Bristol Cathedral Choir school

[GeorginaK]

Looking for some information about Bristol Cathedral Choir School, ideally from someone whose kids are in the school currently, or knows someone who is going there.
My son passed the music aptitude test for year 7 entry and we are delighted, however it was the only school that he didn't like when we went there in the open day. I know it has an excellent reputation, but i wonder if I could have a better idea about the reasons why, from someone who has a direct experience, as we don't know anyone who has any connections with the school whatsoever. How are the extra-curriculum activities, how many children in a class, are the teachers good, behaviour in the classroom, expectations for homework etc. My son is musical, but probably more interested in art and design.

Any input would be hugely appreciated!

OP - it might be worth uploading this post on the Local-Bristol page, as you might get more responses.

What was it that your son didn't like about the school?
What alternative schools are you considering?
We looked round and decided not to bother applying because dd didn't like it.
We do know some people whose children attended the school (one or two still have siblings there now). But we may be a bit out of date because most of these dcs are now at university.

Thank you JennyMac31, and I was wondering why no-one replies!

catndogslife: I think he didn't like the space (or lack of it), small dark corridors, old buildings etc. In general i think they didn't put much effort to their open event, since they know they will have many applications.

We don't really have many alternatives, apart from St. Bedes Catholic which is near us, but we have very small chance to be accepted there since not catholics. So we are looking into Clifton High and Bristol Grammar as well, but we would struggle financially, so the Cathedral would probably be the best option for us since my son passed their music exam so he has a guaranteed place if we apply for it...I am just trying to see if applying to the independent schools is worth the effort (cause they have exams for entry to Year 7) or should I just persuade my son that cathedral is a very good school and just go for it only!

In general i think they didn't put much effort to their open event, since they know they will have many applications.
We thought that as well. We were shown round by a teacher and the tour was very controlled with no opportunity to meet actual pupils and only limited opportunity to ask questions.
dd wasn't keen on the lack of outdoor space - it wasn't clear where pupils met to socialise over lunch etc.
At the time we looked we thought that GCSE options were rather limited and our first choice MFL was not our preference. but this may have changed.
The school obtains very good results and was a former independent school which became an academy so if you are considering Bristol grammar or Clifton High then it would still be a good option.
How close are you to Bristol Free school as that could be another option for you?
The boys I know who have gone there seem to have liked it more than the girls if that makes sense. A lot of them have studied Engineering, Maths or Music at university. It seems to suit pupils who are good at Maths and/or Music. Rugby and sport seem well catered for (sports facilities off site), but this is also true for the grammar school.