11 Plus Exams Forum

Has anyone found that on a second visit their impression of the school was very different from their first? This has happened a few times for me this year. Schools in question, dartford girls, tonbridge grammar and townley. Last year visited dartford girls and absolutely loved the place, the atmosphere, the teaching staff etc. Was absolutely sure this was the right place for DD. But this year when DD actually sat for and passed the tests, we visited the school as a family and were quite underwhelmed. There wasnt anything wrong either but felt like a completely different school in the space of a year.

Tonbridge was the reverse. Visited in july this year and then again with DD after results and all of us liked it very much. However, distance is going to be an issue as its 1.5 hrs away and only 30 ooc places. Although Dd may well get in on score.

Townley too has been a case of opposite impressions. Last year didnt really like it although facilities looked great and headteacher seemed very committed. This year liked it a lot better. The school seems to have improved enormously.

Anyone else went through this? Or care to share any views on these schools?

That is the point of second visits - a bit like second viewings on houses - it makes it more real and allows you to compare with other schools now that you have seen them all.

Nothing else to say except please, please, please do NOT consider any school that is 1.5 hours away!!!!! 3 Hours a day travelling is a ridiculous thing to impose on an adult, yet alone a child and you are setting her up to fail to integrate, right from the off.