Warwickshire Grammar schools

[Chippednails]

I’d love to hear any experiences of the Warwickshire grammars in particular Alcester. My youngest has just got a qualifying score for the school but we can’t go and see it. Does anyone have any experience of what the culture and ethos is like? It’s always so much better to hear from parents than the prospectus online! Thanks :-)

Due to my dc having SEN we were able to visit the school (she has recently taken the 11+ too). I hadn't really been considering it as it is quite far from us but have now totally changed my mind. All the teachers we met were lovely, friendly and enthusiastic. The buildings and classrooms rival a private school- lovely sports hall and dance studio. The students there seemed really friendly and happy in their lessons. We just got a really good vibe. My daughter has been to visit a number of grammar and independent schools (and has been offered an academic scholarship to one), and whilst she normally comes out saying 'it was really nice etc', this is the only one where she said 'I want to go here!'. The only thing I didn't see were the playing/football fields, and they don't have an astroturf pitch which in this day and age, they really should. Most state schools have them now. They had a 'multi use' pitch which was just an area of concrete. My daughter is sporty but plays netball currently more than hockey so not really a deal breaker, but just surprising for a school with other good facilities. Good spacious art, drama and music departments. The head is apparently leaving and the deputy head is taking over as interim head. I spoke briefly to the deputy head and was very impressed, very personable and has been at the school 25 years which says a lot.

I don't normally write reviews or responses on here but feel we were really lucky to get a tour so want to share our experiences to help others.