Applications to schools

Registration to each school is important and most websites will have a downloadable version of their application form, alternatively, these can be obtained from their school office. Each school will have varying deadlines for applications and it is important to ensure you keep a record of key dates in advance and make contact with their school registrar so you fully understand each school’s admissions timeline. It is important to note that registrations for the majority of 11+ independent schools are during October and November, however, there are exceptions to this with some schools having earlier registrations than others.

The number of schools to which you will need to apply to will vary according to the nature of each school’s admissions process and we will offer advice during our meetings. However, where application to highly competitive London day schools are preferred, a greater selection of schools will be recommended.

There are no two schools with the same admissions procedure or set ‘benchmark’ for success so it is important to keep your options open. It is imperative that all of the schools on your list are schools that you are happy with, should your child be offered a place.

Common Entrance

If any of the schools to which you have applied are boarding schools, for which your child will need to take the Common Entrance Examination, the application must be registered through Orchard House by the end of November.

ISEB common pre-test

If your child is applying to any of the schools which will require him or her to take the ISEB computerised, common pre-test, this will only need to be taken once. Please let us know if this is the case. Parent’s register for these exams online.

Scholarships

Please contact the school office if you are considering applying for a scholarship for your son or daughter. Supporting references are normally sent directly to the school to which you are applying.