Antonia Constantin Year 9 Parent & PTA

Life is a series of steps into the unknown. Some decisions feel light and instinctive, while others come heavy with doubt and fear, their outcomes uncertain. Choosing Chiswick School was one of those weighty moments for me and my daughter, Amelia—a decision made at a time when change still felt overwhelming. And yet, looking back, it’s clear it was one of the best decisions we’ve ever made.

I remember the day I stood before Miss Woods, the headteacher of Strand on the Green. Year 6 was coming to an end, and I was filled with anxiety about what lay ahead. Amelia and I had already weathered our share of storms, and the thought of entering a new phase—new school, new people—felt daunting. This is where she will find her “tribe”, Miss Woods said, with a confidence that caught me off guard. I wanted to believe her, but part of me was still afraid. Now, I see how right she was.

At Chiswick, Amelia has found her place. She is part of the Performing Arts club (drama rooms is like a second home for her), she is serving on the student council, she is taking part in initiatives like Carnegie Shadowing. She’s found a rhythm to her days that makes her light up in a way I hadn’t imagined. But it’s not just about what she’s doing—it’s who she’s becoming. She is confident, engaged, and very happy.

What I didn’t expect was how much this choice would change me too. At Chiswick, I found my own “tribe”—a group of parents and teachers who make the school feel like so much more than a place for our children to learn. It’s a community where we, as parents, can also find connection, purpose, and room to grow. Over two years on the PTA, I’ve surprised myself—taking on long hour shifts at the car boot sale, learning new things, becoming a trustee and making new friendships.

Chiswick School isn’t just a part of Amelia’s story; it’s part of mine and I will be  forever grateful for that. (Antonia, Amelia Hall's mum, Y9)