New Head's Recommendation Scheme at KES Prep

17 October 2022

From September 2023, KES Prep pupils achieving at the appropriate level in their studies by the end of Year 5 will be given a guaranteed place at its senior school, King Edward VI, Southampton, for Year 7, without the risks and anxiety associated with an external examination route.  

Since 2012, King Edward VI School and KES Prep have been proud partners. To celebrate our 10th anniversary we are pleased to share that our already well-established links will, from next academic year, be further enhanced.

From September 2023, KES Prep will move to a Nursery to Year 6 model, which will provide a wonderful opportunity to further enhance the links between KES Prep and KES. KES Prep is delighted to announce that as it moves to a true 3-18 school structure, Stroud children arriving in Year 7 at KES from September 2024 will be able to earn their place by virtue of their ongoing academic attainment, rather than through the traditional entrance exam route.

This ‘Head’s Recommendation’ route will uniquely allow children from KES Prep to obtain a guaranteed place at KES, should they have demonstrated the appropriate academic potential to thrive and succeed at our senior school.

The Head at King Edward VI, Neal Parker, said of the new initiative: “KES Prep is the KES preparatory school, and KES Prep pupils represent our biggest intake into Year 7 each September. In recent years we have sought to build on our close relationship, benefiting both our primary and secondary pupils and teachers through mutual collaboration and sharing of best practice. We know that the teaching and learning at KES Prep is exceptional, and that we can rely on the expertise of the academic staff to give a Head’s Recommendation to those pupils who will benefit from the learning environment offered by KES. We are looking forward to welcoming our first cohort of Head’s Recommendation entrants in September 2024, after the process is introduced over the next academic year. This is but one more step towards building a truly exceptional 3-18 offering for families across our region."

KES Prep's popular Wednesday morning events take place throughout the term and are an excellent way to visit the school, meet our staff and children and explore our facilities and extensive grounds. Our Registrar would be delighted to guide you through our admissions process or answer any questions.

She is contactable on 01794 528360, or email here.