Return to UK- how to handle private school applications

[mumumum3]

Could someone help me navigate what seems to be a tricky schooling situation.

Dh and I just had our first baby. Previously lived in London but as of a year ago got posted abroad for a job opportunity for DH. His company is now asking when we would like to come back.

This is where it has become tricky for us. We are older first time parents and a little lost as to how to approach applications for primary school.

We know we want to go private not state. We aren't sure if we will be living in London again or moving out when we return. Ultimately we want DS to be going to full boarding after CE.

So when do you think we should come back so we have enough time to apply for schools that are good feeders into the public boarding schools?

Are there any primary schools where we need to register at birth ahead of application? I.e, DH is an alum of The Hall and we registered there but I'm just not sure of where else to look.

Thank you in advance!

Most of the 13+ senior school application deadlines are by the end of year 5. Pretests take place autumn term of year 6 after which time you have the interviews/assessments and then offers.
Ideally I would be back by year 5 to make sure the children are being adequately prepped for their exams at the beginning of year 6.
Hope this helps.

If you will be abroad for several more years then I would aim for entry at 7+ as this is a natural entry point for prep schools. It would mean that he would join with several other children and it should, in theory, be a smoother transition. 7+ places can be competitive though, particularly so in London, so you would need to be on the ball with preparing him.

Have a look at Lambrook - most head to boarding school at 13, has a bus route from Chiswick, and entry at nursery level and reception doesn’t require a test (although they do meet with your child to see if there is a good “fit”). Also has boarding which as your son gets older might be a good idea to build up a few flexi nights here and there in preparation of moving to his CE school. Their website actually gives you a good idea of what timings work with each entry point too.

@mumumum3 , if you're considering coming back to Hampstead for The Hall, then you may want to look at Lyndhurst House. It's more relaxed than The Hall, although it's quite a monied international parent body. My friends' sons have been very happy there, and have gone onto some great schools including boarding schools in London, and outside. Check with admissions, but boys used to be able to join from Yr2.

Dulwich prep has intakes at 3, 4 and 7 years old.

At 13 it sends large numbers of boys to London boarding schools such as Dulwich College and Westminster as well as Eton, Winchester and Seven Oaks. www.dulwichpreplondon.org/prep/academic-results/

You need to register the autumn before the school year you are aiming for and admission is by assessment rather than first come first serve.

Check King's House in Richmond, The Mall in Twickenham and Tower House nearer Putney/Sheen/Barnes area. All good feeders to 13+ although The Mall I think it is changing to 11+ only