Westminster school

[MyFace]

I was looking at the Westminster school website the other day and noticed that I had to apply two years before entry, my ds is 10 would it make much of a difference if I applied later? I know there is a waiting list for this school and have to apply in advance but I'm not quite decided yet and would like to know if it makes a difference when I apply. Thanks in advance!

They run a "green light" exam in yr 6 to qualify you for their list. So you need to be registered in time for that exam. Only in exceptional circumstances (eg just moved to UK) can you join the list without having passed the year 6 test.

Oh right thanks for that meditrina You've been very helpful I'd better go fill up those forms just in case.

Or if your child is in state primary you can do an exam in Y6 for the Under School and spend Years 7 and 8 there before going to the senior school - then you don't usually need to register two years in advance, usually the term before the exam (must say I haven't specifically checked Westminster's terms but I don't know any 11 plus exam that requires registration 2 years ahead - usually only for Common Entrance).

He is actually in a private school at the moment, I would like for him to join the under school at year 7, I'm just wondering if I left it too late?
Thanks for replying singersgirl

Not sure if they take from private schools into year 7 of the under school, you need to check. I thought those places were saved for those transferring from the state system who had no choice of doing common entrance.

If you want to go for 13+ there is a pretest at year 6 in which they preselect the boys who are allowed to sit the qualifying Common Entrance exam (or scholarship exam) Registration needs to be early. St Pauls' closes their books in about year 5 but not sure about Westminster School.

Regarding 11+ entry. The exam takes place in January of Year 6 and registration closes around the end of the previous October. Yes, they do select a few children from private schools ending at 11 and occasionally from those who are at a 13+ school but that is an exception such as music scholars. The group of boys accepted for year 7 is only 20 so the competition is very high. Probably easier to apply for 13+. 11+ boys still have to pass the common entrance exams with the same pass mark (70%+) as the other Under School boys.

Thanks for replying lazymum and letsescape. I didn't know they didn't consider candidates from private school at 11, they don't say so on their website but it now looks like I'll have to look further afield. Anyone know of any other schools similar to Westminster that do take in children at age 11? Thanks to everyone for their help I knew this was the right place to ask!

Actually I've now looked at the website (curious!) and it says that they consider candidates from private schools that stop at 11.

Myface the general rule is that private senior schools will not take children from private prep schools that go to 13 because it is seen as poaching. If you son's school stops at 11 then they would be prepared to consider him.

Thanks! Chaz

My sons school does end at 11 which is why I'm looking elsewhere.

Does any one know, how many boys are taking the list test, for 2014 entry ?Thanks