Experiences of Farnborough Hill and St Swithun's

[LemonHedgehog]

Hello, we are looking for information about two schools- Farnborough Hill and St Swithuns as both are currently being considered for our next move for our daughter as a day pupil. Our daughter currently attends and loves Hanford School in Dorset, and is fairly academic. I have read conflicting things about both schools online so am looking for current experiences ideally from current parents (as many reviews are from 5 years + ago) of how the culture is within the schools. TIA.

You might want to clarify as SS houses both pre prep/prep and senior schools (I went to SS senior). I assume you are looking at prep, and non-boarding?

From what I know about Hanford it looks utterly idyllic and a very outdoorsy, boarding-centred childhood, heavy on ponies. My idea of heaven! SS is much less Enid Blyton - although I think you'd struggle to find many schools that matched the Hanford ethos.

SS prep is a v good school and also all girls after pre-prep. It has a lovely setting and lots of open space, but not in the same ranging-the-countryside way Hanford has. Is is a bit more traditional and formal too - e.g. use of uniform and academic expectations.

It might help if you let us know more about your DD and what you are looking for in a school, as well as how old she is and what your thoughts are around senior schools? (Oh, I'd also ask this to be moved to the private school thread, you might get more traction there)

Yes sorry - I meant prep! We’re sorry to have to leave Hanford- but jobs relocation means it’s necessary. Thank you for the info on SS, that’s helpful. Our daughter is keen to try everything that’s on offer at her current school and is particularly keen on swimming and English. She would need to go somewhere interrim from September next year if wanting to join Farnborough. On paper SS Prep seems a better fit in terms of countryside aspect etc. How do I ask to move the thread? (Sorry, bit of a newbie here!)

I think you have to flag it to Mumsnet and ask for a move! I’m not sure as I’ve only seen it on threads!

If she's coming from Hanford the culture jump is the bit I'd watch. SS prep is solid but more formal than that outdoorsy Hanford vibe, which might be fine, just don't assume it'll feel the same. Farnborough Hill is 11-18 senior, so that's a different stage again.

Try to see both on a normal day if you can, not just open morning. Ask about swimming properly (how often, fixtures, not just "we have a pool") and chat to day-girl parents at the gate about the commute. That usually tells you more than the prospectus. And flag the Catholic side at Farnborough Hill early if that matters either way.

my dgd is at ss (secondary age and weekly boarded). honestly she had an amazing year. nice friendship group (including with day pupils) she’s made huge academic and personal progress. very supportive and aware staff.