For Entry in Year 7 2026 and Year 9 in 2028
11+/13+ Key Dates
12 May 2025 Registration Opens
Saturday 20 September & Open Days - book here Saturday 4 October 2025
Midday, Friday 17 October 2025
Deadline to submit supporting documentation including usual ways of working and/or educational psychologists reports. Early submission is appreciated as it allows our Learning Enrichment team time to plan the assessment day to meet all candidates’ needs.
Midday, Monday 20 October 2025 Registration Deadline
Midday, Monday 3 November 2025 Master’s Award Application Deadline
Thursday 27 November 2025, Skills Assessment, held at Thomas’s College various times throughout the day 8:45am-5pm
Sunday 30 November 2025
Before 10 December 2025
Deadline to take the ISEB (if relevant)
Invitations to interview emailed
Tuesday 6 January 2026, Interview Day various times throughout the day 8:45am-5pm
Various dates in early/mid Jan 2026 Master’s Awards assessments
Friday 13 February
Early March 2026
Early February 2027
Decisions emailed
Deadline to accept 11+
Initial acceptance of conditional 13+ place
Deadline to pay deposit to confirm conditional 13+ 2028 place
Welcome to Thomas’s College
Thomas’s College is a selective, co-educational day and weekly boarding school for students aged 11 to 18. Our main entry points are at 11+, 13+, and 16+.
Our vision is bold and future-facing. We deliver a genuinely unique curriculum that combines the rigour of GCSEs and A-Levels with our own forward-thinking qualifications designed to foster independence, creativity, and critical thinking - equipping students to thrive in an everevolving world. Critically students and families choose the qualifications that suit them, guided by our expert advice.
We offer more than just academic excellence: we offer future-ready creativity, based on a diversity of intelligence and radical new ways of learning. Our promise is a broader, richer education - one that is deeply personal, grounded in real-world experience, and tailored to the strengths and passions of each student.
Admissions Guide
AN ADMISSIONS PROCESS LIKE NO OTHER
REGISTRATION INFORMATION
While we recognise cognitive ability, we do not believe in assessing children through abstract puzzles and multiplechoice drills, nor in encouraging high-stress preparation techniques that feel disconnected from meaningful learning.
Instead, we seek out curiosity, creativity, and character. We look for potential – not polish – and value the many ways intelligence can present itself. Our goal is to ensure a fair, humane process that respects childhood and recognises each applicant as an individual.
As a selective school, our students are high-achieving – but not all in the same way. We build diverse, dynamic cohorts made up of thinkers, makers, performers, and problem-solvers. We assess holistically, and we carefully shape each year group to ensure that students with differing talents inspire, challenge, and learn from one another.
Families can register their child via the Thomas’s College website or directly via this form.
The registration fee is £200, it is non-refundable, and applicants will be asked to provide a scan or photo of their child’s passport. Non UK/Irish citizens must provide proof of their right to live in the UK or similar visa status.
Registration closes at midday on Monday 20 October 2025. Midday, Friday 17 October 2025 is the deadline to submit any relevant educational psychologist reports or ‘usual ways of working’ should your child require additional support or accommodations. Unfortunately, we are unable to sponsor overseas students.
AVAILABLE PLACES
There are 80 available Places in Year 7 2026 and 35 places for deferred entry into Y9 2028.
Families may apply for either 11+ or 13+ entry – not both All candidates are assessed during Year 6.
Families interested in a place in any other year group should contact the Admissions team. Should there be occasional places available, candidates will be assessed in Lent term 2026. Candidates will follow the same assessment and selection criteria as 11+ and 13+ entry, adjusted appropriately for candidates’ ages with decisions made before Easter. Occasional place candidates are eligible to apply for Master’s Awards and should speak to the Admissions team when registering to express an interest.
SHAPE OF THE SCHOOL 2026 ONWARDS
Thomas’s College opened in September 2025 with a total cohort of just over 300 students. For the academic year 2026-27, it is envisaged that the overall school will comprise approximately 450 students spread evenly across Years 7-13. For the academic year 2027–28 the School will total approximately 550 students, reaching its full capacity of 650 students from 2028 onwards.
SELECTION CRITERIA
For Entry into Year 7 2026 (11+) and deferred entry into Year 9 in 2028 (13+)
Our admissions process for entry at 11+ and 13+ is designed to be rigorous, fair, and child-centred. It comprises three interconnected elements:
Knowledge Assessment
Skills Assessment
Personal Interview
Together, these elements reflect the core values of a Thomas’s education: academic potential, playful thinking, emotional intelligence, and self-understanding.
