As your child embarks on their Year 5 journey, it’s time to start planning their transition to senior school. For many parents, this phase can feel overwhelming with the sheer volume of information and deadlines. Read on for insights into the application procedures for a selection of top independent schools, ensuring your child is well-prepared for the next chapter of their academic life.
Why Start in Year 5?
Senior schools such as Eton College, Harrow School, and Winchester College require registration by the end of Year 5, and many initiate pre-testing in Year 6. Starting the process early provides ample time to explore options, complete registrations, and prepare for assessments.
Top Schools and Their Entry Processes
Here’s an overview of some renowned senior schools and their entry requirements:
- Eton College (Berkshire)
- Deadline: June 30th, Year 5.
- Assessment: ISEB pre-test in Year 6, followed by Eton’s bespoke test and interviews.
- Key Dates: Testing begins October-November Year 6; second-round tests occur in February-March.
- Harrow School (London)
- Deadline: July 1st, Year 5.
- Assessment: ISEB pre-test by December of Year 6; additional testing and interviews at Harrow in Lent Term.
- Late Applicants: Register by May 1st, Year 6, though spaces may be limited.
- Winchester College (Hampshire)
- Deadline: July 3rd, Year 5 (early registration advised).
- Assessment: ISEB pre-test in Year 6; interviews with Housemasters in Lent Term Year 6.
- Tonbridge School (Kent)
- Deadline: End of Year 5.
- Assessment: ISEB pre-test by December 1st, Year 6; creative group activities, interviews, and science practicals in Michaelmas Term Year 6.
- Wellington College (Berkshire)
- Deadline: June 30th, Year 5.
- Assessment: ISEB pre-test in Year 6; shortlisted candidates attend collaborative assessment days.
- Bradfield College (Berkshire)
- Deadline: Preferably by January Year 6, but later registration is possible.
- Assessment: ISEB pre-test in November Year 6; interviews and problem-solving activities.
- Bryanston School (Dorset)
- Deadline: Preferably during Year 6.
- Assessment: ISEB pre-test by the end of Michaelmas Term Year 7, followed by an activities day.
- Canford School (Dorset)
- Deadline: Preferably in Year 5 or 6, but later registration is accepted.
- Assessment: ISEB pre-test in Year 6 or 7, followed by assessment days.
- Charterhouse (Surrey)
- Deadline: September 30th, Year 6.
- Assessment: ISEB pre-test in Michaelmas Term Year 6, followed by interviews and activities.
- Cranleigh School (Surrey)
- Deadline: Preferably by the end of Year 5.
- Assessment: ISEB pre-test in November Year 6, followed by an assessment day.
- St. Edward’s School (Oxford)
- Deadline: Preferably before the end of June Year 5.
- Assessment: ISEB pre-test in Michaelmas Term Year 6, followed by interviews and activities in Lent Term.
- Marlborough College (Wiltshire)
- Deadline: October 9th, Year 6.
- Assessment: ISEB pre-test in Michaelmas or Lent Term Year 6, followed by interviews and group activities.
- Radley College (Oxfordshire)
- Deadline: Early registration by age 3 is encouraged; later registration closes in June Year 5.
- Assessment: ISEB pre-test in Year 6, followed by interviews in Lent Term Year 6.
- Sherborne School (Dorset)
- Deadline: Flexible; boys can be assessed in Year 6 or 7.
- Assessment: ISEB pre-test plus cognitive tests and group activities.
- Westminster School (London)
- Deadline: September 30th, Year 6 (preferred by the end of Year 5).
- Assessment: ISEB pre-test in Michaelmas Term Year 6, followed by interviews and further testing.
Understanding the ISEB Pre-Test
The Independent Schools Examination Board (ISEB) pre-test is a computer-based assessment covering English, Maths, verbal reasoning, and non-verbal reasoning. Many senior schools use this test as the first stage in their admissions process. Pupils typically take the test at their current school in the first term of Year 6, with results shared directly with registered senior schools.
Preparing Your Child
Preparation is key to ensuring your child feels confident during assessments and interviews:
- Academic Readiness: Encourage regular practice using platforms like Atom Learning or Bond 11+.
- Mock Interviews: Arrange for mock interviews to build confidence in speaking with unfamiliar adults.
- Visit Schools: Touring prospective schools allows your child to visualise their future and fosters enthusiasm for the process.
Balancing Choices
Many parents register their child at multiple schools to secure offers while deciding the best fit. Holding offers often requires deposits, which are refundable until specific deadlines. It’s wise to consult with your child’s current head or Bonas MacFarlane school advisor to align decisions with your child’s strengths and aspirations.
Notable Considerations
- Schools like Radley College and Charterhouse offer flexible registration but may have competitive late-entry procedures.
- International students may have bespoke testing options, such as subject-based exams in English, Maths, and Science.
Key Contacts for Support
For tailored advice, reach out to the Bonas MacFarlane school placement team.
Final Thoughts
The Year 5 journey is as exciting as it is pivotal. By starting early, exploring options, and leveraging resources, you can empower your child to embark on a fulfilling senior school experience. Schools like Eton, Harrow, and Wellington offer exceptional opportunities, and careful planning will ensure your child is ready to embrace them.
For more information, contact us (Bonas MacFarlane Tutoring +44 (0) 20 7223 2794 Bonas MacFarlane Consultancy +44 (0) 20 3900 2038) or contact the admissions offices directly.