Mayfield School, Sussex

[Frankfurt17]

Anyone have any knowledge of this school. Looking at it for boarding for dd in next couple of years. Thanks.

Sorry about all that - I think I needed to get it of my chest!

Indeed I think you did 😁 When were you there?

Frankfurt17 : Thank you so much and wish you have a nice visit!

TheReturnoftheSmartArse: Sounds quite rigid back in your days

SmartArse, I get what you say entirely. It think it is a different school now. The head is very impressive, and it offers a good alternative to London families who want something gentler and broader for their daughters, than the London day school arms race. Results appear good for what is not a particuarly selective school.

Have you read Karen Armstrong's Through the Narrow Gate, about her time as a postulant/novice there? Now effectively a historical piece, except for those of us who are old enough to haver been educated by nuns who themselves were trained pre-second Vatican Council. I could only read a few pages at a time.

Thanks needmoresleep. Reassuring! What's the entrance exam like?

Oh, I don't think I want to read that, Needmoresleep - I've clearly got enough issues as it is! I do genuinely believe it to be a different school now though - my colleague's daughter apparently couldn't be happier and though I've only met her twice, her mother and I are close so I know a lot about her (as does she about my DCs) and I think that though she's not super bright, she's going to do really well at Mayfield as she's so happy. I have a very high IQ but did very badly and I'm sure it's only because I was so unhappy (and young for my year, and immature and unsophisticated with it). What I'm trying to say is that I believe it to be a really happy, nurturing school now and that a happy child who is comfortable in her learning environment will reach her potential. I've seen that from my own DCs.

My posts really aren't intended to put people off, I promise! And I would love to hear what you thought of it after the Open Days because I'm not brave enough to go back myself!

Can I ask how recent your own experience was? 😀

Anyone who remembers Harris tweed cloaks has to be a certain age. I have been back a few times recently and, having had DC go through the London day school rat race, genuinely think that the modern Mayfield could represent a good alternative for the right child. Education is more than just grades.

Thanks needmoresleep. Appreciate that! It's all a minefield really.

"A certain age" ... let's just say I have a big birthday coming up next year

Several of my friends go back frequently so it wasn't all bad - I don't think I was an easy child. I'm certain it would be a good choice now and that you would have no regrets if your daughter went there.

Frankfurt17: It has been a while, how do you feel after going to Open Day?