How to Apply 13+
Joining St Margaret’s Senior School in Year 9
Whether a deferred entry application or for a more immediate start, we are happy to consider applications for entry into Year 9.
As an additional key entry point, we are seeing increased interest in Year 9 applications. But whether a pupil joins us at Year 7 or Year 9, the process remains the same, spend time getting to know us, visit often and be in touch if you have questions. We understand this is an important decision and will always be here to ease any concerns you have.
Visit Us
We are looking forward to meeting you
Nothing can replace that first-hand experience of visiting a school and if possible we would urge you to book onto one of our Open Days or 1-1 personal tours. We understand that choosing a new school is important and visiting is just the beginning of the process.
Registration
Complete and submit a registration form and fee
The registration form provides us with key information about your child, their current school and the proposed date of entry.
For deferred Year 9 entry candidates, we are happy to accept registrations from pupils in Year 5 upwards, with a view to an assessment taking place once they are in Year 6 or 7.
The deadline for September 2025 Year 9 registrations is 4 November 2024 with assessments taking place the throughout the week commencing 18 November 2024. The assessment for deferred entry applications that are registered by 4 November, will also take place throughout the week commencing 18 November 2024.
Assessment
Attend an assessment day and taster session
Following registration we will be in touch to invite your child in to complete an entrance assessment, attend a 1-1 interview and enjoy a taster session.
Both our 13+/Year 9 deferred and standard entry entrance assessment days normally take place at the end of November and all candidates that have registered will be invited to attend. For applications made after this, assessments will be held on an ad-hoc basis.
We will, at this stage, also contact your child’s current school to request a confidential reference report and school report.
Offers and Acceptance
How to secure your Year 9 place
Standard entry Year 9 offers are normally sent out during February and so that families are able to consider all options, the acceptance deadline is always set to be a few days after National Offer Day.
Deferred entry Year 9 offer letters are normally sent out within a few weeks of the assessment day and families will have 2-3 weeks to confirm their acceptance of a place.
A non-refundable deposit of £1000 (day place), £1500 (deferred entry place) or £2000 (boarding place) is required to secure your child’s place. This deposit (minus any costs that are still outstanding) is returned to you at the end of your child’s final term.
Preparing for School
Welcome to St Margaret's Senior School
Before your child starts at School you will receive our Joining Information Pack which requests detailed information regarding your child’s medical history, dietary needs, coach routes and co-curricular clubs. For those children joining in September during the summer term and beyond, they will be invited to take part in a variety of activities designed to smooth the transition to St Margaret’s.
