Insight Summer 2026

Bancroft’s School

SUMMER 2026 1

Insight | Summer 2026

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Bancroft’s School

Welcome to

"It's true, our pupils really do have it all."

Bancroft’s is a long-established 7 to 18 school with high aspirations for every young person in our care.

We believe pupils flourish when academic endeavour is matched by breadth of opportunity and first-class pastoral support.

Girls and boys from a wide range of backgrounds are welcomed into a warm, vibrant and supportive community, where they enjoy an excellent education.

Alex Frazer Head 3

Insight | Summer 2026

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Bancroft’s School

What we stand for Six values shape life at Bancroft’s. They provide a foundation for pupils’ learning and personal development.

Curiosity

Balance

Our community are encouraged to ask questions, think independently and engage deeply with the world around them.

Academic work sits alongside sport, creativity and time to reflect. Pupils learn how to manage all aspects of their lives well.

Kindness

Excellence

Kindness is at the heart of our school community. Pupils learn to treat others with respect, empathy and consideration.

Pupils learn to value rigour, consistency and high standards in all that they do.

Courage

Integrity

Pupils learn to embrace challenge, take opportunities and grow in confidence.

Developing sound judgement, personal responsibility and a strong moral compass.

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Insight | Summer 2026

Bancroft's in numbers

71%

ENTRY POINTS at

1150

PUPILS aged between

7-18

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HOUSES North, East, West & School

71% of all GCSE papers in 2025 were graded at 9-8

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75%

national award recognitions as WINNER OR FINALIST Approximately

20,000

223,704

BOOKS in our libraries

Nearest STATIONS WOODFORD

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CHINGFORD

75% of A LEVELS in 2025 were graded A*- A

Located on the border of LONDON and ESSEX with direct access to EPPING FOREST

TOTAL MEALS served per year

Bancroft’s School

95%

Over

100

of our Year 9 pupils participate in the DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S AWARD

Co-educational day School FOUNDED in

1737

PERFORMANCES across the school year

Around

320

pupils have L.A.M.D.A lessons

7600

240

611

496

ALUMNI network members WORLDWIDE

individual MUSIC LESSONS per week

More than

35

RESIDENTIAL TRIPS take place each year

CO-CURRICULAR CLUBS running across the whole school

pupils learning at least one INSTRUMENT

1,000

SPORTS FIXTURES annually across the school

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ACRES of playing fields

IN THE PREP SCHOOL...

96%

of pupils will play a FIXTURE in the 5 major sports a year

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SPECIALIST music teachers 7

Insight | Summer 2026

WHOLE SCHOOL

Awards and Recognition Bancroft’s has been recognised nationally for both innovation and pastoral care.

We are proud to see the efforts of our pupils, staff and families acknowledged on this national scale.

WINNER Pastoral Care Award 2025

WINNER Alice Rose Award for Innovation in Education

FINALIST London Independent School of the Year 2025

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Bancroft’s School

SENIOR SCHOOL

Results 2025 GCSE

A LEVEL

44% of results were graded 9

40% of results were graded A*

71% of results were graded 9-8

75% of results were graded A*-A

88% of results were graded 9-7

93% of results were graded A*-B

One of the top-performing schools in the UK

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Insight | Summer 2026

Our Sports Village WHOLE SCHOOL

Sport is a central part of life at Bancroft’s.

On site, pupils make use of the sports hall, gym, swimming pool and playing fields as part of both curriculum and co-curricular sport.

At West Grove, our dedicated sports complex, pupils train and compete across rugby, football, cricket, athletics and tennis. The site also includes a modern strength and conditioning gym, supporting performance and fitness across all levels.

For hockey, we work in partnership with Old Loughtonians Hockey Club, giving pupils access to high-quality facilities and competitive opportunities beyond the school grounds.

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Bancroft’s School

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Insight | Summer 2026

A Flavour of Clubs This Term...

Model United Nations Debate global issues and develop diplomacy skills.

DocSoc For those interested in medicine and healthcare.

Co-curricular life is a defining part of Bancroft’s.

Isaac Physics Club Advanced problem-solving for physics enthusiasts.

Competitive Coding Advanced programming and problem-solving challenges.

TechSoc Explore cutting-edge technology and coding.

Senior Robotics Society Hands-on experience in robotics and engineering.

With over 200 clubs and societies, pupils are encouraged to explore widely and commit to what interests them most.

