For entry to Middle Sixth (Year 12) 2026
16+ Key Dates
Monday 12 May 2025
Tuesday 30 September 2025
Friday 10 October 2025
Registration Opens
16+ Open evening - book here
16+ Registration deadline
Deadline to submit supporting documentation including usual ways of working, educational psychologists reports etc
Master’s Award application deadline
Afternoon, Tuesday 4 November 2025 Assessments – held on two afternoons, OR candidates will be invited to attend one
Afternoon, Thursday 6 November 2025 of these dates
Friday 14 November 2025
Monday 1 December 2025
Midday Friday 16 January 2026
Final day on which decision emails would be sent
16+ Offer holders event
Deadline to accept
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 recognise 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.
The 16+ Selection Process
Our 16+ admissions process reflects the maturity and individuality of students at this stage. It assesses knowledge, skills, and character – with methods tailored to older learners and designed to identify curiosity, drive, and potential. The assessment process comprises two parts and a questionnaire.
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 or birth certificate.
Registration closes at midday on Friday 10 October 2025. This is also 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
SHAPE OF THE SCHOOL 2026
There are 45 available places in Middle Sixth (Year 12) to make a year group of approximately 90 students.
Thomas’s College opened in September 2025 with a total cohort of just over 300 students. For the academic year 2026, it is envisaged that the overall school will comprise approximately 450 students spread evenly across Years 7-13. The Sixth Form in 2026 is likely to comprise 90 students in Middle Sixth (Year 12) and 30 in Upper Sixth (Year 13).
The Assessment Process 3 STEPS
QUESTIONNAIRE
KNOWLEDGE
Viva Voce
A questionnaire is supplied to candidates in advance that assesses candidates’ character and allows candidates to reflect on their interests, experiences, and ambitions. It is important that this questionnaire is completed thoughtfully, as they will be invited to reflect and expand on their answers in their Part 2 40-minute interview.
The questionnaire and personal interview provide space for candidates to express who they are as people and learners –beyond academic grades.
Part 1
Candidates select a subject for which they have a passion –typically one they plan to pursue at A Level. In this subject they will have a 30-minute viva voce: a 1:1 spoken examination with a subject expert. If candidates wish to have their viva in a subject that they have not previously studied such as Economics, Politics, Psychology or Business Studies, we recommend that students have a good introductory interest in that subject perhaps garnered from their own reading research or podcasts. The viva will be tailored to meet each candidate’s ability level and subject knowledge.
PERSONAL INTERVIEW
REFERENCES & PREDICTED GRADES
Those opting for a creative viva subject such as Art or Drama will be asked to bring or prepare specific items to their Viva. A viva is typically a 1:1 between a candidate and academic lead.
This 30-minute viva conversation offers candidates the opportunity to:
• Demonstrate subject knowledge and enthusiasm
• Engage in brief written tasks that may form part of the discussion
Viva content aligns with GCSE-level learning and is designed to meet candidates where they are in their current studies.
Part 2
A personal interview, focused on values, ways of thinking, and readiness for Sixth Form. The interview is based on each candidate’s completed questionnaire.
Candidates first complete a written questionnaire as part of their application, which helps shape the conversation. This is not a test of confidence or polish – it’s a chance for candidates to be authentic, thoughtful, and open. Personal interviews are typically in small groups of no more than 5 candidates.
Where available, we will also ask for predicted GCSE grades.
CONDITIONAL OFFERS
All Sixth Form offers are conditional upon performance in public examinations. Based on a candidate’s overall assessment in Parts 1-3, offers typically require:
• 50–56 points across their best eight GCSEs (or equivalent)
Candidates must typically achieve Grade 7 or above in their chosen major subjects, with the exception of Physics and Maths, where the qualifying score is Grade 8 or above. Candidates with other qualifications, including letter-graded iGCSEs, should contact the Admissions team to discuss equivalent requirements.
CURRICULUM
Our curriculum guide for 2025-2026 can be viewed here and is likely to be similar for the 2026 academic year.
