Time Every Step Perfectly
Expert Timeline Planning from Leaders Who Know the Process. Contact us straightaway, or read on until you are ready to start your journey with us here at Chattan Harbour.
We'll guide you to
amazing schools
At Chattan Harbour, our former Heads understand that choosing and applying to independent schools can seem complex. This comprehensive timeline will guide you through the key stages of the application process.
Key application periods
September - November
Submit registration forms for the following academic year; begin school visits and attend open days; start gathering required documentation; consider assessment preparation needs
December - February
Entrance assessments and interviews take place; academic testing for specific year groups ; scholarship assessments where applicable ; parent interviews and school tours
March - April
Offer letters typically sent out; review terms and conditions ; consider scholarship offers; evaluate financial commitments
May - June
Accept offers and pay deposits ; complete additional paperwork ; begin transition planning ; arrange uniform and equipment; attend induction days ; complete medical forms; finalize transport arrangements; purchase school supplies
AGE SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS
5+
Entry at Year 1
- Informal assessments through play-based activities
- Basic numeracy and literacy observations
- Social interaction evaluation
- Parent interviews
7+
Entry at Year 3
- More structured assessments in:
- English
- Mathematics
- Reasoning
- Individual interviews
- Current school reports review
11+
Entry at Year 7
- Formal entrance examinations
- Subject-specific assessments
- Individual interviews
- Detailed school references
13+
Traditional post-Prep school entry
Varies greatly - we'd advise calling us for assistance
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
No two applications are the same - we'll navigate this together
SEND Applications
- Additional documentation requirements; educational psychologist reports; current support plans; specialist assessments
International Students
- Visa requirements ; guardian arrangements ; english language requirements; passport documentation
Scholarship Applications
- Additional testing requirements ; portfolio preparation; interview preparation ; references and recommendations
EXPERT TIPS FROM FORMER HEADS
Anchor your application strategy
Start early
- Begin research 12-18 months before intended entry
- Register interest with multiple schools
- Attend open days during term time
Preparation matters
- Age-appropriate assessment preparation
- Regular reading and numeracy practice
- Maintain open communication with current school
- Build confidence through positive reinforcement
Documentation organisation
- Create a dedicated file for each school
- Keep copies of all submissions
- Track application deadlines
- Monitor correspondence
School selection strategy
- Consider location and transport
- Evaluate academic standards
- Assess extra-curricular opportunities
- Review pastoral care provisions
How we help families at Chattan Harbour
How chattan harbour can help
We offer expert guidance throughout a complex process that can last years, from a simple phone consultation through to a multi-year relationship.
Expert guidance
At the helm of Britain's finest schools.
Now charting courses for families like yours.
Expert guidance from those who've navigated these waters.
Personalised school recommendations
Every voyage is unique.
Your course, expertly plotted.
Your destination, precisely chosen.
Assessment preparation strategies
Deep waters need skilled navigation.
Our expertise lights your way.
Your child's potential, fully charted.
Interview coaching
Steady confidence in choppy waters.
Expert Heads guiding the way.
Documentation review and support
Details anchor your success.
Expert eyes scan every horizon.
Your application, shipshape.
Five different service tiers
Five depths of expertise.
From first soundings to full passage.
Your journey, your choice.
Copyright Chattan Harbour 2025