Curiosity: Mid Year Admissions

Posted: 22nd December 2025

elmhurst prep

Why a Fresh Start at Elmhurst Prep Mid-Year Could Be Just What Your Child Needs

Elmhurst Prep — where learning is renewed, confidence is rebuilt, and every child is supported to thrive. We are proud to offer a fantastic prep education at an exceptionally competitive price. Education, care, enrichment, and lunch – all from £1,321/month.*

Sometimes a school year doesn’t unfold as hoped. A child who once felt enthusiastic about learning may begin to feel disconnected from their classmates, their confidence, or the classroom itself. Progress can slow, friendships may feel unsettled, and school can start to feel like something to get through rather than enjoy.

For many families, this raises an important question: Is this still the right environment for my child?

At Elmhurst Prep, we recognise that every child’s journey is unique. We believe that the right support, at the right time, can make a lasting difference. With smaller class sizes, consistent and caring staff, and a nurturing culture built on kindness and respect, pupils are truly known and valued. Curiosity is encouraged, effort is celebrated, and children are supported to rediscover both confidence and purpose in their learning.

Joining a new school mid-year can feel like a big step — but it can also be a powerful turning point. New friendships form, learning regains momentum, and children often flourish when they feel safe, supported, and inspired once again. From early years through to primary and secondary education, Elmhurst Prep offers a welcoming environment where your child can grow, belong, and succeed.

Why Families Choose a Mid-Year Move

Life doesn’t always follow an academic calendar. Families relocate, children’s needs change, and sometimes it becomes clear that a different learning environment would better support a child’s confidence, wellbeing, or academic potential. Mid-year admissions at Elmhurst Prep offer flexibility at the moment families need it most.

At Elmhurst Prep, we understand that changing schools mid-year can feel daunting. That’s why we’ve developed a clear, supportive admissions process designed to help your child settle quickly and comfortably — both academically and socially. Our experienced team is on hand to guide families every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and reassuring transition.

A Smooth Transition for Every New Pupil

From the moment your child joins Elmhurst Prep, they are welcomed into a warm, inclusive community where every pupil is known and valued as an individual. Our personalised approach makes a meaningful difference for children joining mid-year.

We are highly experienced in supporting school transitions and take great care to ensure each move is seamless. Class teachers, pastoral staff, and our admissions team work closely together to support every child. New pupils are paired with a buddy, early progress is closely monitored, and parents receive regular updates to feel informed, connected, and reassured.

Children are encouraged to take part in co-curricular activities, clubs, and school events from day one, helping them build friendships and feel part of the Elmhurst Prep community straight away. Every step is thoughtfully planned to ensure pupils feel welcomed, supported, and ready to thrive.

Affordable Excellence

We believe that high-quality education should be accessible and affordable. Our fee structure is designed to offer exceptional value, whilst delivering excellence in quality education.

Our fee and care offer includes an outstanding independent education alongside guaranteed wraparound care from 8am – 6pm.

We offer flexible payment options, allowing fees to be settled termly, or through a monthly payment scheme (spread across 11 months). View more here.

Review our FAQs below on mid-year admissions

Categories: Blog News

What are mid-year admissions?

Mid-year admissions allow children to join Elmhurst Prep School at any point during the academic year, rather than waiting for the traditional September start. This is ideal for families who are relocating, seeking a better school fit, or looking for a fresh start.

How quickly can my child join once we apply?

We aim to make the process as smooth and swift as possible. Once an enquiry is made, our Admissions Team will arrange a visit, request any necessary information from your child’s current school, and organise an assessment or taster day. Places can often be offered within a short time frame, depending on availability in the appropriate year group.

Will my child receive support to help them settle in?

Absolutely. We know that joining a new school mid-year can feel overwhelming. Teachers provide close academic support, and our pastoral care team ensures your child feels welcomed, confident and connected from day one.

How do you help children catch up if they’ve been following a different curriculum?

Our teachers assess each child’s starting point and tailor support accordingly. Whether they need help bridging gaps, stretching their learning, or adjusting to a new curriculum approach, we provide personalised guidance to help every pupil feel secure and capable in their learning.

How much support is available for parents during the transition?

A lot. You’ll have a single point of contact within the Admissions Team who manages paperwork, timelines and communication, making everything clear and manageable. You’ll also receive guidance about uniform, transport, schedules and anything else needed for a seamless first day.

The result? Children feel part of school life from day one — confident, supported, and excited about the opportunities ahead.

Enquire today and book your personal tour with our Head, Mrs Marriott.

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Join us at our Spring Open Morning on Friday, 6th March 2026, from 9:30 am to 12:00 pm.

https://www.elmhurstschool.net/admissions/open-days-and-events/