Our unique Year 12-13 is based on A Levels but inspired by the US College approach of majors and minors. Students choose 3-4 major subjects, which they will take either to A Level or to one of our unique qualifications. Our indicative A level offer is detailed below.
It is recommended that candidates read the curriculum guide and attend our Open Evening on Tuesday 30 September at 5pm to gain a deeper understanding of the innovative Sixth form programme that encompasses Minors and TQs.
Language & Culture Science
• French
• German
• Greek
• Latin
• Mandarin
• Politics
• Spanish
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Computer Science
• Maths
• Further Maths
• Physical Education
• Physics
• Psychology
Understanding the World
• Business Studies
• Classical Civilisation
• Economics
• English Literature
• Geography
• History
• Theology & Philosophy
Create, Invent, Perform
• Art
• Design & Engineering
• Drama
• Music
Scholarships
FOUNDING SCHOLARSHIPS –ENTRY INTO YEAR
12 2026
Following the success of our Founding Scholarship programme in our inaugural year, we have extended the programme for one further year, purely for those considering entry into Year 12, Middle Sixth in 2026.
These prestigious awards cover up to 100% of tuition fees and reward academically exceptional students who will help shape the culture and spirit of Thomas’s College in its formative years.
Founding Scholarships awarded on entry into Middle Sixth cover the Middle and Upper Sixth years. Scholarships will be awarded automatically to candidates who excel in our standard selection process – no separate application is required. The process values diversity of talent, discourages excessive preparation, and identifies exceptional potential.
There is no fixed number of scholarships; awards depend on the strength of applicants.
Founding Scholarships are awarded purely on merit. All recipients are asked to make a donation worth 10% of school fees annually to Thomas’s Foundation (with needsblind exemptions available). Where possible, families are warmly encouraged to donate more, providing life-changing opportunities to others.
Founding Scholars will join our Founding Board – a lifelong community within our alumni network – celebrating their role in shaping the College from the very beginning. We hope they will continue to inspire and connect with one another long after graduation.
Candidates are welcome to apply for both a Founding Scholarship and up to two Master’s Awards.
Master’s Awards
MASTER’S AWARDS’
Master’s Awards recognise outstanding promise and commitment in the following specialisms:
• Art
• Charity and Community
• Computing
• Dance
• Drama
• Engineering
• Music
• Sport
Our Master’s Awards are unique and reflect both traditional scholarship areas as well as more innovative skills and attributes that are vital for the next generation. A preference for one or two Master’s Awards can be made after registration: you will be contacted by the Admissions team to confirm your Master’s Award(s) preference.
Master’s Awards are assessed on the same day as the Part 1 & Part 2 Assessments – Tuesday 4 and Thursday 6 November.
There are two levels of awards, Exhibitions worth £750 annual tuition fee remission and Master’s Awards worth £1500 of annual tuition fee remission. The tuition fee is reduced by the value of any Exhibitions or Awards before VAT is calculated.
Master’s Awards also include leadership opportunities within the chosen discipline. Holders are expected to represent and support the College through their talents. Awards are reviewed annually.
As a Master’s Award recipient, students will be expected to:
• Champion their area of specialism, showing passion through their engagement and attitude
• Be an exceptional role model for peers and younger students both within Thomas’s College, and the wider community. This could include helping with, or leading a co-curricular club, acting as a role model for younger years and active participation in orchestra, band, choir or productions (if relevant)
• Take pride in being the recipient of a Master’s Award whilst also supporting and promoting Thomas’s College
Candidates are welcome to apply for up to two Master’s Awards.
Assessment for all 16+ Master’s Awards will take place on the day of assessment, in the afternoon and early evening of either Tuesday 4 November or Thursday 6 November 2025.
ART MASTER’S AWARD
Students applying for a Master’s Award in Art are required to attend the assessment day with a 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)
Candidates will 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.
CHARITY/ COMMUNITY PIONEER MASTER’S AWARD
A Charity or Community Pioneer is likely to be innovative and engaged in their approach to community-based charitable work. They may volunteer for their place of worship, be involved with the Scouts or Guides or have advanced their DofE volunteering record. Given the restrictions young people face to volunteer, applications are welcome from those who are at the planning stage and who intend to develop and engage the community during their Sixth Form career.