Some deepen academic interests. Others try something entirely new. Most do both.

Here’s a small taste of what’s on offer:

SENIOR CLUBS

Headline Hustlers A student-run journalism and media club.

Geoguessr Society Test geographical knowledge in an interactive way.

Finance Society Learn about investing, stocks, and financial literacy.

Market Minds Discuss economic trends and market movements.

Economix Explore economic concepts beyond the classroom.

Film Soc Watch, discuss, and analyse films.

Micro:bit Coders Coding and programming using Micro:bit.

Animation Club Learn how to create animations and bring ideas to life.

Creative Content Club Explore digital media creation.

Sustainable Fashion Society Combine creativity with sustainability in fashion.

Rock/Pop Band Practice A space for musicians to collaborate and perform.

Cryptic Crossword Club Sharpen your mind with challenging puzzles.

Barbers (Vocal Group) A vocal group specialising in close-harmony singing.

IdentiTEA Discussions on identity, diversity, and inclusion.

Girls’ Voices A choir specifically for female voices.

Drama Society Explore different aspects of drama and theatre.

Bancroft’s Big Band Play jazz, swing, and big band music.

Classical Films Watch and discuss cinematic classics.

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VEX Robotics Compete in national and international robotics competitions.

Sinfonia A high-level orchestral group.

New Views Playwriting Write and develop your own plays.

Figure Drawing Develop artistic skills in sketching the human form.

Junior Trading and Investment Society Learn the basics of trading and investing.

Design Drawing & Sketching Explore technical and creative drawing skills.

Psychology Club Explore the science behind human behaviour.

Bio-Dissect Club Hands-on dissection for biology enthusiasts.

Aspiring Authors Club A space for budding writers to hone their craft.

Junior Science Club Fun and interactive science experiments.

Bancroft’s School

PREP CLUBS Arduino Programming Learn to program microcontrollers for real-world applications.

Jigsaw Club Explore big ideas and build teamwork through puzzles and games.

Street Dance High-energy dance classes blending rhythm, movement and creativity.

GCSE Physics Olympiad Training Preparation for competitive physics challenges.

Lego Education / BricQ Motion Learn to design, build and problem-solve using Lego and basic engineering principles.

Colouring Club A calm space to relax, focus and enjoy creative expression.

GCSE Chemistry Revision Support for chemistry students wanting to excel.

A Level Biology Revision Deep dive into advanced biology topics.

Weightlifting Club Strength training and fitness improvement.

5-a-side Football Fast-paced and exciting small-team football.

Senior Basketball Competitive training and matches.

Removes Indoor Cricket Cricket training in an indoor setting.

Swimming Club Improve swimming techniques and stamina.

Badminton Club Senior Squad Advanced badminton training.

Upper School Fitness Suite Open gym sessions for fitness and conditioning.

Warhammer Club A mix of strategy, creativity, and model painting.

Board Games Club Play and strategise in a relaxed setting.

Sustainability Society Engage in environmental initiatives.

CCF Training Teamwork and adventure.

Duke of Edinburgh Build resilience through challenge and service.

Girls’ Football for All Develop skills, fitness and confidence in a fun, inclusive environment.

Swim Squad Build strength, stamina and technique in the pool.

Chess Club Learn strategy, tactics and critical thinking through friendly competition.

PE Skills Improve coordination, balance and agility through structured sports activities.

Calligraphy Club Develop fine motor skills and artistic flair through beautiful handwriting.

Business Enterprise Budding entrepreneurs learn about money, marketing and teamwork.

Quiz Club Spark curiosity and quick thinking with fun general knowledge challenges.

Yoga Calm the mind and stretch the body with child-friendly yoga sessions.

Run For Fun Get outside, get active, and enjoy movement at your own pace.

BSL Club (British Sign Language) Learn the basics of signing in a friendly, supportive group.

Tap for Beginners & Improvers Step into rhythm with tap routines tailored to all levels.

Film Club Watch and talk about age-appropriate films that spark discussion.

Zentangles A mindful drawing activity that blends pattern, focus and creativity.

Lego Club Build, invent and collaborate with peers using Lego.

Football for All Fun, skills-based sessions open to all abilities.

Girls’ Rugby for All An exciting opportunity for girls to get stuck into rugby.

Rugby Build resilience, teamwork and game understanding.

