Ardingly or Hurst?

[Marchhare87]

Does anyone have any up-to-date information or views on Ardingly or Hurst? Thinking of it for my DC for secondary school. Is pastoral care good? Are they down-to-earth schools? Hurst seems slicker than Ardingly, but that could just be the marketing department! Thanks in advance.

I doubt you would be disappointed with either. Hurst has been exceptional for us at senior school.

There is substance behind what you worried might be marketing. In our experience the leadership is directed towards achieving the right outcomes for the pupils rather than self-promotion. It has had a 'good pandemic' (to the extent that there can be such a thing) in part, perhaps because it was ahead on the use of technology.

They will talk a lot about the Challenge grade system. It's deeply embedded in what they do and wworks well. Be aware it sometimes contributes to the impression that the school is 'pushy'. We've found they have the balance right - they're above hot-housing, but maybe not the easiest school to 'coast' through.

Plenty of wealthy families, but plenty more who are working hard to meet the fees. On that front it helps that there are relatively few 'extras'- e.g. laptops, catch-up classes all covered by the term fees

Good luck with your decision

Thanks so much MDubya, that's really helpful and positive. Is rugby a big part of school life? Or just an aspect? My son loves football and doesn't really like rugby, which ticks the boxes for Ardingly, but we were all really impressed with Hurst when we looked around and if it wasn't for the rugby/football issue, we'd definitely be putting it top of our list.

Thank you for your help.

People do choose between schools on the basis of rugby v soccer (both ways). Not saying that's wise, though. Sport may be an important part of the day, but this choice is only for one term.

A few observations:

It's just about possible to double-up school rugby and club football on the weekend

If the concern is to avoid rugby, it's possible to opt for a minor sport. Most don't though - participation in even the lowest tiers is genuinely enthusiastic

Hurst will emphasise the value of skills over size. This can make a huge difference to enjoyment for those that might have had less positive prep rugby careers. Equal value is placed whether A's or E's. So don't feel your son would lose out if they have yet to acquire a love for the game.

I recall at one stage Ardingly was offering some form of football academy link. Not sure if they still do.

Thanks so much again. You are so right that the football/rugby thing is one term only. You've been really helpful. Thank you.

Bump for Ardingly info please!

Following with interest. We are considering both of them for our DD, as part of a potential move from London to West Sussex. We are planning to visit both of them but would welcome views.