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Mid Year Admissions

At Wandsworth Prep, entry to our school is usually at age three into Pre Prep Nursery or aged 4 into Reception. However, sometimes your child needs a change of school that can’t wait until September. At Wandsworth Prep we welcome mid-year admissions for families looking for a fresh start, a better fit or additional support. To help parents navigate the process we’ve compiled some frequently asked questions below. From setting in and catching up academically or being stretched to experiencing school life before committing. Read below how we make mid-year transitions smooth, supportive and successful for every child.

If you’re looking for a new school space, we welcome you to join our Head, Mrs Jo Pache, for a 1-1 to tour to discover what makes our school special.

Children joining the school in Years 1 to 6 are invited to spend a day with the class they hope to join. We are looking for potential rather than prior attainment. We seek children with enthusiasm for learning who will benefit from our broad curriculum and enjoy contributing to all areas of school life.

We want to find out as much as we can about the children who join us, and whilst there may be some emphasis on testing, taster days are designed to ensure that children will be happy in our learning environment. Following a successful taster day, we will then formally offer your child a place.

FAQ

What are mid-year admissions?

Mid-year admissions allow children to join Wandsworth Prep School at any point during the academic year, rather than waiting for the traditional September start. It is also allows children to join any school year (Year 1 to Year 6) for a September start. This is ideal with families who are relocating, seeking a better school fit or looking for a fresh start.

How quickly can my child join once we apply?

We aim to make the process as smooth and as swift as possible. Once an enquiry is made, our Admissions team will arrange a visit, request any necessary information from your child’s current school and organise a taser day. Places can often be offered within a short time frame, depending on availability in the appropriate year group.

Will my child receive support to help them settle in?

Absolutely. We know joining a new school can be feel overwhelming. Teachers provide close academic support and our pastoral care team ensures your child feels welcomed, confident and connected from day one. Each child is also allocated a buddy to help them settle in.

How do you help children catch up if they've been following a different curriculum?

Our teachers assess each child’s starting point and tailor work and support accordingly. Whether they need help building gaps, stretching their learning, or adjusting to a new curriculum approach, we provide personalised guidance to help every pupil feel secure and capable in their learning.

Can we visit the school before applying?

Yes, however we understand for those relocating it may be difficult. Families that are able can arrange a 1-1 tour with our head, meet the teachers and see the classes in action to get a real feel for school life. If you’re unable to visit the school in person we are happy to meet online for a video call.

We’re always happy to answer questions to help you make the right decision for your child’s education.

Can my child try a day at the school before we decide?

Yes. Taster days are available for most year groups and are a great way for your child to meet their teachers, make new friends and experience the school environment in a relaxed and enjoyable way,

The class teacher will contact parents beforehand to talk them through the trial day and address any questions they may have in advance of the trial day.

What if my child is nervous about joining a new school?

It’s normal for children to feel nervous but we try to make settling in as easy as possible. Taster days, buddy systems and personalised learning plans ensure children feel comfortable quickly. Many mid-year joiners tell us they felt part of the community within days.

How much support is available for parents during the transition?

The class teacher will call the parents to discuss the transition with the parents to address any concerns that they may have and to answer any questions. Teachers and parents also meet within the first few weeks of the child’s start to provide feedback on how the transition is going and it’s also a good opportunity for parents to ask any questions.

Parents are also invited to join the class WhatsApp group and are invited to school socials before they join to meet other parents.