Whitgift Vs RGS vs Emanuel vs Reeds

[Aror]

Hi,

DS has received offers from Whitgift, Emanuel, RGS ( Guildford) and Reeds. We did a bit of spray and pray as we panicked after he didn’t make the 1st round of Grammer schools. DS is a polite, silent, kind and sensitive boy. He is not extremely active or sporty (doesn’t enjoy rugby) but plays some Cricket, TT and Chess. Academically he is bright but not extremely motivated or hardworking. He is quite laid back and likes to do things at his own pace. A bit of a dreamer. We did tutor him but it was mainly 4 months - Aug, Sept, Oct & Nov. We are certain that he needs a caring and nuturing school (not a hot house) but that also pushes him to bit to mature & grow up. We live in Wimbledon / Raynes Park area.

Whitgift: +ves - well established school with good results. Nice social & demographic mix. Concerns - too sporty & academically hot house , travel time (60-75 mins by public transport or 45 - 50 mins on school coach), big school & pastoral care
RGS Guildford: +ves - well established with good academic results. Concern - lack of social & demographic mix, Sporty & academically hot house and travel time (60-mins by public transport or we will look to move)
Emanuel: +ves - very close (20-30 mins on public transport), came across as caring & nurturing, DS likes it . Concern - Co-Ed, lack of academic ambition
Reeds: +ves - close-ish ( 20 mins drive, 30 - 40 mins public transport), great infrastructure and facilities, came across as caring & nurturing, definitely not a hot house. Concerns - lack of social & demographic mix, lack of academic ambition, expensive

Does anyone have any views / insights /guidance?

OP, not sure if you've made your selection, but our experience of the RGS hasn't been an academic hothouse. DS is in Yr9, so started during COVID times. RGS prioritised the boys' mental health, encouraged them to do exercise challenges at home (walking, running, cycling) and shortened lessons to give screen breaks. Most weeks I'm surprised there isn't more homework to do. DS is finished in 30 mins-1hr, so no burning the midnight oil or missing family meals. There's still time for clubs, music practice and XBOX at the weekend.

There's a lot of opportunity to do sport, if the boys want -after school, lunchtimes, pre school - alongside Games and PE. But, if they aren't keen, there are plenty of other clubs - photography, flight simulator, chess, philosophy, Classics, Science, drama, music and Model United Nations. There are table tennis tables outside, which the boys are free to play on at break or lunchtime.

If mixed demographics are important to you, Surrey is always going to be a challenge. ~33% of DS's tutor group are people of colour (mix of UK born and overseas). Most importantly, the boys get on and work together well. There's a real blend of personalities - quirky, quiet, loud, alpha - just like society. No cookie-cutter selections from the school... just bright boys with different talents & styles. Quiet DS has definitely found his tribe and is at ease. One Mum friend says "at the RGS, it's cool to be a nerd" and likewise, it's cool to be sporty or artistic or musical.

Hope you are doing OK with the decision making process. Great to have so many good options! Sure your DS will do well, wherever you choose.

I have a child in Emanuel and my DC loves it. Actually my child was showing tours on open days this year. The school is really nice, kind children, most teachers are good (there are maybe a couple of exceptions). Lots of sports. My DC is loving it and that’s what’s important. Academics on the rise each year. I would definitely go for Emanuel if I was you.

@Digimoor we are looking at Emanuel for 11+. Can I ask why you don’t like nor rate them? Genuinely interested to understand as much as poss about the school as it’s so close to us it’s the easiest option in that respect. Thanks

I don't like the site wedged between the train lines. Huge amounts of fake grass everywhere.
They go on about how their results have improved - however they have become more selective with their intake so I would expect better results.

@ParkerAustin , check all schools in person for 11+ in Open Day and 11+ process. Ask current parents. Emanuel has 12 acres of school ground so worth to see yourself. Other schools have smaller or larger grounds, different building plans etc, have to see it in person. Most London private day schools have selective intakes due to 11+, interviews, scholarships etc. Good luck!

I agree with HawaiiWake - you need to visit them all and evaluate what matters to you
All sorts of things can put you off a school or make you warm to them