Deverills wrote:
Thank you all. The problem is my DD has said she has no preference. It would be so much easier if she said I love DCHS or BHS is the one. Very confused as to which one to select. Chesham grammar is also in our catchment as of this year but ruled that out based on distance and one thing my daughter has made clear is she doesn't want mixed school as boys are annoying and don't listen in class

On my preference it's DCHS, this might be a sweeping statement but it felt like the school was academically more assertive, pushing the girls beyond there awareness. The reason this is important for her is that she doesn't have the same focus and get up and go, I had to coach her nonstop through 11+ very different to my DS. I am hoping which ever school she goes to there encourage her and I still confidence in her.
Another thought.....which is the closest? If she has a long arduous bus journey this may tire her out in the long run. It was quite a shock for my DD when she had to get up much earlier to catch the bus....we don't actually live far from the school, the bus comes early and she arrives early at school....to enjoy the pastries of the canteen

funnily enough I wished I was in catchment for a mixed school and I've heard great things about Chesham. It's important at this age within classes to have different perspectives of a debate, which boys bring . If it helps my DD in in Y9 at Becky high and I really like the head, the pastoral side is great, they are always talking about good self esteem and mental health. The girls are very happy there and my daughter loves it. They do push....but not within an inch of your life which is not good for mental health. They teach them to be organised with homework , prioritise etc. Just a word of caution be careful if the school you decide upon pushes too hard......you want them happy and mentally intact when the leave . Good luck Dolly x