I have had 2 children go through Hornsby House and in my experience not a hot house at all.

It is a great all round school that encourages children every which way in my opinion.

Friendly and kind come to mind when I think back to my time spent there.. Strong academically but not a hot house at all.

That's really interesting. Would you describe Hornsby as a "hot house"?

We swapped our son to the White House School a couple of years ago and removed him from a ‘hot house’ school. He needed a more nurturing and supportive school and I’m so glad we made the swap. All the teachers are lovely, accessible and approachable - including the head. It’s a very caring, inclusive and kind environment where communication is key. My son has dyslexia and the school builds his confidence, while encouraging him and giving the support he needs. I can only hope his next school is as wonderful. Happy son = happy mum!

Do extended hours matter to you?
I think the White House offers after school care until 6pm whereas Hornsby only goes to 5.15pm

My son is in Year 2 at the White House and my daughter is at Woodentops nursery (part or the school). We could not have been happier with our choice. It is a school run by a family and it gives the feel of a family to its pupils, with the level of care and individual attention second to none. White House School is Balham’s best kept secret. Few know that it was named second best Prep School in London by The Sunday Times last year.

When my son was about to start Reception, we had offers from nearly all Prep schools in the area, but had trouble deciding. The very last minute we found out about the White House School from a friend and after a visit ended up choosing it for our summer born son over all other offers. Nothing can beat the attention children receive in small classes (about 12) and the level of connection the principals and the headmaster have with the parents. This was particularly evident during the lockdowns. Not many parents in the area felt such strong level of support and understanding from the school as the White House family’ parents did.

Last but not least, academically, it is exceptionally strong.

Good luck in your decision, trust your gut feeling. We did and never regretted it.

Both my children have been at the White House school since Nursery and absolutely love it!! My son is in Year 6 and (so sad he will have to leave to secondary school in September) I also have a daughter in Year 2 and not a day goes by when they are not excited to get to school. There is a great sense of community at the school . The teachers/Principals and Headmaster are all very approachable with an open door policy should you need to ask or chat about anything. My children have both done very well academically whilst both remaining well rounded individuals and involved in all areas of the curriculums. The school has been perfect for our children and us as a family.

My daughter has been at the White House since nursery and is now in year 2. The school has a great community spirit, and feels like a family school with everyone knowing each other. We love the small classes, with an individual teaching approach that have really helped out daughter thrive. Although it’s a small school there are still lots of opportunities for drama, music and sports. Our daughters confidence has really grown, and she loves school ..so it’s been perfect for us!

Hi - we currently have our DS down for both of these schools for reception and are currently trying to decide between the two. Does anyone have any recent experience of either to help us decide? Thanks!