RGS Guildford vs Brighton college

[LisaRi]

I know it’s a long shot and unlikely a lot of people are in similar situation. DS was offered places at RGS Guildford and Brighton college. I have to decide. RGS if half an hour commute in parent’s car; Brighton 1.5hours in school bus. RGS is £10k a year less expensive, but boys only which is a minus for me. I will be able to come to matches etc in Guildford, but not in Brighton. Brighton has stunning results and is co-ed. Majority of DS’s friends will go to Brighton. What do I do?

1 1/2 hour each way every day? What about for after school activities and weekend fixtures. Little time for friends or local activities. You either need to look at weekly boarding at BC or take the closer option. Is public transport to RGS a future option?

Yes, I know. He now has 40 min one way and all friends are way away. Brighton boarding became unaffordable from this year after VAT (I’m sole breadwinner for 3 kids). But I see your point. If it was not for his heartbreak that all friends are going to BC and the disparity of the results between both schools, I would say it’s a no brainer. But now I am thinking if I’m sacrificing my child’s future to my current circumstances, if it makes sense, and whether we need to make an effort and make BC possible

RGS is a great school but I'm guessing you live between Guildford and Billingshurst / Horsham. What does your ds want? Does he understand the amount of travelling? How about the different sports at the 2 schools? It's a tricky choice but you must have known this when sitting the exams.

Sorry crossed posts. Yes go for RGS for financial security.

We are in Cranleigh. DS wants Brighton, because his Prep school spent years advertising it to the kids and they believe it’s the best school in the world 🙂 He is not overly sporty, likes football and cricket, not keen on rugby or hockey, so Brighton again will be a better option. When we applied, VAT treatment was not certain and we did not know how school will react, Brighton boarding was possible back then. RGS decided to absorb most of impact, their fees are going 3% up this year, while Brighton slapped it on almost in full on parents. Basically, for me as parent, RGS is better, for DS it’s Brighton. And I’m trying to evaluate the level of sacrifice needed and if it is worth it. I think you are right about financial security. It’s probably a reasonable choice.

Cranleigh to Brighton every day for 30ish weeks a year is a real trek. I think you have to go for RGS. It's a really great academic school and he will have a fantastic education with local friends.

RGS is a wonderful school. I would say go to RGS or move house. Cranleigh to Brighton college commute every day is not OK.

Thank you ladies. You are the best