Frequently Asked Questions
These are some of the most frequently asked questions. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch.
How long is the school day?
We open the doors at 8.10am (8.00am on Tuesdays and Thursdays) for Prep School pupils and 8.15am for Pre-Prep pupils. Registration is at 8.40am. The Pre-Prep children finish at about 3.30pm and the Prep School pupils at 3.40pm. From Year 1 onwards there is the opportunity to join an after school club in some afternoons. These will finish at either 4.45pm or 5.00pm
Is there a nursery?
No. We start with a Reception class (4+)
Which after/before school clubs do you run?
Details of these can be found on the website under Pre-Prep and Prep ‘Clubs and Activities’
Do you prepare pupils for 11+ exams or only Common Entrance?
We prepare pupils for 11+, Common Entrance and, if appropriate, scholarship exams.
What is the proportion of boys to girls?
From Reception to Year 6, we try and keep the numbers as close to 50:50 as we can. Nevertheless, spaces have to be available for choristers and we find that there are slightly more boys than girls. Many girls choose to leave at the end of Year 6 due to the system of day school entry for all-girls’ schools in London and therefore Years 7 and 8 are inevitably boy heavy.
How many boys/girls stay on to age 13?
At least half the year group stay on into Years 7 and 8 and we often have new pupils arriving in Year 7. We often have about 4 of 5 girls in each year group but this will differ from year to year.
Which schools do they go on to?
A wide variety of London day schools and boarding schools around the country. Please do get in touch if you would like a list of leavers’ destinations over the last five years.
What is the average class size?
20 in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2, 18 in Years 3 to 6 and about 12 in Years 7 and 8.
At what age should my child start learning a musical instrument and which one should they choose?
This is very much a personal choice and will depend on the individual child. A conversation with the school’s Director of Music is the best way forward. Pupils usually start with the piano and/or recorder.
What sports facilities do you have?
We have a large playground on site which can be used for P.E. and some sporting activity. From Year 3, each year group is taken off site to venues such as Corams’ Fields for an afternoon of games once a week.
Do I have to be a practising Christian to send my child to the school?
No. We welcome pupils from all faiths and none. Pupils will receive education about different religions as part of the R.S. curriculum but assemblies will often have a Christian message. All pupils attend two or three services in the Cathedral during the course of the academic year.
At what point should I put my child’s name down for 4+/7+?
We recommend you put down your child’s name as early as possible for 4+ entry. 7+ entry has a deadline of 31 December they year before they would take up their place.
If my child is unsuccessful at age 4 can s/he try again at age 7?
Yes. We are aware that children can change quite a lot in those years and we will assess them afresh at this point.
Are bursaries available?
Yes. Details can be had from the Bursar, Mr Martin Kiddle, by contacting the school or emailing him direct: bursar@spcs.london.sch.uk
What is your SEN provision?
We have a dedicated learning support department to support pupils, staff and parents in the case of a learning difficulty being identified or if a pupil requires extra support. Our Learning Support Policy is available on request.