Initial Registration

The path to joining The Perse School in Year 7 or Year 9 commences with registration. During this stage, parents are required to upload the photo page of their child’s passport and a concise description, not exceeding 500 words, detailing their hobbies and interests. Additionally, the most recent school report of the prospective student should also be uploaded. The registration process is accompanied by an online card payment for the registration fee, amounting to £175. It’s essential to note that the form cannot be saved midway and must be completed in one go. Any special educational needs or disabilities should be declared during registration to ensure that the necessary adjustments can be made during the admissions process.

International Students

The Perse School primarily functions as a day school and does not provide boarding facilities. Consequently, applications from international students are only considered if they would be residing with a parent or legal guardian within the Cambridge vicinity. Before enrolling, parents must confirm that their child possesses the correct immigration status to both reside and study in the UK. The school explicitly states that they do not sponsor students under the Child Student Visa Scheme.

Admissions Assessment

Assessments for all pupils who have registered with The Perse School are conducted in the academic year preceding their potential entry. Importantly, no remote or overseas testing is permitted, making it mandatory for candidates to be present in person for the evaluation. These entrance assessments are holistic and involve a blend of tests, a group activity, and an informal interview with a Perse educator, where students discuss their passions and interests. A student’s enthusiasm for the school’s extra-curricular activities and their alignment with the institution’s values play a pivotal role in the selection procedure. For those aiming for entry in September 2024, the entrance assessments are scheduled for Saturday, 13 January 2024.

Entrance Exams Overview

The entrance tests, crafted to assess a wide range of abilities, include papers in English, Maths, and Verbal Reasoning. Year 9 candidates are also evaluated through an additional humanities paper. While these tests are designed to challenge the candidates, The Perse School ensures that they remain accessible to all, without necessitating prior preparation or revision. The school offers sample papers, primarily for illustrative purposes, giving a general idea of the format and standards. No other sample papers are accessible, and no further practice is recommended. Detailed insights on the English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning, and Humanities papers are provided on the school’s website.

Subsequent Steps

Once the entrance assessments conclude, all candidates are informed about the results in early February. Successful candidates are then given a deadline, extending till early March, to confirm their acceptance.

Fees Structure

The Perse School’s fee structure is transparent and well-detailed. For every term, the fee stands at £7,061, leading to an annual cost of £21,183. An additional lunch charge of £338 per term is also applicable. While lunch is compulsory for students in Years 7 and 8, from Year 9 onwards, students have the flexibility to bring their packed lunch. Opting out of the school lunch post Year 8 requires a term’s notice. A comprehensive breakdown of what the fees encompass can be accessed through the provided link on the school’s website. Furthermore, the registration fee for Years 7 to 11 is set at £175. Depending on nationality, the Securing and Induction Fee varies, with British and Irish nationals paying £650 and non-British or Irish nationals paying £795.

Entrance Exam Details

English: The English paper, lasting 30 minutes, evaluates students based on their creative response to a given passage. Year 7 candidates are presented with a short passage, while Year 9 candidates’ tasks correlate with materials shared in the humanities paper. The paper’s primary aim is to assess understanding, writing ability, and creativity. Maths: This 30-minute non-calculator paper is constructed to evaluate reasoning, problem-solving, comprehension, and foundational fluency. The syllabus is grounded in the National Curriculum up to Year 5 for 11+ entrants and up to Year 7 for 13+ entrants. Verbal Reasoning: With a duration of 30 minutes, this test covers a variety of verbal reasoning questions. It’s important to note that no sample papers for this section are provided by the school. Humanities (Year 9 candidates only): This 30-minute evaluation is not strictly subject-specific but tests relevant skills linked to humanities subjects in the curriculum. The paper gauges skills like comprehension, inference, data interpretation, and reasoning.

Additional Information

It’s crucial for parents and candidates to understand that the entrance tests are designed to identify potential rather than rote-learned knowledge. The school takes special care to ensure that all candidates, regardless of their educational background, find the tests approachable. Special adjustments based on declared educational needs or disabilities are made to create a level playing field for all aspirants.

Decisions and Offers

Upon conclusion of the entrance assessments and evaluations, The Perse School communicates the results to the candidates by early February. Those selected are then presented with an offer, which they must accept by the stipulated deadline in early March. This acceptance often involves the completion of necessary documentation and payment of specified fees.

Starting the Journey at The Perse School

Once a student has secured their spot, the school ensures a smooth transition. Students and their families are acquainted with the school’s ethos, values, and routines. An induction day is usually scheduled before the commencement of the academic term, providing an excellent opportunity for new entrants to familiarize themselves with their peers, teachers, and the school environment. This induction also aids in quelling any initial apprehensions, ensuring that students commence their Perse journey with enthusiasm and confidence.

Maximizing Your Admission Chances with Beyond Tutors

The quest for a spot at renowned institutions like The Perse School, Cambridge, is undoubtedly competitive. Given the comprehensive nature of the admissions process, a strategic and well-informed approach can significantly enhance a student’s chances. This is where Beyond Tutors can play an indispensable role. Here’s how they can assist prospective students in navigating the intricacies of The Perse School’s admissions:

Detailed Understanding of The Admissions Process

Beyond Tutors, with its seasoned team of education consultants and school admission tutors, offers insights into the detailed nuances of The Perse School’s admissions process. Their deep-rooted understanding ensures that applicants are well-prepared and aware of what to expect at every stage.

Preparation for Entrance Examinations

While The Perse School emphasizes that their entrance exams do not necessitate any specific preparation, familiarity with the type of questions and honing test-taking strategies can make a difference. Beyond Tutors provides students with tailored guidance to improve their problem-solving skills, especially in areas like verbal reasoning and the school’s unique humanities paper for Year 9 applicants. They can also offer valuable feedback on mock tests, ensuring students are at their best on the examination day.

Personal Statement and Interests Articulation

The application requires a brief outline of the candidate’s hobbies and interests. Crafting a compelling statement that resonates with the school’s ethos and showcases a student’s uniqueness can be challenging. Beyond Tutors aids students in articulating their passions, achievements, and aspirations in a manner that aligns with The Perse School’s values and expectations.

Assistance with Special Educational Needs Declaration

The Perse School, in line with its inclusive ethos, makes provisions for students with special educational needs or disabilities. Beyond Tutors assists families in understanding these provisions and ensures that all necessary declarations and documentations are correctly presented during the registration process.

Financial Guidance

Understanding the financial implications of a private education can be overwhelming for some families. Beyond Tutors provides guidance on fee structures, available bursaries, and other financial considerations, ensuring that families make well-informed decisions about their child’s education.

Post-Assessment Guidance

Once the entrance assessment is over, the waiting period can be anxiety-inducing for both students and parents. Beyond Tutors provides continuous support during this phase, assisting families in understanding possible outcomes and the next steps, irrespective of the assessment result.

In essence, Beyond Tutors acts as a guiding beacon, illuminating the path to a successful application at The Perse School, Cambridge. Their holistic support ensures that every student presents their best self, thereby maximizing their chances of joining this esteemed institution.