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Secondary education

Connect with other parents whose children are starting secondary school on this forum.

Thames Christian School vs Kew House School

9 replies

BouliDK · 26/07/2024 20:53

We will possibly have to end up choosing between Thames Christian School and Kew House at 11+ for our boy. Any thoughts on pros and cons? We currently have a preference for TCS because of location and the fact that it’s family owned.

OP posts:
Itssunnyagain123 · 27/07/2024 10:32

Read the recent reviews on Kew. TCC has a great reputation. Gardener school provide very little value for money.

ghislaine · 29/07/2024 11:41

I don't know Kew, but I did visit TCC and decided not to apply based on what I observed and heard from the senior management. There's an illuminating thread on Nappy Valley about TCC.

You also need to bear in mind that schools owned by individuals often have poor or no accountability mechanisms (if that is important to you).

edited for grammar

BouliDK · 29/07/2024 15:04

Thanks guys. Interesting. Are there any current Thames Christian school parents that could provide any input? Would be useful to know. I don’t feel we have many choices if the more academic schools just don’t work out. Any ideas? We will based in Parsons Green.

OP posts:
wasthesummerof69 · 29/07/2024 16:12

Despite some iffy reviews I do know lots of people who have and have had happy kids at Kew House. Some moved there for sixth form and did very well, better than their previous schools had led them to believe they would do.

Campiondi · 03/08/2024 21:57

We have had very positive experiences with Thames Christian School. My first child attended for years 8-11, after a not so successful year in another independent school. Was very happy and thrived at Thames, going on to sixth form with a fantastic set of skills, and has just graduated from University with a job in the relevant field. Competed in sports at regional level and reached national level competitions in all four years with Thames.

My second child did years 7-11 at Thames, achieved 12 GCSEs with grades that match highest cohorts in local highly selective schools. Prep school suggested very selective schools but child (and I) loved Thames and we knew the staff would ensure full potential was reached. Number 2 did try a different school for sixth form, but it was not successful and subsequently returned to Thames where the new sixth form matches the superb standards of the whole school. Opportunities for number 2 have included regional level sports, poems and short stories published in books, Bronze, Silver and Gold DofE, Crest science awards, etc.

The school has a fantastic cohort, boys and girls from different ethnic backgrounds, religions, and a range of abilities. The school is very academic, rigorous, nurturing, supportive and caters for different learners very well. The teachers are excellent. I work in education and go into different schools frequently. I have every confidence in TCS and they have been amazing with my children.

Super art and design facilities, science labs, strong music, drama, languages, etc. Teachers do well at finding students talents and nurturing them.

The school has a family atmosphere with students making friends across years as well as within year. My older child still sees TCS friends. My younger has a solid group of friends too.

BouliDK · 04/08/2024 07:28

That’s great to hear thanks @Campiondi !

OP posts:
Winifredduck · 04/08/2024 21:00

Hello, I am also considering Thames Christian School for my child. I know two families irl who have children at the school. They both echo what campiondi has written.
I have found that when looking for info on TCS, the negative comments are made from people who haven't sent their children there.

CarenKngt11 · 27/02/2025 11:07

wasthesummerof69 · 29/07/2024 16:12

Despite some iffy reviews I do know lots of people who have and have had happy kids at Kew House. Some moved there for sixth form and did very well, better than their previous schools had led them to believe they would do.

Kew House have a very small cohort for 6th form, so they ought to do well for them. Although a large number do not end up going to uni. So not sure what the definition of doing well is. As for the lower school, it is not value for money. One of the most expensive schools and all you get are excuses. Beware. And try to understand if the goals of the "happy parents" at Kew House are the same as yours. Some of them are just relieved their non-academic children have a place to go.

ThatKhakiSeal · 03/03/2025 17:27

I have to disagree with the previous comment. The sixth form is thriving and has a current cohort of over 150 students. Students mostly go to university after leaving as well. My DS went there and loved the nurturing support they provided. I know the fees have risen which might be a concern for some but to say it’s low ability is inaccurate. My DS had two students go to Oxford from his year group.

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