Kingsdale opinions - direct experience please

[Wanderlust9]

I know there have been lots of threads about this school but I am only interested in hearing from people who have recent direct experience with the school (last 5 years)

DD wants to go there. She has an EHCP. Will she be put in lowest sets with the worse behave kids and be forgotten about?

I have always been of the impression that this school is good for kids that have a talent: academically, music or sport. Not so good for the rest.

Does the school have a strong discipline? Lots of detentions? Or do they have some freedom?

What is behaviour like?

Does it feel crowded?

What about opportunities for trips? Are they for everyone?

Are the teachers good? Caring? Probably too much to ask for a a school of 3k children.

Thanks in advance.

@Wanderlust9 I’m wondering how your DC is getting on? I have similar concerns about my DD and wondering if it worked out for you? Any insight would be greatly appreciated!

DC did not go to Kingsdale; they have a friend there and apparently maths is very bad there and child falling behind; saying that DC is at another school and maths are pretty rubbish too. We both pay private tutors.

This doesn’t suprise me. Huge staff turnover at Kingsdale as the staff are treated so badly. So end up with lots of cover teachers or those that can’t get other jobs! They recruit well, but don’t retain.

Thanks for your feedback! My DC got into Charter so I wanted to compare!