The assessment process

Once parents have visited the School and completed the registration process, boys will be invited to attend an informal assessment, known as a 'play day' at St Philip’s.

  

The play day will be informal in nature from the point of view of the boys. From the point of view of the assessors, we always look for potential and ‘teachability’ as opposed to outright attainment. To assess this, we will observe boys in small groups and focus on creative play, structured play using building blocks and sequencing material, phonics, and communication and social interaction skills. We are looking for boys who will thrive in our setting and contribute to it positively.

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Play days will take place on the following dates:

 

• Wednesday 7th February 2024, 9.30 am – 10.30 am or 11.30 am – 12.30 pm

• Wednesday 21st February 2024, 9.30 am – 10.30 am or 11.30 am – 12.30 pm

• Friday 23rd February 2024, 9.30 am – 10.30 am or 11.30 am – 12.30 pm

 

Occasional places

Children intended for entry at in years beyond Reception will be asked to attend one of our half-termly assessment days in. In 2023-2024 these dates are:

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Wednesday 13th October 
Wednesday 3rd November

 

Assessment for occasional places will include reading, writing, spelling, vocabulary and mathematics. Wherever possible, current reports should be sent to St Philip's in advance of the assessment.

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Our Registrar will contact you ahead of the two assessment days to organise a convenient time for your child(ren) to be assessed.

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Sibling policy

It is our strong preference to keep families together wherever possible. Providing boys meet our entry requirements at point of assessments, all siblings will be given preference on our lists.

 

Special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND)

St Philip’s will act in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.  Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) will not be put at a substantial disadvantage in matters of admission and the School will take reasonable measures to support  a child with physical difficulties and, where possible, make adjustments for accessibility.

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Parents of boys who have special educational needs and/or disabilities are required to inform the school about these at registration and to provide the relevant reports. For all years of entry, the school requires that all historic and current documentation, including educational psychologist reports, relevant medical documentation and school reports, is submitted to the Registrar before boys participate in the admissions process. If it becomes apparent that relevant information was withheld from the school before participation in the admissions process, it reserves the right to withdraw the offer of a place.

 

In turn, the Registrar will also liaise with our learning support staff to assess whether the school is able to meet a boy’s needs and, if so, will ensure that reasonable adjustments are made within the school’s capacity and 
resources. 

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