Westminster / St Pauls / City / KCS

[DulwichDaddy1]

I'd love to hear any views about whether the schools in the thread title would be a good fit for my son who is not very bookish.

He's just started y5 at prep school and the school have suggested that we consider these schools as 13+ destinations because he's doing very well in class and has got good CAT scores (140).

I'm concerned about whether he'd enjoy these schools - he's a smart kid but doesn't read much and won't join any of the academic clubs at school. He's not lazy - he plays loads of sport inside and outside school and is in a couple of music groups- but he doesn't seem like he has a very academic focus that I think these potential schools might be suited to.

Would appreciate any insight!

Go to the Open days with or without your son in the summer term and get the feel of the place. Also, only single sex school and no coed therefore get a wider range of schools to compare. Also, 13+ and not 11+, check some schools have more places for 11+.

13+ or 11+ depends on the Prep you are in, and the systems that are in place - if you are at one of the Dulwich ones that go up to Y9 then go for the 13+.

Do not choose schools based on cat scores! We had a fairly high cat score too and decided against the schools you mention for various reasons. You need to go visit. St P has a fairly sporty vibe and may be suitable for an all rounder. I also know parents at King's who are very happy but I was keen to find a place that wasn't all academics after Y9.

Thanks - good suggestions.... will definitely check out open days.

We're fairly set on !£+/single sex but will think a bit further on both fronts.