Secondary options overwhelming , US expats need guidance :)

[akdfromcalitouk]

We are an American family who has lived in SE London since we moved here in 2019. Our children attend Oakfield (we love it!) and my son is about to enter Y6.

The secondary school process is overwhelming and we are coming into this experience fairly blind (in the US you either go to state school or an independent, but the vast majority of independents are not selective- you just pay!)

We will apply to indies and are open to state schools, though know very little about the secondary school state sector. We prefer co-ed and local (no hour long shuttle or long journeys preferred!)

What co-ed secondaries are down to earth with a strong sense of community?

We like St. Dunstan's, and our headteacher encouraged DS applying to Alleyn's (DS is a strong mathematician.) As a family we wholeheartedly care about the whole child, enjoyment of childood, and a love of learning.

Are there other local-ish indies we should be looking at? Appreciate insight about this whole experience!

I don't know your area, but I would plan to apply and use all your state choices, while you look at Indies, until you are sure. Your local authority website should have a big long document which will tell you information like how many applications were successful for each state school, what the distance was in past years, or if it was decided by lottery.

I'd suggest reposting (or asking MN to change your existing post) to include the area you are looking for in your title. You are more likely to attract people who actually have some insight into potential schools.