Candidates will meet with a senior member of staff for an interview and discussion of what they have achieved or plan to achieve. Candidates should expect to demonstrate their collaborative approach, their approach to building connections and depth of understanding of the importance of the third sector.
COMPUTING MASTER’S AWARD
This award recognises passion and problem-solving within computing and programming. Computer Award recipients are likely to be ambitious, collaborative, ethical and creative in their approach to computing. They are expected to have studied GCSE Computer Science and typically intend to study Computer Science at A level.
Candidates will meet with a Computer Science teacher for an interview and discussion. Candidates may be asked to discuss problem solving and programming, software development, data structures and algorithms as well as elements of computational thinking. Candidates should expect to discuss their self-developed projects that have been largely completed outside of lesson time.
DANCE MASTER’S AWARD
Dance has been an integral 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.
Candidates will be asked to prepare and perform a solo piece that candidates have learnt or choreographed of approximately 1 minute 30 in length, and no more than 2 minutes. The piece should not be an exam piece and it should demonstrate creativity and individuality.
Candidates will meet with 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.
DRAMA MASTER’S AWARD
Candidates will be asked to prepare and present 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.
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.
FUTURE ENGINEER MASTER’S AWARD
The Future Engineer Master’s Award is aimed at those with a passion and commitment to the subject evidenced by projects undertaken both in and outside of school hours. Future Engineers are expected to have a good understanding of design and CAD software such as Onshape or Solidworks. They are likely to have a high degree of problem-solving skills and be innovative thinkers.
Candidates will meet with the Head of Design & Engineering for an interview and discussion. Candidates will be asked to outline their reasons for applying and suitability for the Award. It is recommended that candidates bring with them an example of their work. Recipients will be expected to take Design & Engineering as a Sixth Form subject.
MUSIC MASTER’S AWARD
Music Master’s Awards are granted to those who play an instrument that is typically found in an orchestra, or voice. Music Master’s Awards are typically awarded to students who have achieved or are working towards Grade 5 in their first instrument, which can be voice. Those seeking a voice scholarship are typically required to be Grade 3 or higher in an instrument.
Candidates will be expected to perform two contrasting instrumental or vocal pieces (no longer than 10 mins length combined). Candidates will meet with the Director of Music for a discussion and interview where they will be expected to articulate their performance experience, theory level and ways they would like to be involved in the music program at Thomas’s College.
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’ Sports Master’s Award. Candidates are likely to be playing ‘A’ team level or equivalent in 3 of Thomas’s major sports.
Thomas’s Major Sports
Boys:
Rugby | Football | Hockey | Cricket
Girls:
Hockey | Netball | Football | Cricket
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. Successful candidates will be invited to meet with the Director of Sport for a practical assessment. Candidates will be expected to speak confidently about their sporting experiences, dedication, and enthusiasm.
Useful Information
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 assessment on the afternoon of either Tuesday 4 November of Thursday 6 November. Unfortunately, we are unable to sponsor overseas students
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 boarders. 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.
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:
Sixth Form (Years 12–13)
DAY FEES PER TERM
Lunch (compulsory)
Fifth and Sixth Form (Years 9-13)
WEEKLY BOARDING FEES PER TERM
SPECIFIED CHARGES
OPTIONAL
£10,923
£415
£5,105
Flexi-boarding (1–2 nights per week) £110 per night Includes supervision, activities, overnight accommodation, and all meals.
Flexi-boarding is available to students in Years 9–13 and is ideal for busy schedules, early/late co-curriculars, or exploring full boarding.
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, music lessons, expeditions and residential trips) will be charged in arrears at the end of each term. Typically there will be an initial Middle Sixth residential trip at the start of the Michaelmas term – this trip will cost less than £1,000.
BURSARIES
Support with fees is directed to those securing Founding Scholarships, who may access support of up to 100% of fees.
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
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.