Kingston Academy vs Esher College

[lulu399]

My DS has been offered a place at Esher College as well as the Sixth form of Kingston academy. He likes both, but one of his teacher has advised him to stay clear of Kingston Academy and didn't want to say why. Can anyone please help and give us some feedback regarding both schools?

I'm afraid I don't know much about KA, but Esher has an excellent reputation. My dd is on the waiting list for Esher, so perhaps I should be telling you it's a terrible place!

KA has a very sought after reputation locally. It’s not much help a teacher saying to steer clear unless they’re prepared to back it up.

My son is in his first year at Esher and we have been really impressed by everything we have experienced and DS is really happy and blossoming. Afraid I can't comment on TKA

Esher

That's good to hear as both my DDs have been accepted for Esher.

@Ketzele don't despair I know of 4 or 5 teens with offers from Esher who have decided to stay at their current schools.

Esher is much more established. Has tka had a pre covid a level cohort?

No, I don't think so. I believe that they will publish their first ever A level results this coming August.

I've not heard great things about Kingston Academy tbh, whereas Esher has a solid reputation. They're very different environments though. Does your DC want a school or college atmosphere?

I don't think he has any idea what to expect from a college atmosphere. And I can't give any advice either as I went to a grammar school. I like the fact that Kingston Academy is considerably smaller, but don't know any kids in Lower Sixth who I could ask about their experiences. Could you possibly tell me what you have heard about the school that you didn't like?

I've heard the kids are quite disrespectful to the adults. But to be fair, I don't know that much about it. It's quite oversubscribed so it can't be that bad.

Colleges tend to be more suited to kids who are driven and motivated. I think schools are more supportive of students.

Thank you all for your advice. My DS will attend both taster days and will hopefully choose the school/college that suits him best.