Are previous grades useful for school applications in London?

Are previous grades useful for school applications in London?

Your child worked hard to achieve their school grades before making the move to London – but will they be taken into consideration when applying for schools there? The answer depends on whether you want them to attend a state or private school, which have different entry criteria.

State schools

For entry into state primary schools (ages 4-11) and secondary schools (ages 11-16), previous grades are not considered during the admission process. This is typically based on criteria like catchment area, cut-off distance, and priority for applicants with siblings already attending the school. Selective state grammar schools require students to pass an entrance exam known as the 11-plus to achieve a place.

Private schools

Private schools typically review a prospective student’s previous academic records, including grades and teacher reports, to gauge their academic abilities and consistency – the older the child is, the more likely their academic performance will be considered.

This dovetails with several other factors as part of the admissions process, including:

• Entrance exams: Private schools often require applicants to sit entrance exams, which typically cover core subjects like English and maths.
• Interviews: Prospective students often must attend an interview with the headteacher, a member of the teaching staff, or even a panel. The interview helps assess the student’s personality, interests, and alignment with the school’s culture.
• References: Private schools may request references from your child’s current or previous school. These provide insights into their character, behaviour, and overall performance.
• Extra-curricular activities: Participation in extra-curricular activities, such as sports, music and drama, might also be considered. Proficiency in a particular activity can lead to a scholarship or bursary being awarded.
• Personal statement: Older students may be required to submit a personal statement or essay, detailing their interests, achievements, and reasons for wanting to attend the school.

Sixth form colleges and further education

For entry into sixth form colleges or further education colleges (ages 16-18), previous school grades (typically GCSE results) are essential. Students must meet specific grade requirements for the courses they are applying for.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Do we have to apply to schools in our Borough, or can we apply to schools in other Boroughs?  It is possible to apply for state schools in other London Boroughs. Contact your local council to enquire. Some Boroughs will centralise applications, including those for other Boroughs, others will want you to make a direct application with the other Borough.
• Do state schools require previous school records? State schools do not require any school records, they are not selective and will take children purely based on their age, and the admissions criteria.
• Do state schools require entrance exams? State schools do not require an entrance exam, except Grammar Schools which are the only selective state schools. However there are very few of them in London, and they are heavily oversubscribed.

Consult with Simply London

Consult with Simply London for personalised guidance and support on school admissions. Using our knowledge and experience, we can help you navigate this process – whether you’re entering the catchment area lottery for a state school, or your child is taking a private school entrance exam.  Find out about our school search service and how we could help you by getting in contact today.

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Article Published 24th August 2024