Infant & Junior Admissions

Reception - Year 6

Junior School Open Events

Upcoming dates 

Whole School Open House

Saturday 26 September 2026 | 9am - 1pm

Joining CHS in Reception

First steps at chs

The main point of entry into Infant & Junior School is the Reception class. A child will start School in the September after their 4th birthday and pupils who are admitted to the Infant Department will transfer automatically to Year 3.

For entry to Reception, assessments take place throughout the autumn and spring terms. Children will work alongside experienced staff in an informal setting to assess early literacy skills, counting and numerical awareness.

For entry into other Infant classes, assessments focus on foundational skills in reading, spelling, writing, and mathematics. 

Joining our Junior School

Year 3 - 6

Children applying for Junior classes should demonstrate fluent reading comprehension, the ability to respond to questions orally and in writing, and sustained writing for about 30 minutes on a given topic. We also look for an interest in reading for both pleasure and information. Assessments may include reasoning and multiple-choice questions, covering a broad knowledge of mathematical concepts (number, data, shape, and measures), including written and oral calculations, and problem-solving. Children should also be able to work quietly for around 30 minutes at a time.

Automatic transition to Senior School

Pupils who join our Junior School before Year 5 will automatically transfer to our Senior School. This transfer is subject to a satisfactory Year 4 assessment and consistent internal assessment data throughout Years 5 and 6.

Wraparound Care

Support and flaxibility

Our provision of care for Infant & Junior pupils extends beyond the normal school hours of 8.40am and 3.30pm, offering facilities for pupils to be cared for between 7.30am and 6.00pm in a familiar environment where they can take part in a wide range of activities.

Children can arrive at School from 7.30am onwards for Breakfast Club. 

After School Care is available between 3.30pm – 6.00pm. 

There are various subject-based, sport or music clubs available to KS2 pupils after School for up to one hour. 

FAQs

  • When should I apply for a place in the Infant or Junior School?

    Applications open in the autumn term for entry in the following academic year. While assessments are conducted on rolling dates through the autumn and spring terms, early application is strongly recommended due to high demand.

  • What does the assessment process look like for Reception applicants?

    Reception assessments are informal, play-based sessions designed to observe early literacy, counting, physical coordination, and social interaction in a comfortable, group setting. Children work directly with experienced early years staff, ensuring a supportive and relaxed experience.

  • What is expected during the assessment for Junior School entry (Years 3 to 6)?

    Children applying for Junior classes should demonstrate fluent reading comprehension, the ability to respond to questions orally and in writing, and sustained writing for about 30 minutes on a given topic. We also look for an interest in reading for both pleasure and information.

    Assessments may include reasoning and multiple-choice questions, covering a broad knowledge of mathematical concepts (number, data, shape, and measures), including written and oral calculations, and problem-solving. Children should also be able to work quietly for around 30 minutes at a time.

     

  • Does my child need to prepare or be tutored for the assessment?

    No formal tutoring or preparation is required or encouraged. The assessments are designed to identify potential, curiosity, and academic capability in a warm and natural environment, ensuring the child will thrive in the CHS curriculum.

  • Do Junior School pupils automatically progress to CHS Senior School?

    Yes. Pupils who join the CHS Infant & Junior School progress automatically into Year 7 in the Senior School, provided they maintain satisfactory academic progress, attendance, and good conduct throughout their Junior years.

  • What wraparound care is available for Infant and Junior pupils?

    CHS offers extensive wraparound care on site from 7:30am to 6:00pm during term time:

    • Breakfast Club: 7:30am – 8:40am (includes breakfast and supervised activities).

    • After-School Care: 3:30pm – 6:00pm (includes tea, homework supervision, and recreational activities).

  • Is financial assistance or bursary funding available for Junior School?

    Financial Assistance is not available for Infant and Junior School places. Financial Assistance at CHS is offered to new students entering Year 7 and Year 12.

We would love to hear from you

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