What type of school did you choose for your child?

I think private schools are best - not because I think the teachers are better - but because the classes are smaller, and children get more one to one time. I think location is also important. Travelling can be very tiring, especially for a child, and it makes things all the more difficult if they have a long way to go.

I wouldn't choose a grammar school because I don't think it is right that at the age of 11, children have to be tested to see whether they are 'good enough'. The whole point of school is to teach them, not to only accept those who are already doing well. The exception to this is when it comes to particularly gifted children, who need more of a challenge. In that case, tests from schools like Eton and Harrow can really help promising students excel.

by Bryony Harrison

Most private schools in my area have entrance exams - it's one of the reasons they appear to perform so well when compared to state schools, because they are selective in who they allow to enter. However, I can understand why a parent would still choose them.

Selective schools are another option.

by Vanessa M

My children are attending a specialist music school for musically gifted kids. It was a hard choice that involved auditions, a great deal of practice, and cost in lessons. It also involves travel because it is further away. However, I think it's worth it to nurture their musical talent. So, my opinion would be that you need to pick a school that suits your children's specific needs, whether specialist, public, or private.

by Lindsay Law

My sister is sending her kids to a public school at primary level. As soon as they reach high school - they're going to a private school. Personally, I'd let my kids go private all the way - when and if I have any.

by Justine Crowley

I'm one of those 'went to private school, sending kids to public school' people. I went public for primary, very happy with the school and eldest is at Selective state school - seems to be working for him. He does however tell me some horror stories that make me worry - not about anything happening to him, just all the wagging and bad kids doing stupid things (but they don't pick on anyone, they seem to do it to themselves??) Trying to keep a lid on it, but I do get moments of doubt about where to send the next high schooler when his turn comes.
I also like co-ed schools over same sex. But ask me again in 3 years...

by Lydia C. Lee

Grades I-IV, State Primary.
Grades V-XII, Private School.

That was OUR choice.

Private, from Grade I, if choice of School had it.

Mix with all types, that's both 'good & bad'.

Private Schools have 'more' of everything. As a friend of mine put it 'X (school name here) is a boy's heaven'.

I attended a single-sex Private School Grades I-XII, so our personal choice was single-sex, so children went to respective single-sex Private School's from Grade V.

Both have stated their appreciation of their good education since graduating, & both children now professionals' in their chosen careers!

So a few hundred thousand $$$$ wasn't wasted after all!

by donjo