which area to target for grammar schools: Watford, Ascot, Crabrook grammar/ Tunbridge wells

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HOw would you approach this question: I am looking for a new job and can target these 3 areas...eventually would like my kids to go to grammar in the area of my job...which one would you recommend please? what are the pros/ cons ? Thank you

They're quite different places (the locations I mean). Is school the major factor in your decision?

Not sure if there are many near Ascot tbh. Bucks and Kent yes. Cranbrook has 13+ entry atm although there are plans to change to 11+ . The main issue is that the school options for those missing out at 11+ tend to be not so great.

The Watford Grammar Schools are actually comprehensives - no 11+ in Herts since the 70s.

25% of both of Watford Grammar schools' intake is from those who pass an academic admissions test,(and 10% for those passing a musical aptitude test), so they aren't fully comprehensive. They do operate a siblings policy, across both girls and boys, so only the eldest actually has to pass!

You need to look not only at the grammars but also at the schools you would go to if they don't pass of course, and be sure you are happy with all the alternatives.

If you can do Watford, can you do South Buckinghamshire. Maybe 30 percent of children pass the 11 plus.

From Ascot you could look to Kingston or Slough or Bucks for grammars, but you need to check the entry criteria regarding location. The local school in Ascot (Charters) is a safe bet if they don't get in.

Both Tiffin Boys and Girls now have some sort of catchment so Ascot wouldn't be do-able

Are you certain they will get in?
Because you need to look at the Secondary Moderns in the area as well.

are u sure that choosing an area to live on this basis is wise?
What if you hate the area and they don't get in?

Watford Grammars are increasingly hard to get into. Only 45 academic places available at each school. Over 2000 children sitting the test. Last year, only children scoring in the top 2% to 3% in the test were offered a place.

We know several people who've moved to Kent for its fantastic grammar school system - which suddenly seems less fantastic when your child is 'deemed suitable for a High School education'. And we live in East Kent which has approximately 25-29% of children going on to grammar school.

sorry what do you mean by 'deemed suitable for a High School education'?

Worried - it means that the child did not pass the 11+ exam.

That is roughly what they say if you don't pass the 11+.