Whitgift transport

7 replies

Edim · 23/01/2023 00:43

Hello Everyone,

Are there any Dulwich parents with kids taking the school bus to Whitgift? It is my son's favourite school ( I also believe it would be the best fit for him) and he said he will not mind the commute.... personally I think it will be a lot if done every day... The other option we have is St Dunstain. I know he's only 10, but he is very mature and I thought he should be listened to when choosing his secondary school? Any comment is appreciated! Thanks

OP posts:

London7282 · 14/02/2023 12:11

Hi @Edim - I have the same question re the Dulwich coach! Our son has been offered a 10 plus place for this September and is determined to go but we need to work out what the best logistics will be. At least for the first year when we don't think he will be ready to take the train. Have you had any feedback from elsewhere? I am hoping to make some contacts with parents at Whitgift and if I find out anything re the coach I will share...

Original poster

Edim · 14/02/2023 14:42

I know a mum from our school has 2 sons there already and was hoping to send the third. She said they used to take the bus both ways and now only on the way back. I’m planning to escort my DS to herne hill station (we are in the middle of half moon lane) and wait for the school bus with him for the first month, then I’m sure he’ll walk by himself. I’m sure the kids will be able to socialise during the trip! And I think sooner than we imagine they’ll take the train from North Dulwich! where are u in Dulwich?

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lopsees · 14/02/2023 14:58

You can't wait for the bus with your secondary age child for a month! He'll have zero street cred and be the target of bullies.

Digimoor · 14/02/2023 15:07

Some kids take the bus to school and then the train home
There is no early bus home - they all leave at 5.15pm

The bus now has an app so you can track it - you can see when it's on it's way and it sends notifications when they board the bus

Original poster

Edim · 14/02/2023 16:12

Ok ok, I guess I will learn along the way! Thanks for the heads up! I have no problem letting him go alone.

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hadtonamechangeobviously · 14/02/2023 16:51

lopsees · 14/02/2023 14:58

You can't wait for the bus with your secondary age child for a month! He'll have zero street cred and be the target of bullies.

There are plenty of secondary school (JAGS/Alleyn’s) children being dropped off at school by the their parents, particularly in y7/8 - no-one bats an eyelid. I also see children waiting for the school bus at various stops en route to school.
Having said that, it is likely by the end of day 2 or 3 your DS will be very comfortable going from Half Moon Lane to Herne Hill by himself - the route is so busy with school children and commuters that it’s very safe from that respect.

Original poster

Edim · 15/02/2023 10:10

Thank you @hadtonamechangeobviously I will follow my son’s lead. It just made me think this winter as there is not many people around at 7am and it is still pitch black! Hopefully he’ll connect with other kids doing the same walk!

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