Hampton vs Reeds

[11pluswait]

We are very fortunate to find ourselves in the position of choosing between these two very good schools. I'm going slightly bonkers trying to make a final, final decision so am calling on MNetters to give me a hand please

Experience from current parents of either school would be very welcome.

The journey is not a factor as we live more or less in between the two. We are leaning towards Reeds as we see smaller, more nurturing and fantastic sports opportunities for sporty but sensitive DS.

I think we have made our decision as a family (Reeds) and I guess I'm looking for positive experiences from current Reeds parents that we're making the right choice!! Hampton is very hard to turn down but it comes down to fit at the end of the day doesn't it. TIA

We are turning down what is seen as a more academic school for Reeds too.

Thank you @byfleetpuddles. That really helps! 😊

We turned down Hampton for Reeds some years ago and never regretted it. Don’t think twice, lovely nurturing kind environment which gets the best out of my son and gave him time to grow up outside a pressure cooker.

Thank you @meeeeeeeee! That helps hugely. Just what I needed to hear.

Reed’s here too. No regrets!

Many thanks @Phwooooar. Feeling more contended now!

We also are choosing Reeds over Hampton. Never saw the appeal with Hampton but instantly felt it with Reeds and I really liked the boys that showed us around both times. I love the ethos and that there is a sports team for all boys. So important for that age group.

We picked Hampton & quiet ds has thrived & is v happy. Doing well at sports even though hadn’t considered him particularly sporty!
Both good schools but you wouldn’t be disappointed with Hampton either - pastoral side is superb, & if you want sport, the sport facilities & results brilliant.
Guess it’s just your gut feel. A win either way 😁

Thank you @jor456! It’s the ethos that we really loved too. And the ‘feeling’ that it’s the right one. You can’t really argue with that.
@Boysandgirls... I appreciate the counter view. And Hampton will be hard to turn down. But as you say... no wrong decisions at this stage.

Thanks all

Reed’s is one of the most popular schools at the moment. I’d pick it over Hampton just for the look of the place! Hampton just looks like a glorified 60s/70s built state school

Hampton is undoubtedly more academic with 91% A*-A GCSE compared to 73% for Reeds. That is not to say a child won't do as well at Reeds as they would at Hampton

trinity0097 You need to go in and see Hampton - certainly not old inside, modern and lots of new facilities, inc Hammond theatre & the new Sixth Form Study Centre. The main hall is the more traditional Wood panelled style, but we rather like that 😁

I have been to visit, had a tour whilst my school team were doing a Maths Challenge.

I wasn’t that impressed, for a number of reasons.

Interesting. We really liked the school when we visited (twice). Just proves horses for courses!

my sons very happy there & have only been impressed with the teaching, facilities & pastoral care.

My DS is at Hampton and absolutely loves it there - he is bright and sporty, I’d agree it is probably a more energetic school than KCS and others but he loves that they have the run of the grounds to play rugby / football / manhunt before school and at breaks. It is definitely fast paced academically - he went from top set at his state primary to very much middle of the pack, but is so much more interested in his learning. The teachers are very approachable and seem to build good relationships with the boys, and it feels like a happy, kind environment.
Equally I know other boys there who are less energetic / musical / have other interests and they are also very happy. My impression is that although it is big, it’s not overwhelming, and every boy can find their niche.
Hope that’s helpful - just our experience but I did feel like Hampton was not getting a fair representation !

For what’s it’s worth I always held Hampton in high regard. It was our first choice for a long time for the positive attributes mentioned above and more. But we are going with our guts (and numerous hours of debate!) for Reeds. Thx to all for responding.