KNOWLEDGE ASSESSMENT
Part 1
We assess academic potential using the most readily available methods: the ISEB Pre-Tests or CAT4 scores. This is intended to minimise stressful testing in multiple formats. Many applicants already have one or other of these scores when applying. There is no need for your child to take both: either are robust, reliable and indicative.
ISEB Pre-Tests
The ISEB Pre-Tests should be taken either at your child’s current school or a designated ISEB test centre before 30 November 2025. The ISEB Common Pre-Tests comprise multiple choice questions which are taken online and are age standardised. They take about two-and-a-quarter hours to complete (English 40 minutes, Mathematics 40 minutes, NonVerbal Reasoning 30 minutes, Verbal Reasoning 25 minutes).
Candidates must only sit the ISEB Common Pre-Tests once each academic year. If a candidate is sitting the tests for more than one school the results are provided to all schools to which the candidate has applied. The tests may be taken at a candidate’s school if the school are happy to invigilate the tests or at an approved ISEB test centre.
Further information about the ISEB Pre-Tests can be found on the following link:
ISEB | Pre-Tests (11+) Information for parents and families.
CAT4
If your child’s current school has run CAT4 tests from January 2025 onwards, you may prefer to rely on these scores to support their Knowledge Assessment.
CAT (Cognitive Abilities Test) scores provide insights into a student’s cognitive abilities and potential. Scores are typically interpreted by comparing them to a national average. The tests assess various cognitive areas, such as verbal, nonverbal, quantitative, and spatial reasoning. If you know that your child has sat CAT4 testing this year and their school is content to supply these scores on their reference, there is no need for you to do anything.
KNOWLEDGE ASSESSMENT
Next steps for parents
SKILLS ASSESSMENT
We will write to you to seek confirmation as to which cognitive test your child will undertake: ISEB Pre-Tests or CAT4. If your child will sit the ISEB, you will be asked to supply the ISEB code.
Following the closing date of midday Monday 20 October 2025, we will write to your child’s current school to ask for a Head’s reference and, if appropriate, CAT4 scores.
The Skills Assessment encourages original thinking and playful engagement with ideas. It takes the form of a one-hour paper with three open-ended questions – one each exploring:
• English
• Mathematical thinking
• Scientific reasoning
These questions are designed to showcase a candidate’s creativity, insight, and enjoyment of learning.
No special preparation is necessary – indeed, curiosity, reading for pleasure, and open conversations at home are the best ways to prepare.
A sample paper and mark scheme are available here.
Candidates who perform strongly in Parts 1 and 2 are shortlisted and invited to Part 3 on Tuesday 6 Jan 2026.
PERSONAL INTERVIEW
Character and values matter deeply at Thomas’s. In this final stage:
• Candidates complete a short questionnaire in their own words, designed to reveal their personality, passions, and interests.
• This is followed by a small group interview, where students meet each other and speak with a trained interviewer.
This is not a test of confidence or performance. Our process avoids favouring any particular personality type, and interviewers are trained to support students in being authentic and relaxed.
Discussion topics might include books (enjoyed or not), films, games, hobbies, or real-life moral dilemmas. There are no “right answers” – we’re looking for thoughtful, honest reflections and a willingness to share ideas.
OVERSEAS CANDIDATES
Overseas candidates should expect to travel to Thomas’s to sit our entry assessment on 27 November 2025. Candidates who perform strongly in Parts 1 and 2 are shortlisted and invited to Part 3. Virtual personal interviews may be arranged to prevent further travel.
11+/13+ Master’s Awards
11+ MASTER’S AWARDS –2026 ENTRY
13+ MASTER’S AWARDS –2028 ENTRY
Master’s Awards recognise outstanding promise and commitment in sport, drama, music, art and dance. Candidates are invited to submit a portfolio or supporting evidence as outlined below.
A preference for one or two Master’s Awards can be made after registration. You will be contacted by the Admissions team once registration has closed to confirm your preference. Candidates will be invited to attend a Master’s Award interview/trial/performance (as appropriate) at Thomas’s College in January 2026.
There are two levels of awards: Exhibitions worth £750 annual tuition fee remission and Master’s Awards worth £1,500 of annual tuition fee remission. The tuition fee is reduced by the value of any Exhibitions or Awards before VAT is calculated. Holders are expected to represent and support the College through their talents. Both levels of award are reviewed annually.
Candidates are welcome to apply for up to two Master’s Awards.
