Admissions FAQs

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.

We need to be sure that all pupils are able to access the curriculum, but within that, we welcome a broad range of abilities – there is no pass / fail mark in our assessments, and we are incredibly proud of the academic value we add to each student as they journey through the school.

Every child is wonderfully individual — and we celebrate those differences.  Abbot’s Hill welcomes pupils who are willing to try new things, challenge themselves and support each other, work hard and play hard, and make the most of the opportunities on offer.

What our pupils share is a hunger to learn, a desire to do their best, a curiosity about the world around them, and a willingness to become the very best versions of themselves.

All families automatically become part of AHSPA, our dynamic parents’ association. We have Class Reps who will ensure that parents are added to various communication channels.

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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.

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.

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

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.

We offer academic, music, art, drama, and sports scholarships at 11+ entry, typically providing fee remissions of around 10% and up to maximum of 25% for exceptional candidates. 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.

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.

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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.

We 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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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