Zoopie
I am a parent of one child at the Horniman and have a second who will start there in September. I am also a Parent Governor.

I can say quite categorically there is nothing going on at the school that I am aware of that needs to give you concern.

I think you need to form your own opinion of a school, not one based on gossip that is so far unsubstantiated and most likely out of date. If I can answer any questions you have then please PM me.

As has been said in this thread and others, all schools have children that leave, incidents that create gossip (yes even Fairlawn - shock!), and issues that they need to continually monitor and address. As has also been said Forest Hill does very well with a great number of very good schools about which we should all be very happy. You will find a great many positive comments about all of them on this site in the various discussions.

Good luck with getting a place at the school of your choice, or even the one closest to where you will live, which as Jane2 says would be even better.