Thoughts on Berkshire/Surrey/Hampshire prep/indy schools

[Dreambee]

Hello all, I'm now casting my eye beyond the current Covid situation to finding a new job for September, and I would really appreciate views on specific schools in the above mentioned areas. I posted something similar a couple of years ago but after a regretted move back to the state sector, my priorities have changed/become clearer. I now know that I must work in a school that is ambitious, truly values ALL areas of the curriculum and building up the whole child, puts it work force above pandering to parents and inspectors, and trusts teachers enough to offer them some professional autonomy and individuality.

I am primarily looking at co-ed independent prep schools that go up to 13 years. I live in Reading so I've identified a few schools within a fairly short drive that seem to fit the bill on paper, i.e. Lambrook, St George's Windsor Castle, Eagle House, Crosfields, the Dolphin, Sherfield. I'm probably most interested in the first two schools. I'm also somewhat dubious of schools run as ltd companies (I've worked at one in the past) especially as staying in the TPS is important to me. All that being said, I am open to being flexible for the right school so suggestions of other places are very welcome.

I would also definitely consider applying to a senior school but my experience only goes up to Common Entrance level (although I understand that there is a lot of cross over with ks4, especially at the scholarship level). Saying that, does anyone have any experience of Leighton Park (I think on paper this school matches my educational ethos the most).

Also, how common is part time working? I'd be really keen on doing something like 80% over 5 days so I can spend more time with my own children and actually connect with their school. I never know when to ask about this in the application process.

I am also aware that some places have Saturday school - any ideas in what this means for teachers would be great as only the boarding staff in my previous school worked on Saturdays. I wouldn't be opposed to working on Saturday if it wasn't every week.

If you prefer, please feel free to PM me with your honest thoughts.

Thanks in advance!

Little bump just in case

I am in a senior school in Hampshire so not prep but I have a few thought.

Not heard good things about Sherfield from former staff, also it has gone through a lot of heads recently and has a shrinking 6th form. Which doesn’t sound like a thriving school.

At my school if you are part-time you don’t do the Co-curricular stuff so no Saturday and Wednesday afternoons. But I know it varies hugely between schools.

2 other possibilities Cheam (do a nice sports tea and lovely setting) or St Gabriel’s, but not sure if they would be in the right commute for you.

Thank you for your insight on Sherfield and part time work at your school. I'll check out the schools you mention

Also not heard great things from a current Sherfield staff member (hard-working, experienced teacher whose judgment I trust.) Cheam and St. Gabriel’s both lovely schools. Don’t know staff at Leighton Park but know parents, who are very happy. Good luck!