Looking for a good but not hugely pressured school in NW3

[nemo123]

Hi there

My son is very good at maths but not so hot in English, and languages in general. He is unlikely to get in to the top schools in this neighbourhood (Hampstead), and frankly, not sure I would want to put him in a very competitive environment. Just not him. Was thinking about Northbridge House for when he's 13 (he's now in year 5). But I've heard mixed reviews. Can anyone with experience of the school give me his/her opinion about Northbridge post combining with girl school? Am looking for a solid education, not too much pressure (i.e. not UCS or Highgate), with nice kids, a happy environment and not too far from NW3. Any suggestions appreciated.

Hi, my DC are in North Bridge. Nursery and Junior are great. Upper prep is not that great for the academic child but if you say you don't want the competitive and pushy environment it should be fine. From Year 9 the campus based in Hampstead, nearly on the High Street which is very convenient.

Did you see the school? I didn't myself but friends say it looks great, airy and nice classes, they've got much better facilities after joining with the Royal School. You have to see for yourself because it is all very personal.

I'm sure they will be happy to have a smart child as most of the boys leave at 13 and girls at 11. My very close friend's daughter tried it for 11+ coming from state school and was offered a scholarship. Most pupils come from state schools and some from smaller preps that end at 11 and who couldn't get in the tops. I think they take nearly every child if there are places. It is not the academic hothouse. Quite gentle place for a child who is not that robust and shy. And it is not the big school, everyone knows each other. Nice atmosphere and they get not bad exits for 6th form.

Honestly UCS is not pushy at all when you get in there. This is the very big challenge. It is getting more and more competitive. And the English Exam is very hard there.

Portland Place School is may be also good for what you are looking for, but it probably a bit far. The upside thing is that they don't have hot lunches there.

You should try King Alfred's.