Local Primary Schools

[mollywynnowen]

Hello! We'd love your help. We're moving back to the UK after many years abroad with a 7 and 5 year old in tow. We're looking for local information on primary schools. Of course we can search the schools' websites but it's so useful to have parents' insights as well. Which schools are more progressive in terms of curriculum? Which schools challenge the children to think/explore whilst also having fun? Thanks so much!

[Mrs TP]

Primary schools are almost entirely catchment area admissions or where-ever there is space for in year admissions (i.e. not starting at usual reception age) unless you are looking at the private sector. Which area are you looking at specifically and private or state?

[goldilocks]

Would echo above. With a 7 yr old and 5 year old you would be looking at in year admissions this year - which would mean that you'd be limited to those schools with spaces so would be worth calling Southwark to see how you find out and then asking for opinions on those specific schools.

In terms of others which may be full, you could go on the waiting list for any places coming up and then you'd be subject to the standard admissions criteria whereby when a place comes up the list would be reviewed for the person highest up according to that criteria, which may or may not be you.

[goosegreenpta]

Hi there

We at Goose Green Primary School like to think we are a progressive bunch! The school has a lovely feel to it and is nurturing and creative, whilst striving to gain the best from each child. The parent body is very involved and we have a great community and a number of local supporters. Our community events are always popular and have a great buzz. We have wonderful art and music departments and an array of after school activities ranging from taekwondo to dance to steel pans to French Club!

The best way to find out about whether the school is a good fit for your family is to come along to one of our open days / parent tours (we host one a month). After meeting the head and looking around the school, prospective parents have tea and a chat with members of FOGGS (Friends of Goose Green School - our PTA). That is a great chance to ask questions. We also invite prospective parents to join us at our events. We have Christmas Carols on the Green coming up on 15th December 6-8pm. Again, it would give you the opportunity to see what we're like (and enjoy some mulled wine)!

Of course, coming from abroad, you may not be able to pop in for any of these times, so do let us know if you have any specific questions or are visiting at any point and would like to take a look / talk to one of us.

Good luck with the move!

FOGGS