Candidates seeking a Master’s Award for 13+ entry into 2028 are welcome to apply now, or defer their application until they are in Year 7 or 8 when their submission may be more ready. Those 13+ candidates seeking to defer their Master’s Award application will be invited to submit their application in the Michaelmas term 2026 and again in Michaelmas 2027.
THOMAS’S SCHOLARSHIPS
Thomas’s Scholarships are awarded to those who excel in our selection assessments. There is no need to register to be considered for a Thomas’s Scholarship: awards are made automatically to the highest performers in a process that encourages a diversity of excellence.
The selection test itself discourages preparation and identifies exceptional ability and potential. There is no fixed number of Thomas’s Scholarships. They are competitive and highly sought-after awards that acknowledge the abilities and talent of students from all backgrounds.
Thomas’s Scholarships vary in value. It is likely that most will be between 10% and 30% remission of tuition fees.
Master’s Awards in Detail
Assessment for all 11+/13+ Master’s Awards will take place in January 2026. The deadline to apply for Master’s Awards is Midday, Monday 3 November 2025.
Stage 1
ART MASTER’S AWARD
Students applying for a Master’s Award in Art are required to submit a digital portfolio of a minimum of six individual pieces of artwork. Work should be no more than two years old and the candidate’s own. Students should demonstrate a range of materials, techniques and skill in their artwork.
The portfolio should include the following:
• 2 x Tonal drawings
• 1 Painting (acrylic, oil, watercolour, gouache, etc)
• 3 x Artwork of their choosing (Examples include: drawings, paintings, photography, animation, textiles, print, collage, photographs of three dimensional work)
Stage 2
Those successful at Stage 1 will be invited to meet with a senior member of the Art Department for an interview and discussion of their portfolio. Candidates may be asked to discuss the concepts in their work, the materials and techniques used and the successes and challenges they have experienced. Students should also share any artists or exhibitions that feel inspired by and how they see their artwork progressing as they continue their studies.
The Art Master’s Award workshop will be held in w/c 19 January 2026.
DANCE MASTER’S AWARD
Dance has been part of the Thomas’s curriculum since Joanna and David Thomas founded our first Thomas’s prep school in 1971. Dance offers a unique combination of physical, mental, and social benefits. Dance enhances physical fitness, promotes mental well-being, and fosters social connections.
Stage 1
Candidates will be asked to submit footage of a prepared and performed solo piece that candidates have learnt or choreographed of approximately 1 minute 30 in length, and no more than 2 minutes.
Stage 2
Candidates who are successful at Stage 1 will be invited to meet a senior Dance teacher for an interview and discussion. Candidates will be asked to outline their reasons for applying, their suitability for the Award, commitment to Dance, understanding of Dance and their Dance interests or inspiration.
The Dance Master’s Award Stage 2 will be assessed on the morning of Tuesday 20 January 2026.
Stage 1
DRAMA MASTER’S AWARD
Candidates will be asked to submit a recording of two contrasting monologues. The role can be any gender but the themes and characters need to be different to allow the candidate to demonstrate varying skills. Each monologue should be approximately 1 minute in length.
Stage 2
Candidates will meet with senior members of the Drama department for an interview and discussion. This will allow the candidate to outline their motivation, artistic intention for their monologue choice, involvement in current productions, vocal range and physical skills.
The Drama Master’s Award Stage 2 will be held in w/c 19 January 2026.
MUSIC MASTER’S AWARD
Music Master’s Awards are granted to those who play an orchestral or keyboard instrument to grade 5 standard. A second instrument to grade 3 standard is desirable. Separate vocal awards are also available and a grade 5 standard is required.
Stage 1
Pre-auditions take place in November 2025 with the Director of Music, or alternatively a video can be submitted. Two contrasting pieces on the first study instruments are expected with one piece on any further disciplines. Successful candidates will then be invited to attend Stage 2.
Stage 2
This takes place in the final week of January 2026. Again, two contrasting pieces on the first study instrument, and one piece on any other instruments are desirable.
The interview with the Director of Music will also include sight reading on their first study instrument, ear tests and a general discussion about how they would contribute to the musical life of the Music School.
SPORT MASTER’S AWARD
Candidates may apply for a Single Sport Master’s Award. It is likely they are playing (or have the potential to compete) at region, county or country level in one of Thomas’s major sports.
Or candidates can apply for an ‘All Rounder’ Sport Master’s Award. Candidates are likely to be playing ‘A’ team level or equivalent in 3 of Thomas’s major sports.
