Grammar School

[Ettington]

My niece just got places at both at 11+:) Any advice on which to choose would be most welcome...She really didn't like the teacher who interviewed her at PHS so wants to go to KGS, but don't think this is the way to decide...

Well done her. They are both fantastic schools.
2 key considerations
Q1 would she prefer co-ed or all girls?
Q2 which is easiest journey? (Include the sports fields in this)

I've heard fab things about KGS. OTOH, my niece just started at PH and is (in spite of her dad's lack of enthusiasm for it, for no particular reason other than 'just not all that exciting') very happy, has lovely friends, and is enjoying it.

Not very helpful, sorry - I think if it was me, I'd go for KGS because it's co-ed, amongst other things, but I think it's very individual decision and depends on the child. Liking teachers does count, too...though there is always one, I suppose

It boils down to if you want co-ed or single sex. Both are good schools - and distance and journey there is v imp

Agree absolutely, trader21c.
FWIW my DD is at PHS and I am v pleased with it, not just the teaching, but my DD's made lovely friends there. She is v happy. (For my part, I am pleased there are no boys to distract, and the sciences and maths are as appealing to the girls as arts/humanities.)
It really depends on where you think your DD will flourish.

Sometimes those experiences during the admission procedure are the way to decide. Maybe go back for another visit but the DCs really do get a feel for what is right for them and maybe in trying to rationalise it they come out with one part of the process. I also would think very hard before you decide to go against their inclination unless you have a really good reason. You are going to be blamed for everything for the next few years, might as well not add that to the list. They are both good schools.

Well done her! As everyone has said, they are both great schools. My dd is starting at KGS in September (she did the 10+ last year) and we love it, we also liked PHS but opted for co-ed. We love the vibe of the school and its lack of airs and graces. The new head sounds great too.

I know KGS are doing a tour on 28 Feb for those who have been offered places and are undecided, I'm sure PHS does similar. I would go on those and go with gut feeling.

I don't know where she lives but KGS have two bus routes now, one from Chiswick and one from Barnes, just south of Hammersmith Bridge, through Barnes (along the river) and Sheen. I am sending DD on it for the first year at least.