We are trying to decide between two secondary schools for our son. We have offers from both.
The first is relatively small, highly nurturing and very much tailored to the individual. My son liked it when we went to the open days, but it was second choice. This has changed since he attended a taster day, which he absolutely loved.
The second school is larger (medium-sized overall) and has excellent academics and sports. Initially, it was his first choice because it does a lot of hockey - his favourite sport. It is a friendly place (not at all alpha), but maybe the warm and fuzzy doesn't hit quite so quickly as with the first school. We went on a taster day yesterday, and I could tell on the tour that we did together that he just wasn't so comfortable. He said afterwards that he would prefer the first school.
Truthfully, it was a bit of a surprise because all along, it has been the other way around. I think he will do well academically at each, the logistics of getting to each school are similar (though the first is closer, so perhaps there is a greater chance of more local friends). However, it is hard to say no to the other one, where I think the opportunities are arguably greater and I worry that he could outgrow the first school. (I think it will be a marvellous place to start, but it may feel a bit small by the end?). I am talking to other parents I know at the school to learn about their children's experiences.
What would you do? Obviously, I want my son to be happy and settled and he has made that connection with school one. I also often say, to be wary of the 'shoulds' in life - somewhere can be great for many reasons, but it's how you feel that matters. Still, I am finding it hard to put into practice here!
To add, he's a nice-mannered, average boy - quite gentle and friendly. Not overly outgoing, tends to have a smaller group of friends, but likes to join in with larger groups through team sports and other activities.