Stage 1
Candidates are required to complete and submit a written application form where they outline their skill level, contribution, commitment and match experience (if relevant). All written applications will be reviewed.
Stage 2
Successful candidates will be invited to meet with the Director of Sport. Candidates will be expected to speak confidently about their sporting experiences, dedication, and enthusiasm.
The Sport Master’s Award Stage 2 will be held in w/c 19 January 2026.
Thomas’s Major Sports
11+/13+ Boys: Rugby | Football | Hockey | Rowing | Cricket | Tennis
11+/13+ Girls: Hockey | Netball | Football | Rowing | Cricket | Tennis
Useful Information
CANDIDATES’ CURRENT SCHOOLS
We welcome applications from all educational backgrounds, including:
• Thomas’s prep schools
• Maintained and grammar schools
• Independent and international schools
• Home-educated students
All applicants are assessed individually. There are no quotas for students currently attending one of the Thomas’s prep schools.
SIBLINGS
Thomas’s College does not operate a formal sibling policy, as each applicant is assessed on merit. That said, we are a familyfocused school and take sibling relationships into thoughtful consideration during the admissions process.
OVERSEAS APPLICANTS
BOARDING AT THOMAS’S COLLEGE
The only family-owned boarding house in London
Whilst we welcome candidates applying from overseas, candidates must attend our Part 2 assessment held at Thomas’s College on Thursday 27 November.
Wesley South and North, the College’s two boarding houses, are newly refurbished and beautifully appointed. Boarders are able to access a shared Common Room as well as the facilities in College, including the library, gym and refectories. There are a total of 56 beds and the majority are reserved for weekly, Monday morning-Friday afternoon boarders. Weekly and flexiboarding is available to students in Years 9-13.
Boarders are supported by a team of boarding professionals and Sixth Form boarders benefit from greater freedom and responsibilities within the boarding house. Weekly boarders are assigned a permanent dorm in Wesley North (boys) or South (girls). Wesley is the perfect solution for busy London families and students who wish to prepare for independent living.
More logistical information about Boarding at Thomas’s College can be read here.
Fees & Finances
All tuition fees include VAT and are subject to annual review in Lent Term 2026 Updated figures will be published on our website.
Our fees for the academic year 2025-2026 are below:
Fourth Form (Years 7-8)
DAY FEES PER TERM
WEEKLY BOARDING FEES PER TERM
Fifth and Sixth Forms (Years 9-13)
Lunch (compulsory)
Fifth and Sixth Forms (Years 9-13)
Flexi-Boarding (1–2 nights per week)
£10,452
£10,923
£415
£5,105
£110 per night
Includes supervision, activities, overnight accommodation, and all meals (breakfast and supper).
Flexi-boarding is available to students in Years 9–13 and is ideal for busy schedules, early/late co-curriculars, or exploring full boarding.
SPECIFIED CHARGES
OPTIONAL
Specified Charges Public examinations such as GCSE and A-Levels are charged at the cost defined by the relevant examination board (not subject to VAT).
Other extra optional items (clubs led by a non-staff member, music lessons, expeditions and residential trips) will be charged in arrears at the end of each term.
BURSARIES
Whilst we build our bursary programme, we are not able to offer bursaries.
SIBLING DISCOUNT
Sibling discounts apply when multiple children attend Thomas’s London Day Schools concurrently:
• Second child: 1.5%
• Third child: 5%
• Fourth and subsequent children: 10%
Discounts are adjusted if a sibling leaves and the total number of enrolled siblings changes.
TRAVEL & TRANSPORT
We do not operate a bus or coach service, as the College is well connected by public transport. Richmond Station is:
• Under 10 minutes from Clapham Junction and Chiswick
• 20 minutes from Kingston
• 25 minutes from High Street Kensington
A fleet of electric shuttle buses runs from Richmond Station to the College campus, taking less than 10 minutes.
Years 7 & 8 + Year 9 College Entry
Families wishing to apply for a place in Years 7 or 8 at Thomas’s Battersea or Clapham, with guaranteed progression to Year 9 in 2028 at Thomas’s College, may submit a Dual Application.
• Candidates are assessed in Year 6 using Thomas’s College’s admissions process
Dual applicants are considered under the same selection criteria and timelines as standalone Year 9 candidates.
• A joint assessment is conducted by the College and the relevant prep school
To apply
Contact the Registrar at your preferred prep school before registering. Register with Thomas’s College and pay the £200 registration fee.
Upon receiving an offer, a deposit of £2,950 is required for both the prep school and the College.