Optional Swim A chance for pupils not in the squad to gain confidence in the water.

Cubs Join a community of young adventurers with a focus on life skills and service.

Nature Film Club Learn about the natural world through engaging film sessions.

Curve Stitching Explore maths through creative, thread-based geometric designs.

“Pupils have access to a diverse range of co-curricular activities” ISI Inspection 2025 13

Insight | Summer 2026

SENIOR SCHOOL

A Night to Remember Performing at Drapers’ Hall is one of the most special moments in the Bancroft’s musical calendar.

It gives pupils the chance to perform in a remarkable setting and brings the school’s connection with the Drapers’ Company vividly to life.

With around 160 pupils involved each year, the concert is a celebration not only of musical excellence, but of the enjoyment that music brings to school life at Bancroft’s.

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Bancroft’s School

ADMISSIONS

Music Award Talented musicians joining at 11+ can apply for the Drapers’ Music Award. Music Awards begin in September of the entry year.

Award holders will have the privilege of performing at regular award holders’ concerts and participating in enriching activities such as masterclasses covering various instruments, composition, music technology, and conducting. Award holders will also receive complimentary individual music lessons.

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WHOLE SCHOOL

Bus Routes Our bus service, running in partnership with Zeelo, has become a trusted travel option for families.

Pupils from Year 4 to Upper Sixth benefit from flexible passes and a safe, reliable journey.

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Bancroft’s School

SENIOR SCHOOL

BeingBancroft’s

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ity un

By drawing together academic and co-curricular learning, it supports pupils in thinking independently, making links across subjects and approaching ideas with greater depth.

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Physica l Ac tivi ty Creativity

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Now in its third year, our BeingBancroft’s educational framework continues to shape a more connected and purposeful school experience.

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Insight | Summer 2026

Adventures for All WHOLE SCHOOL

Trips are a hugely important part of life at Bancroft’s, helping pupils grow in confidence and independence through experiences beyond the classroom.

With opportunities for all ages and budgets, the programme includes local curriculum-linked visits, language exchanges, sports tours, Duke of Edinburgh expeditions, CCF activities and volunteering projects.

From Europe to South America, these experiences broaden horizons and leave pupils with memories, friendships and perspectives that stay with them long after the trip itself.

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Bancroft’s School

WHOLE SCHOOL

Essex Tennis School of the Year

2025 NATIONAL FINALIST

A wonderful recognition of a tennis programme built on inclusion, participation and community.

192%

growth in GIRLS' PARTICIPATION in lessons and competitions since 2012

200+

pupils attending mixed-ability clubs on a REGULAR BASIS in 2025

309

pupils took part in INTER-HOUSE TENNIS across 8 competitions

4yrs

of the Bancroft’s–Greenhouse TENNIS FESTIVAL with East London schools 19

Insight | Summer 2026

SENIOR SCHOOL

‘This is your Five Minute Call’ From powerful plays like Captain Corelli’s Mandolin to crowd favourites like Bye Bye Birdie, our stage never stays still.

Past hits include Oliver!, Bugsy Malone, Crazy for You and School of Rock - bold, brilliant, and full of life.

Next up: The Railway Children, a timeless family favourite set to take the stage this summer.

At Bancroft’s, every pupil has the chance to step into the spotlight.

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Bancroft’s School

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Insight | Summer 2026

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Bancroft’s School

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Insight | Summer 2026

WHOLE SCHOOL

A Different Perspective Bringing external speakers to Bancroft’s is vital for broadening our pupils’ perspectives and enriching their education across all year groups.

This year we’ve welcomed several inspirational visitors, including Old Bancroftians sharing their stories:

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Simon Singh: Renowned science author, physicist and BAFTA-winning documentarian

Joyce Efia Harmer: Author of How Far We’ve Come, on her journey to being published

Alex Yan (OB): Cambridge Mathematics graduate offering invaluable university insights

Dr Rioghnach Sachs (OB): Sharing her expertise on the ancient Greek poet Sappho

Bancroft’s School

SENIOR SCHOOL

Arkwright Scholarship Success A record-breaking year for engineering.

For the first time in Bancroft’s history, three pupils, Esha, Anjali and Luke, have been awarded the prestigious Arkwright Engineering Scholarship in the same year.

This national award recognises future leaders in engineering. Applicants undergo a rigorous selection process including a problem-solving exam and an interview with industry experts.

