[New] What parents say

How did you choose the school?

Sophie Matthews and her family were moving to the area and had heard “wonderful things“ from a friend whose children were at the school. Beatrice Mezza told Families they chose the school for her younger daughter because “we were very happy with our other daughter Laura’s experience there. We are now at our 9th year as RGS parents and couldn’t be happier.”

First impressions?

While Shona Kelly appreciated “the evidence of good teaching and progression through to high quality secondary schools “ Sophie said: “We felt the warmth of the school as soon as we walked in. It is such a friendly atmosphere. You can tell the children enjoy being there. It was so much of what we were looking for in a school for our children—somewhere that would unleash their potential and a place that they would be excited to learn. “

Why did you choose Redcliffe Gardens School, what gave you confidence?

“We were so impressed by the children at the school.” said Sophie. “Every child we encountered from nursery right up to the top year had a really charming confidence about them. They all looked so happy—that was most important to us. I think you learn a lot about a school by observing the pupils—how they are with each other and with their teachers. It was really lovely to see.”

What particular feature of the school do you like?

All three parents talked a lot about the teacher ratio being a huge draw. “It makes such a difference to our children’s development and progress” said Sophie. “Teachers can really focus on the child with an approach tailored to their needs” said Beatrice Shona really likes “The strong relationship between the teacher and parents.”

What is the feel of the school?

“It is so friendly.” said Sophie. “Nurturing but never at the expense of encouraging the pupils to fulfil their potential. It is such a lovely mix of focus on achievement without too much pressure and the teachers know the pupils very well. It’s a great balance. Beatrice agrees: “It gives off a sense of happiness and trust between teachers, school staff and the children. There are no cases of bullying, and being such a small school, teachers can intervene as soon as they see something going wrong.”

What is the school best at?

Beatrice: “The school is very good at teaching in a safe and happy environment where children aren’t afraid to make mistakes; the focus is on learning at the individual child’s speed, and there is no pressure to get high scores, but rather to learn from your mistakes. This is an effective method to build every child’s confidence, and by the time they reach year 5, they’re independent learners, ready to start the 11+ preparation process sure of their abilities. “ Shona agrees: “It’s about knowing how to maximise the child’s potential both academically and socially. “

Any moment that stood out for you that really describes the atmosphere/ethos of the school?

Shona really thinks it is the presentation of the Golden Awards. “It teaches the children the importance of achievement outside of academics, for example, being a good friend or caring about your community.”

Can you sum up your child’s school in three words….

Beatrice didn’t hesitate: The school is “Encouraging, challenging and motivating.”

Redcliffe Gardens School 47 Redcliffe Gardens, London SW10 9JH www.redcliffegardens.com

Part of the Godolphin and Latymer School Foundation, sharing knowledge and expertise in teaching and learning, pastoral care, 11+ preparation, school governance, IT and facilities.

Godolphin and Latymer School in Hammersmith is one of the leading independent senior schools in the UK.