Stoke Newington state v. private options

[sunshinegirl76]

Hi,
Live in Stoke Newington N16 and in a dilemma about secondary options. We have three DDs, the oldest in year 4, so it's becoming a more pertinent issue. Older two DDs doing well at a local state primary and could probably get into private at secondary with a bit of tutoring. DH and I both went to state primaries, then on to private secondaries, and that's probably the option we'd go for if we lived in Hampstead. But what's really putting us off is the commute from Stoke Newington to any of the private schools we'd be most likely to consider - eg Channing, FH. (City of London is another option but I know very pressured/academic etc so may not be the best fit for oldest DD - if she even got in). Anyone have experience of kids doing this kind of commute? We wouldn't be driving them - it would be public transport, at least an hour in each direction and some fairly fiddly changes. On a related note, what do people think about Stoke Newington School?? Seems an obvious option as it's on our doorstep - and free! I really like the idea of the girls being able to walk to school, local friends etc. But there are niggling voices (family members!) who want us to go private - for the usual reasons. I'm not convinced though, mainly because of aforementioned travelling. Any thoughts very welcome - thank you!

[cingolimama]

Sunshine, if you want to chat about St. Marylebone, feel free to pm me.