Admissions

Our Admissions Process

“The SCHS Admissions process is quick, clear and well managed; a friendly, professional, and positive experience.”

Prospective Parent

SCHS is a selective school committed to identifying students who will thrive in our dynamic learning environment.

While the entrance assessment plays a key role in offering places and scholarships, we take a holistic approach that goes beyond test scores. Our goal is to nurture well-rounded, intellectually curious students who will thrive at SCHS, both academically and personally. Through our inclusive and thorough admissions process, we seek to admit students who will fully engage with the opportunities our school provides, from academics to extracurricular activity, ensuring they grow into confident, capable individuals ready to make a meaningful impact.

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Our EYFS (Nursery & Reception) admissions process involves an informal play-based assessment. For entry into the Prep school at Year 3, our Prep school admissions process (7+) requires pupils to sit written assessments in Maths, English (reading comprehension and writing) and participate in a fun and engaging team building activity. 

Our Senior school admissions process (11+) allows candidates to explore their potential and fit with the school. It includes a group problem-solving activity, a creative writing submission and the ISEB Pre-Test covering English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning & Non-Verbal Reasoning.

Our Sixth Form admissions process (16+) includes a formal interview with the Director of Sixth Form and requires applicants to meet the entry criteria of at least 7 GCSEs graded 6 to 9, including Maths and English, with a minimum of grade 7 in subjects intended for A-Level study. Applicants will also sit a critical thinking general paper. 

SCHS offers financial support at our key 11+ and 16+ entry points through both means-tested bursaries (covering up to 100% of fees) and a range of scholarships in academics, drama, music, design technology, art, and sport.

Scholarships are awarded based on talent, passion, and commitment, with specialist scholars expected to actively contribute to the school community. Importantly, bursaries are available to ensure that financial circumstances do not hinder a student’s opportunity to benefit from an SCHS education. This balanced approach ensures we not only select candidates based on academic ability but also recognise their unique potential and alignment with the school’s values. We aim to nurture well-rounded individuals who will flourish in our supportive and intellectually stimulating environment.