Admissions

Welcome to Abbot’s Hill

Finding the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent. We understand that choosing an independent education represents a significant investment in your child’s future, and we’re here to help you discover whether our welcoming school community is the perfect fit for your family.  In an area of excellent independent and state schools, we believe Abbot’s Hill stands out for its relentless focus on balance, on ensuring that each pupil achieves the very best they can academically, but not at the expense of everything else.  Our school culture is collaborative rather than competitive, and our students leave us happy, well-rounded and confident, and most importantly, prepared for the next phase in their education.

Your Child’s Journey Starts Here

At Abbot’s Hill, we believe every child has unique talents waiting to be discovered and nurtured. Our Admissions process is designed to understand your child as an individual – their interests, learning style, and aspirations – so we can show you exactly how they would thrive in our supportive and challenging environment.

We pride ourselves on maintaining a welcoming, inclusive community where academic excellence goes hand in hand with personal development. Our pupils don’t just achieve outstanding results; they develop the confidence, creativity, and character that will serve them throughout their lives.

The usual entry points to our school are: 

  • Reception (4+) 
  • Year 3 (7+) 
  • Year 7 (11+)
  • Year 9 (13+).  

We sometimes have occasional places in other year groups and are happy to receive an application for a prospective pupil at any stage, and can facilitate starts mid way through an academic year, to fit in with family relocations etc.

You can find more information on our Admissions pages for each section of the school below:

What Makes Us Different

Abbot’s Hill’s dedicated teaching staff know each pupil by name and understand their individual strengths. With small class sizes, renowned pastoral support and a comprehensive co-curricular programme, we provide the personalised attention that helps every child reach their full potential. From our state-of-the-art facilities to our strong pastoral care system, everything we do is designed to support your child’s growth both inside and outside the classroom. At Abbot’s Hill, our students find brilliance in balance.

We also understand that it is not “just” your child who is joining our school; it is your whole family.  We are a happy, friendly and inclusive school that will welcome your whole family into our family.  Our Parents’ Association, the AHSPA, is a thriving  organisation dedicated to raising funds and organising a whole raft of social events throughout the year to bring our community together.

Your Next Steps

We’d love to meet you and your child, and show you firsthand what makes Abbot’s Hill unique in this area.  There’s no substitute for experiencing our warm, vibrant community atmosphere and seeing our pupils engaged in learning.

Ready to explore your child’s future with us?

  • Book a personal tour – Visit during a normal school day to see our pupils and teachers in action and to meet with our Head, Mrs Schanschieff
  • Attend our next Open Day – Meet staff, current parents, and pupils in a relaxed setting on Saturday 20th September – book your place here
  • Arrange an informal chat – Speak with our Admissions team about your child’s specific needs and interests and ask any questions about the Admissions process

Contact our friendly Admissions Team today:

We look forward to welcoming you to the Abbot’s Hill family!

Admissions Frequently Asked Questions

When should I apply for a place at Abbot's Hill?

We recommend applying at least 12-18 months before your child’s intended start date. Our main entry points are September for Reception, Year 3, Year 7, and Year 9, though we welcome applications throughout the year subject to space availability.  Prospective pupils for Year 7 entry will sit ISEB assessments in the November preceding their entry to the school.

What documents do I need to submit with my application?

Please provide a completed Abbot’s Hill Application form, and your child’s most recent school report if available, a copy of their  passport (or birth certificate if the child does not hold a passport), and the non-refundable Registration Fee (£120).  International applicants may need additional documentation confirming visa status.

What does the assessment process involve?

Our assessment is designed to understand your child’s potential rather than test specific knowledge. Prospective Pre Prep pupils typically participate in informal activities and observation sessions, while those looking for a place in Year 3 to 6 will sit assessments in Maths and English during the course of a Taster Day with us.  11+ candidates will sit the ISEB 11+ entrance examinations in the November preceding entry in September the following year, and attend an interview with a member of the Senior Leadership Team in core subjects and attend an interview.  Pupils applying for a place in Year 8,9, or 10 will typically spend two days in school during which they will follow a typical timetable for the year group, as well as sitting CAT Maths, English and Reasoning assessments.

Can my child prepare for the entrance assessments?

We encourage children to be well-rested and confident rather than intensively tutored. Sample papers for older pupils and guidance notes may available, but we are really  looking for potential and enthusiasm for learning rather than coached responses.

What are the school fees?

Current fee information is available here.  Fees cover tuition, most textbooks, and many co-curricular activities. Additional costs include lunches, music lessons, and some educational visits.

Do you offer scholarships or bursaries?

We offer academic, music, art, drama, and sports scholarships at 11+ entry, typically providing fee remissions of around 10%. Our bursary programme can provide means-tested support of up to 100% fee remission for families who would benefit from our education but require financial assistance.  Click here for more information.

What is your approach to pastoral care?

Every pupil belongs to a Clan (a nod to our Scottish roots) with dedicated pastoral staff who monitor their academic progress, wellbeing, and personal development. We maintain small class sizes and foster close relationships between staff and pupils to ensure individual needs are met.

What co-curricular activities do you offer?

We pride ourselves on our extensive programme of sports, arts, music, drama, and academic clubs. Pupils can participate in everything from lacrosse and netball to debating, Duke of Edinburgh Award, and volunteering, with many activities available at both recreational and competitive levels.

How do you support pupils with special educational needs?

e welcome pupils with a range of learning differences and provide tailored support through our Learning Support department. We conduct thorough assessments and work closely with families and external specialists to ensure every child can thrive academically and socially.

What are your school hours?

The school day typically runs from 8:15 AM to 4:20 PM for senior pupils (with the exception of Wednesdays when school finishes at 4:05 PM), with younger children finishing at 3:20 PM (Pre Prep) and 3:45 PM (Prep).

We offer supervised prep sessions and a wide range of after-school activities until 5.30 PM.

Do you provide school transport?

We operate a network of school buses covering key areas around the school.  Full route information and costs are available from the School Office.

What happens if my child has specific dietary requirements?

Our catering team can accommodate most dietary requirements, including allergies, religious needs, and lifestyle choices. We ask families to inform us of any requirements during the application process so we can make appropriate arrangements.

What uniform is required?

Full uniform lists are provided upon acceptance, with items available from our approved supplier. We hold regular Pre Loved uniform sales.

How can I arrange a school visit?

We warmly welcome prospective families to visit during our regular Open Days or to arrange individual tours. Please contact our Admissions team to book your visit – we’re delighted to show you around and answer any questions you may have about our school community.

Whole School Open Morning

Come and discover more about our thriving school at our

WHOLE SCHOOL OPEN MORNING

Saturday 20 September 9.30-12.00

BOOK YOUR PLACE

We are pleased to announce that, beginning in September 2025 our Pre-Prep and Prep School will be co-educational.

Find Out More