11+ Programme
As part of the Hampton Schools’ Trust, pupils at Kew College Prep benefit from Assured Places Schemes, offering exciting routes forward to Hampton and Lady Eleanor Holles (LEH). An Assured Place allows Kew College Prep pupils to secure a senior school offer at two of the country’s most highly regarded senior schools, Hampton or LEH, without sitting the usual 11+ entrance exams.
We understand that some families may wish to look at alternative senior schools, and that families rightly want to ensure their child goes on to the school that is best for them. We maintain excellent relationships with a wide range of leading senior schools and our well-established 11+ programme continues to prepare pupils to apply to all schools with confidence.
Our nurturing and personalised 11+ programme begins in Year 4 when reasoning is introduced. It continues through Years 5 and 6 with specialist maths, English and reasoning courses taught by subject experts and dedicated Teaching Assistants. The programme is designed to support and guide children through 11+ exam preparation and interviews, as well as ensuring they are well prepared for life at senior school. Described by The Good Schools Guide as the “jewel in the crown”, our programme prepares children for entrance exams in a positive, encouraging environment.
Unique to Kew College Prep, children transition to their Year 6 teachers mid-way through Year 5, giving them a full year of teaching with these specialist members of staff and avoiding a change in teacher just before their exams. Year 6 teachers get to know the children very well and provide appropriate support, including optional extended days and after school lessons in English, maths and reasoning.
We have a broad and rich curriculum throughout the 11+ programme, including sport, art and drama to ensure a real balance of academic and non-academic pursuits. Once exams are over, children enjoy a comprehensive programme of lessons and activities, tailored to each individual cohort, to prepare them for senior school, including teamwork activities, and life skills. Over the past few years, we have included the introduction to languages such as Chinese, Spanish and Latin. We have also worked with staff from Richmond Borough who deliver a cycling proficiency and Junior Citizen Programme. Specific lessons on life skills such as road safety and being home alone as well as strategies to support them during their first few days at their new school, are taught alongside the Leaver’s Production rehearsals, which is their final opportunity to shine and perform on a professional stage.
Throughout the process, the priority for all staff is the wellbeing of the pupils. Children are taught strategies for managing stressful emotions, and our team build strong links between pupils, parents and teachers so that children are comfortable, confident and able to discuss any concerns.
