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Mid-Year Admissions

Choosing the right school for your child is an important decision, and sometimes the perfect timing doesn’t have to wait until September. Elmhurst Prep School welcomes mid-year admissions for families seeking a fresh start, a better fit, or additional support. To guide parents through the process, we’ve put together answers to our most frequently asked questions. From helping children settle in and catch up academically to experiencing school life before committing, this guide shows how we make mid-year transitions smooth, supportive, and successful.

We warmly invite you to meet our Head, Mrs Sara Marriott, for a personal tour and see firsthand what makes Elmhurst Prep special. Following your visit, your child will have the opportunity to enjoy a taster day, giving them a real feel for life at our school, before receiving a formal offer to join.

Our admissions events offer a relaxed, welcoming way to explore Elmhurst Prep. Meet our staff, discover our beautiful grounds, and experience the warmth of our school community.

We also believe in being clear and transparent. To help you plan ahead, our fees are easy to view and understand—you can find them here.

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. New pupils are paired with a buddy or mentor, 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.

Can we visit the school before applying?

Yes—visiting is strongly encouraged. Families can arrange a private tour, meet teachers, see classes in action and get a real feel for school life. We’re always happy to answer questions and help you understand how Elmhurst can support your child’s transition.

Can my child try a day at Elmhurst before we decide?

Yes. Taster days are available for most year groups and are a great way for your child to meet their teachers, make new friends, and experience the school environment in a relaxed, enjoyable way.

What if my child is nervous about joining a new school?

We make settling in as easy as possible. Taster days, buddy systems, and personalised support plans ensure children quickly feel at home. Many mid-year joiners tell us they felt part of the community within days.

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.

We hope these FAQs give you a clear picture of how Elmhurst Prep School supports mid-year joiners and their families. Every child’s transition is carefully planned, with personalised academic guidance, pastoral support, and opportunities to make friends and feel part of the community from day one. If you’re considering a mid-year move, we’d love to welcome you for a visit, answer any further questions, and explore how your child can thrive with us. Contact our friendly admissions team for your personal tour.

Mid-Year Admissions

What are mid-year admissions?

How quickly can my child join once we apply?

Will my child receive support to help them settle in?

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

Can we visit the school before applying?

Can my child try a day at Elmhurst before we decide?

What if my child is nervous about joining a new school?

How much support is available for parents during the transition?

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