Newton Prep place… where should we live? Post Reply

[vmreboll]

Good Monday to you all!

We’re relocating to London in July/august. Our boys have been offered places at Newton Prep, which we really like (even though our first option is Thomas’s Clapham, but we will know in April if they got places. In the meantime, we’ve had to pay the deposit for NP ). Anyways, NP families, whereabouts in the area do you live? How’s the commute? We would love walking distance, but don’t like the Battersea area that much. Any input will be really much appreciated. We’re planning to rent for a few years before buying a house.

Thank you!

[Cinderalla]

Hi! Battersea includes much of Clapham and you will find lots of families in the Clapham area as well as Fulham, Chelsea and further afield. We looked at it and it is a very impressive school. I had the impression that there is quite an international intake, ex-pat families etc. Not sure how many of these there are in the current climate but I think that you should be fine anywhere in SW London. 

[Batterseamummy]

My kids were at NP pre Covid but people would travel a long way for it. If you’re not keen on Battersea/Clapham and that typical south west London area then Lambeth is a great choice as it’s a very different vibe, really close to central London but easy bus routes to NP. Loads of families lived in that area when we were there.

[Josie84]

It’ll depend on your budget and desire to plant long term roots.. Clapham Old Town is equidistant between the two schools and has a strong neighbourly aspect so may be a good starting point. You could rent a house for around £5k/month and £900-£1,000/sq for if you’re buying. Between the commons has a similar feel and is walking distance to Thomas’. Similar cost of housing .
West of Battersea Park has some nice housing, similar pricing, closer to town, Battersea Park is nicer than Clapham Common but the area is less of a village. The. You have SW3 area which is more exclusive, arguably nicer architecture, around 50-100% more expensive, probably a more transient international culture.
Both schools are fantastic. Newton is more international and has a reputation for being academic and understated - it has single family ownership but still very much a business. Thomas’ also has an excellent reputation although some say the quality of teaching has dipped recently - it’s owned by an investment fund I believe. The parents are similar at both schools, or hard working, accomplished and diverse. Thomas’ might be seen as a bit more of a show pony.