Deciding between Kingston Grammar (KGS), Emmanuel and Whitgift

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Hello
My son has had offers from the above schools and we are trying to narrow it down. He's joining in Year 7. He's academic but also sporty.

To us Kingston seems to be the best academically (Emmanuel is too). I am interested in hearing about the pastoral care and experiences of current students at Kingston Grammar School.

We also decided on KGS. On balance it was the best fit.

We’ve still got to fill in the forms, which I’ll do at lunchtime. Out of interest, what were the clinchers for you guys for KGS? The one thing on my mind is how Emanuel is on a trajectory where it’s shooting up the tables. I’m a little worried the KGS head won’t end up sticking around once his daughter has left the school, and he seems such a huge part of the culture and success.

(It sounds like there will be 4 kids coming through to KGS from our prep - including my DS - who were choosing between Emanuel/KGS an Latymer Upper. So we’re clearly all in alignment that KGS is the place to be this year!)

To us Emanuel is too far away so never on our list.

We love that KGS seems to have an inclusive culture, not only focus on the small group at the top; and also since it is a co-ed with less number of girls I just think there might be more opportunities for my DD.

My DD is very positive after going to the offer holder's event (she was not very sure before then but after going to three events she clearly has made up her mind) and very practically it is closest where we live so we end up sending our DD there.

@MunchkinJI’m with you on the Head, but honestly, senior leadership changes can happen anywhere, anytime. KGS has such a stable track record regardless, and the staff turnover rate (around 10-15%) is actually quite healthy/moderate for a middle-top or upper-middle independent.
Our main draws are: (1) it's co-ed, (2) there’s a great balance between academics and wellbeing, (3) the commute—only 20 mins for us, and (4) the vibe. The parent body feels very down-to-earth and "normal" middle class. We really feel like we belong here!