FAQ
How difficult is the entrance exam?
The School sets the exam to assess whether the pupil would be able to cope with the standard and pace of work. Bright boys who are working at a standard of National Curriculum Level 4 or above are often likely to secure a place here.
What is the difference between a scholarship and a bursary?
Scholarships are offered to boys with considerable talent and are awarded on academic merit, artistic or musical ability whereas a bursary is awarded based on financial need. Pupils who get the highest marks in the entrance exam are invited to return for a scholarship interview. Music, art and all-rounder awards are also available. A bursary is based on financial need and is subject to means testing. Parents will need to complete an application for financial support.
Are the majority of boys joining the senior school from the Junior School?
No, at 11 approximately 60% of the boys come from a huge variety of schools.
When should I apply to the school?
There is no absolute deadline for applications and many parents apply well in advance of their son sitting the exam. We would recommend applying by the October of the year before entrance, as examination details are sent out in the November before the January examination.
Do you offer any flexible boarding arrangements?
Whilst the majority of boarders are full boarders we do also offer day boarding and weekly boarding (boys go home on Friday after school for the weekend). We may also be able to offer boys flexible boarding, if for example, you are going away for a short time and would like us to provide accommodation for your son. In addition early breakfasts, from 7.30am, can be provided on a daily or ad hoc basis.
My son has dyslexia, is any allowance made for this in the entrance exam?
Before boys with a specific learning difficulty take the entrance examination, we ask that parents submit the educational psychologist’s report and we follow the recommendations made in the report. This usually means awarding extra time in the entrance examination.