School Admission Process and Fee Structure
Securing a place at a prestigious educational institution requires a clear understanding of the entry requirements and the associated financial commitments. From rigorous entrance examinations to various financial aid options, the path to enrollment is designed to identify talented students and ensure a sustainable academic environment.
Admission Requirements
Prospective pupils are required to sit an entrance examination to qualify for admission. Most students take an exam equivalent to the 11+, a standard assessment used by many selective schools to determine suitability for secondary education. However, some students may take the 13+ equivalent, particularly those coming from local schools that provide education up to Year 9 (Year 3).
To support a diverse and talented student body, the school offers several forms of financial assistance. Scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, and in some instances, for exceptional skill in music, art, or sports. Additionally, means-tested bursaries—financial grants based on the family's documented financial need—are available to ensure accessibility for eligible students.
Fee Structure
The cost of education varies significantly depending on the level of schooling and the type of attendance. Fees are charged on a per-term basis, with distinct pricing for the Prep School and the Senior School.
For those in the Prep School, including Nursery and Prep day pupils, fees range from £3,200 to £4,500 per term. Day pupils in the Senior School are charged £4,900 per term. For students requiring residential accommodation, full boarding fees range between £9,700 and £10,600 per term.
| Category | Fee Range / Requirement |
|---|---|
| Prep School (Nursery & Day) | £3,200 – £4,500 |
| Senior School (Day) | £4,900 |
| Full Boarders | £9,700 – £10,600 |
| Primary Entrance Exam | 11+ equivalent (or 13+ for some) |
| Financial Aid | Scholarships & Means-tested bursaries |
Key Facts
- Entrance Exams: Primarily 11+ equivalent, with 13+ options available.
- Scholarship Types: Academic, music, artistic, and sports.
- Financial Aid: Means-tested bursaries are provided.
- Boarding Costs: Full boarding ranges from £9,700 to £10,600 per term.
- Day Costs: Range from £3,200 (Prep) to £4,900 (Senior).
Historical Regulatory Issues
In November 2005, the school was identified as one of 50 private institutions involved in an illegal price-fixing cartel. This arrangement, exposed by The Times, involved the systematic exchange of confidential information regarding intended fee increases, which the Office of Fair Trading stated was anti-competitive and led to higher costs for parents.
As a result of these findings, the school paid a nominal penalty of £10,000. Furthermore, the involved schools collectively contributed £3 million into an ex-gratia trust intended to benefit pupils who attended during the period of fee sharing. Headmaster Paul Smith stated at the time that the school had acted "unwittingly" during this process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exams must a student take to get in?
Most pupils sit an entrance exam equivalent to the 11+. However, those from schools that teach up to Year 9 may take the 13+ equivalent.
Are there scholarships available for non-academic talents?
Yes, while academic scholarships are common, the school occasionally awards scholarships for music, art, and sports.
What is the difference between a scholarship and a bursary?
Scholarships are awarded based on merit or talent in specific areas, whereas bursaries are means-tested and awarded based on financial need.
How much does full boarding cost per term?
Full boarding fees range from £9,700 to £10,600 per term.
What happened during the 2005 price-fixing case?
The school was found to be part of a cartel that shared confidential fee information to increase costs. It paid a £10,000 penalty and contributed to a £3 million trust for affected pupils.