It’s quite interesting to see these four schools listed together and to read the different comments on them. Academically, looking at national league tables such as The Times, DGS is usually very slightly ahead of SGS and Judd, while WCGS tends to sit a bit below those three. So, looking purely at academics, I’d say DGS, Judd and SGS are broadly in the same bracket. DGS offering the IB is also a factor, although I’m not sure how long they will continue with it now that the government has stopped the extra funding.
In terms of selectivity, I personally wouldn’t put any of these in the truly super-selective category. To me, the genuinely super-selective schools are the ones that don’t effectively favour children based on where they live. As far as I know, in the London area that is basically QE, Wilson’s and St Olave’s. Most of the others have some sort of catchment or distance factor, so location still gives some children an advantage.
For these four specifically, if access to central London matters for work or commuting, I’d probably rule out Judd first. Then, because SGS and WCGS are so close to each other, and SGS is slightly stronger academically, I’d probably rule out WCGS as well. That then leaves SGS and DGS.
Both are good schools, but honestly, I still wouldn’t move house just for those two. If I were prepared to move, I’d be more inclined to do it for one of the three truly super-selective schools, assuming my son could realistically get in. If I were renting and could move fairly easily, then between Dartford and Sutton I’d mainly be looking at budget and environment. Dartford is quite a big town with fast trains into London, while Sutton feels a bit smaller and, in my opinion, the surrounding area is nicer, although property is probably more expensive.