School choice

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Hello,

We live in Pinner West London and are actively looking at different secondary school options in the wider area, from St Albans, Bushy, Bucks, Northwood and so on, anything within a 30-40min drive. We are focusing on schools that are academically moderate, as we believe in a balanced educational journey and not kids spending 12 hours per day behind a book or computer. As such, we would not be looking at MTS or Habs, that require significant 11plus preparation in all honesty even before starting Year 7.

These could be private independent schools but also state schools as such Sandrigham just outside St Albans, Having researched widely (we know all the schools in the wider area), from Berko in Berkhamsted to St Margarets in Bushy or Northwood School not far from Pinner all with a average score of 25-35% at A level top grades something we consider a reasonable indicator, we feel the choice is not great and just wonder what the group thinks ? We would really appreciate views from people that have recently gone though the process or have currently children in secondary school within the broader area.

If you’re looking at state schools, you need to see whether you meet the admission criteria, which will be on their website. You are expressing a preference for a state school, not making a choice. If you decide on a private option, it will depend on whether those schools are selective and require the child to pass a test to be offered a place.

https://www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/services/schools-and-education/school-admissions/research-a-school/school-admissions-previous-years-statistics.aspx#DynamicJumpMenuManager_1_Anchor_1

Allocation day statistics for the current year 7 show cut-off for Sandringham was within distance criterion at not much more than 1000m. The school is oversubscribed (no 'nearest undersubscribed school' allocations).

For indies, we’re currently in the process of applying. We’re in North London so there’s a little overlap. We applied to St Margaret’s after loving it at the open day and the assessment process was great. My DD really enjoyed it. We’re also applying to Forest School in East London but that’s probably too far for you. I’ve heard good things about St Albans (boys and girls) and there’s also Queenswood if you have a girl. And lots of people rave about Aldenham?

If you’re looking for Y7 entry then A-Levels are a long way off and everything can change. We have a DC at St Margaret’s and love it. Bear in mind it has effectively had a reinvention under the current (amazing) Head Mrs Péchard after a very difficult period before her appointment when pupil numbers, funds and staff morale were a low ebb.

The first cohort to have been selected on her watch have not even taken their GCSEs yet. She has a knack for attracting and retaining excellent teaching and pastoral staff so that the school can build its academic reputation whilst not losing its very important emphasis on balance, happiness and community. The momentum she has built in 5 years has been extraordinary, and past exam results are definitely not a reliable guide to the future. I’d encourage you to visit if you can.

Can I ask why you’re dismissed the likes of Nower Hill, Whitmore, Northwood and Pinner High?

If you are looking at state schools you need to check admissions for your exact address because they will have very tiny catchment areas due to the area being densely populated.

Private schools obviously don't have catchment areas but you'll need to look at travel routes, public transport options and school bus routes can be very important as they get older. I wouldn't overthink it more generally, children with involved parents do well everywhere