We are enormously proud of their success.

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Insight | Summer 2026

SENIOR SCHOOL

House Performing Arts House Performing Arts remains a cornerstone event at Bancroft’s year after year.

Speaking just a single line can spark a transformation in a pupil’s confidence, which carries through their entire school journey.

While the final performance always impresses, it’s during rehearsals where you really see these pupils grow. Yes, it might look chaotic from the outside, but isn’t that just part of the creative process?

The skills they gain through art and performance, whether on stage or behind the scenes, extend far beyond their school years, enriching many aspects of their future lives.

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Bancroft’s School

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Insight | Summer 2026

WHOLE SCHOOL

Outstanding ISI Reports Bancroft’s was found fully compliant in our February 2025 ISI inspection, recognising the strength of our education, pastoral care and the wider opportunities available to pupils.

Pupils are valued and supported

Effective preparation for their future lives

A diverse and inclusive community

Broad and ambitious curriculum

Calm and focused learning environment

Comprehensive careers advice 28

Bancroft’s School

SENIOR SCHOOL

University and Careers Fair This year’s University and Careers Fair brought together over 60 universities, employers, and training providers under one roof.

The annual event welcomed more than 260 visiting pupils from eight partner schools, alongside Bancroft’s own Year 11, Lower Sixth, and incoming Sixth Form families.

From medical schools to media firms, the fair offered pupils a valuable chance to explore future pathways, ask questions, and gain insight into life beyond school.

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Insight | Summer 2026

WHOLE SCHOOL

BeingBancroft’s Festival In the final week of the year, the whole school steps away from the usual timetable to take part in our BeingBancroft’s festival.

It’s a week packed with activities, community service, new experiences, exploring London, and it all wraps up with a music festival that has been known to sell out in just a few hours.

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Bancroft’s School

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Insight | Summer 2026

SENIOR SCHOOL

New Starts and Big Adventures We understand that starting Senior School is a big step, so we make sure new joiners feel confident and connected from the outset.

Early in their first term, our Year 7 spend a weekend at Hindleap Warren, taking part in adventurous activities and enjoying evenings by the campfire, helping to build friendships and set the tone for a positive start.

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Bancroft’s School

Beyond Bancroft’s 2025

2025

Popular Courses

Top Destinations

Economics

17

University College London

11

Computer Science

10

University of Warwick

10

Medicine

8

University of Bristol

8

Law

6

University of Cambridge

7

History

5

University of Manchester

7

Psychology

4

London School of Economics and Political Science

6

95%

progressed to the TOP 25 UK UNIVERSITIES

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SUBJECT AREAS chosen by 2025 leavers

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offers to CAMBRIDGE AND OXFORD

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CAREERS AND FUTURES sessions from Year 7 to Year 13 33

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Bancroft’s Prep

Welcome to

"Everyone has the right to be happy."

We take happiness so seriously that it is the first of our Bancroft’s Prep rules.

We are a proudly academic school, but education here is about more than results: it is about character, curiosity and a love of learning that lasts for life.

Above all, we want our children to thrive, have fun and leave us ready for the world beyond school.

Joe Layburn Head of Bancroft's Prep 35

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Academic Life PREP SCHOOL

Our curriculum offers genuine academic stretch from the start.

Pupils are expected to master the core curriculum while also encountering richer ideas, wider connections and opportunities to think deeply, work independently and enjoy the challenge of learning.

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Bancroft’s Prep

High academic standards

A broader curriculum

Pupils work confidently beyond national expectations in English and Mathematics.

Philosophy, Drama and Outdoor Learning extend our thinking beyond the core subjects.

Reading and fluency

Independent learning

Reading is embedded in daily life and forms the cornerstone of all learning, while building confidence and enjoyment.

Pupils think for themselves, reflect on their work and take ownership of their progress.

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Beyond the Timetable PREP SCHOOL

What happens beyond lessons matters just as much at Bancroft’s Prep.

With a wide-ranging activities programme refreshed each term, children are encouraged to try new things, discover fresh interests and enjoy school life to the fullest. The range is broad and deliberately inclusive.

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Bancroft’s Prep

On a Tuesday I can do Tap Dancing before school, Brass Orchestra at lunch and play football after school!

On a Monday I can play tennis before school, join Junior Orchestra at lunch and have fun at BSL for Beginners after school

I was also part of the winning national chess team!

