Priestlands vs Hounsdown

[justhavingalook]

We are moving to Hampshire and would appreciate any comments people might have on Hounsdown and Priestlands schools. Both look to be good schools. Is there much to pick between them?
Thanks

Priestlands has its own 6th form - very unusual in Hampshire
but kids from there also go to Brock, Barton and Symonds.

Hounsdown has had high staff turnover in recent years but still seems to hold its own.

Remember that Hampshire schools are all catchmented so you need to know where the catchment is relative to your house just in case

Can't tell you about hounsdown, but DD went to priestlands - was happy and did well. But it doesn't have a 6th form. DD went to Arnewood in new Milton for 6th form as I refused to pay the train fare to Symonds. Lots also went to Brock. But yes you do usually have to be in catchment.

Ah, sorry, my fail.
I knew there was a 6th form in the south of the Forest !

I can't tell you anything about Priestlands, but I strongly recommend Hounsdown. I haven't experienced any issues with staff turnover as my DC had consistency in all 5 years there. I would actually say that the senior leadership team is very stable and they have a good solid core of experienced staff. A few have gone on maternity leave, but they are soon back again. The pastoral care is excellent, including Mr Digby the Therapy Dog and a team of staff who have gone above and beyond what I would expect to care for their pupils in challenging times. Staff run after school & holiday sessions throughout the whole of year 11 which are available to all pupils regardless of whether they are in the top, bottom or middle sets. There is a good range of subjects available and a good focus on sport and performing arts.

You are very unlikely to get a place at Hounsdown outside of the catchment area. The catchment covers part of the New Forest, where the children get priority for places over those who live in Totton but are also in catchment. This year a few who live in Totton but are outside of catchment have won places on appeal.