How to choose the best Prep school for your child

How does the admissions process work?

The admissions process for some preparatory schools in the UK can be competitive; it’s therefore really important to understand each school’s entrance requirements. The first step is to research the school’s application deadlines and dig out any necessary documents. Most prep schools except to receive forms which detail your child’s current school academic records and extracurricular interests. Secondly, make sure you familiarise yourself with any entrance exams or interviews that are expected to be taken as part of the process.

When are the entry points?

Entry points are named as such because they represent specific times when a child normally starts their education at a prep school. Common entry points for prep schools include those at ages 4, 7, and 11. It is also sometimes possible, depending on the school, to start at a different time, such as age 8 or 9. These latter entry points are usually termed an ‘occasional place’.

What is the significance of the 7 Plus?

The 7 Plus is an important entrance exam for prep schools that accept students at age 7, or into Year 3. This exam utilises papers or short assessments in mathematics, English, and reasoning. Some prep schools will also evaluate your child’s behaviour and their learning potential through interviews or group assessments. Tuition is available from specialist 7+ tutors who have extensive experience working towards the aim of Year 3 entry.

Understanding the 11 Plus selection

The 11 Plus exam is an entrance test for those prep schools who also admit students at age 11 into the final two years of the school, Years 7 and 8. Entering into a prep school at this stage would usually involve a conversation about future plans for senior schools, which start at age 13 or Year 9. The 11+ is generally going to cover subjects like English, maths, verbal reasoning, and non-verbal reasoning. Some schools will also include a second stage with further papers and an interview or group assessment. As with 7+, specialist tuition is available for this entry point.

How important are academic results?

Academic results are important when choosing a prep school, but it may be more important to check the destination schools which pupils go to after attending the school. It is also important to consider the extra support your child may receive at a prep school to achieve their aims.

What about pastoral care and support?

Pastoral care is an important part of any child’s personal development. It’s crucial to ask how the prep school supports the child’s emotional and social growth, which, alongside academics, is so important. Prep schools may provide counselling services, mentoring schemes, and programmes which promote resilience in mental health. Schools which have these strong pastoral and safeguarding systems ensure that children thrive on both an academic and personal level.

Considering destination schools

As stated above, it is important to consider a prep school’s track record in sending its pupils to reputable secondary schools, both local and national. If you are aiming for a specific senior school for your child, ask about success rates. If you are looking to move your child to state grammar education following prep school education, you need to know the success rate at 11+. You may also be interested in scholarships which have been achieved to senior schools. Whatever you’re looking for, there will be a prep school which can provide the perfect education for your child.

Resources for Further Reading:

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1. Choosing the right prep school
2. Find a prep school

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