This is a really interesting thread to me, as we felt exactly the same when looking last year (although with Southend as our alternative choice, rather than CRG).
Just got a feeling on the KEGS Open Day that it was focussed at the parents, not the kids, and all about academia, homework and pushing the boys - which is wonderful for many kids/families but probably not our DS. Whereas Southend was much more rounded.
I know a former Southend teacher, who loved the school, who said the difference is KEGS is aimed at top 2% whereas Southend is aimed at top 10% (and I guess Colchester somewhere in-between) which is is something to consider where you honestly think your son sits.
Travel is also a big issue, as like the OP we live in Chelmsford.
Whatever your choice, from these threads and people I know with kids at all grammars - everyone loves them all and you can't really go wrong!
Currently my DS has been accepted at Southend, and fourth on the waiting list for KEGS, so we are actually seeing both again just in case he has to make the choice.
Just got a feeling on the KEGS Open Day that it was focussed at the parents, not the kids, and all about academia, homework and pushing the boys - which is wonderful for many kids/families but probably not our DS. Whereas Southend was much more rounded.
I know a former Southend teacher, who loved the school, who said the difference is KEGS is aimed at top 2% whereas Southend is aimed at top 10% (and I guess Colchester somewhere in-between) which is is something to consider where you honestly think your son sits.
Travel is also a big issue, as like the OP we live in Chelmsford.
Whatever your choice, from these threads and people I know with kids at all grammars - everyone loves them all and you can't really go wrong!
Currently my DS has been accepted at Southend, and fourth on the waiting list for KEGS, so we are actually seeing both again just in case he has to make the choice.
Statistics: Posted by siro157 — Tue Jul 02, 2024 9:03 pm