Magdalen College School

[Supercoolmoon]

Hi all, I am looking at Magdalen College School in Oxford, and was hoping to be able to chat with parents of students who are there? We live close to MCS and the headmaster of my child's school is telling us to apply to it. I have booked a visit but haven't been yet. The application process seems the 'nicest' I have read so far, tailored to let the children shine in their own way rather than being 'we are the best and only the best can join us'. However I am wondering whether we are naive and if the school is at a level that our child is not.
Can anyone share their experiences? Does anyone have any CAT4SAS and/or Atom Learning SAS to share for this school?

Thank you in advance!

Your headmaster wouldn't be advising you if it wasn't the right option for your ds, go with the advice.

It is highly academically selective and whilst great for the right child, not for everyone even if very bright. Need to be likely to get all A’s AND cope with an environment in which that is expected.
If your ds is in a school which regularly sends to MCS the head’s steer is probably correct, if not it might be less of a predictor.
Application process is very similar to all other local independents…

I would also look at other excellent local schools to avoid the all eggs in one basket risk. Eg Abingdon and coeds

My ds goes to this school and loves it. It is an academic school but in terms of homework it has not been too bad. There does not seem to be excessive pressure placed on pupils. If your son is good enough to get in I expect he will be fine.

Thank you, really interesting. We’ve applied elsewhere too, however I like the look of it on paper so is good to hear from current families!

I have two DS’s there and we have been really pleased with it. DS1 has high functioning ASD and dyspraxia, and they have been supportive and nurturing, (contrary to local rumours). The days are short and intense compared to schools like Abingdon, which have boarding provision and you need to decide if that would suit your family.

Both prep school heads recommended MCS DS1 and 2 (different prep schools) and they know what they were talking about. I had doubts about DS1 being able to cope, but he has thrived. Feel free to pm me if you want more info.