On a Wednesday I can do The Daily Mile before school, sing in the Choir at lunch and learn Mandarin after school!

On a Thursday I can play chess before school, join Singalong Club at lunch and play rugby after school!

On a Friday I can play in the Senior Orchestra before school, attend Book Club at lunch and have fun in Film Club after school!

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Insight | Summer 2026

Creative Arts

PREP SCHOOL

Creative arts have a visible and valued place in prep life, shaping confidence, expression and enjoyment from an early stage.

Music, art, drama and performance are woven into both the curriculum and the wider life of the school, giving children regular opportunities to create, rehearse, perform and take part.

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Bancroft’s Prep

Letting our imaginations run wild Space to create A dedicated art studio and specialist teacher provide a strong foundation for creative development.

Curriculum drama Drama lessons help children develop confidence, expression and presence.

Music in school life Singing, playing and performing are part of the rhythm of the school day.

Performance opportunities The Year 6 musical, ensembles and productions give children regular opportunities to perform.

Speech and communication L.A.M.D.A lessons supports clear communication, self-expression and confidence.

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Insight | Summer 2026

Sport for All

PREP SCHOOL

An active and inclusive sporting culture runs through prep life.

Through Games and PE, children build confidence, coordination and fitness, while developing a lasting enjoyment of being active. Swimming, gymnastics, dance and net-and-wall games all contribute, alongside dedicated health and fitness work.

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Bancroft’s Bancroft’s School Prep

In Year 3...

In Year 4...

pupils learn the basics of teamwork, roles and game play across hockey, rugby, football, netball and cricket.

we begin friendly fixtures against other schools, developing confidence and a sense of competition in a supportive setting.

In Year 5...

In Year 6...

every child represents the school in each main sport, while some train and compete at a higher level.

pupils take on leadership roles and many go on to local, regional and national competitions

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Insight | Summer 2026

Care and Belonging PREP SCHOOL

Pastoral care is built around strong relationships, with the class teacher at the centre and a wider structure of support around every child.

Alongside this, House life, personal development and shared moments across the year help pupils feel known, included and ready to grow.

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Bancroft’s Prep Bancroft’s Prep School

A strong pastoral structure Personal development built in Children benefit from a Personal Development Programme, assemblies and visiting speakers, with topics such as online safety explored in child-centred ways.

Care in partnership An open-door approach with parents, pastoral evenings and support from the School Nurse all help children feel cared for and respected.

Happiness with purpose We have a simple principle at Bancroft's Prep - everyone has the right to be happy.

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ADMISSIONS

Scholarships and Awards

Bursaries

Academic Scholarships recognise excellence at 11+, while Music Awards support talented musicians at 11+ and 16+.

Bursaries help make a Bancroft’s education possible for families who may need financial support.

• Scholarship holders join Bancroft’s Scholarship Programme, a stretching programme of intellectual enrichment.

• Bursaries help ensure that able pupils can take up a place at Bancroft’s regardless of family financial circumstances.

• At 11+, all candidates are considered through the normal entrance process.

• Applications are handled in strict confidence and reviewed annually.

• Music Awards are available at 11+ and 16+, include free tuition on one instrument, and give award holders access to a wider programme of concerts, masterclasses and musical enrichment.

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ADMISSIONS

• A full bursary may also include help with uniform, trips, a loan device and public exam fees.

• As with all applicants, pupils must meet Bancroft’s academic entry standard.

Bancroft’s School

ADMISSIONS

Senior School Pathway Joining at 7+ means a clear route into the Senior School, with transition built in.

ADMISSIONS

Admissions Timeline Registration Deadline 1 December (7+ and 11+)

7+ Admissions Monday 4 January 2027 All children to attend Bancroft’s Prep School for Maths & Non-Verbal Reasoning Assessments Various dates in January Children invited in small groups to attend Bancroft’s Prep School for English Assessments • Pupils joining at 7+ benefit from automatic entry into the Senior School, without the need to sit the 11+ assessment.

• They are also considered for Senior School scholarships at the appropriate stage.

• A dedicated transition process in Years 5 and 6 ensures a smooth move into the next stage of school life.

11+ Admissions Tuesday 5 January 2027 11+ Assessment Saturday 23 January 11+ Interviews (by invitation)

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For more information, please contact the Admissions Team: admissions@bancrofts.org 48