Senior School Entry

Entry to Year 7 (11+)

We have a two-stage process for entry at Year 7:  all candidates attend our 11+ assessment day, after which a number of candidates are called back for interview.

Entrance Assessment Day

We understand that children arriving at STAHS for entrance assessment are likely to be nervous and may be sitting papers at a number of schools. With this in mind, we work to make the admissions experience as smooth and straightforward as possible. Assessment Day combines formal testing and a taste of a STAHS school day, with the chance to meet our staff and pupils. Candidates sit the Independent Schools Examinations Board (ISEB) Common Pre-Test, along with a written communications task, experience a taster Senior School lesson and take part in educational team activities. Assessment Day is around the length of a normal school day, with break times, lunch and refreshments provided. Some candidates will be able to take the test at their own school if it acts as an invigilation centre for the Common Pre-Test; where this happens, children will be with us for around half a day for the other elements of Assessment Day.

STAHS is among a number of leading independent schools using the Common Pre-Test to assess applicants. The tests are taken online and consist of multiple-choice tests in Mathematics, English, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning. No special preparation is required for the tests. Results are age-standardised to adjust for the age of the child taking the test.

Practice tests are not available, but examples and practice questions, where relevant, are provided during the tests so that candidates understand what they have to do and a ISEB Walkthrough is available that demonstrates the look and feel of the tests. STAHS offers two optional 11+ Taster Days to help pupils understand what to expect on Assessment Day, take part in a range of activities and get to know the School. Information on how to book these is sent to those who have completed the Application Form.

Further information for candidates is in our STAHS Assessment Guide below.

Interviews

Following Assessment Day, a number of pupils will be invited back to STAHS for interview. Interviews are with senior members of staff. No preparation is required. Interview sessions are a relaxed and enjoyable experience, with pupils taking part in stimulating group activities whilst they are with us. At the same time, parents have the opportunity to meet individually with our Head and Deputy Heads. The meetings are purely for parents’ benefit and form no part of the assessment process for pupils.

To apply for a place for your child at the Senior School please complete the Application Form, electronically using the link below. Your application is confirmed by paying a non-refundable registration fee of £125.  If you are on a low income and applying for bursary support we may be able to waive the application fee – please contact us for details.

The admissions process is kept under review and may be adapted according to circumstances at the time.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY FOR A PLACE AT STAHS

PLACES FOR YEAR 7 IN SEPTEMBER 2024.

We have completed our admissions for Year 7 entry in September 2024. If you are interested in joining our waiting list for assessment should any places become available at a late stage, please contact us at admissions@stahs.org.uk

CLICK HERE TO APPLY FOR A PLACE AT STAHS