The choice of senior school is hugely important and one which we take seriously. The staff at Brabyns have a wealth of experience in supporting and guiding families to choose the right senior school for their children, and in preparing them for that process.
Our whole school curriculum allows for a natural and gradual progression to 11+/independent schools’ entrance examination standards. We ensure the children are thoroughly prepared and supported for their examinations and navigate these calmly and positively. From Year 1 onwards, we use a wide range of assessment data, including measures of academic potential, to work closely with parents in deciding on the most appropriate secondary school.
As an independent school, we are mindful of, but not restricted by, the National Curriculum requirements, and our programmes of study go beyond those requirements. We ensure that children are familiar with Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning, as well as Maths and English requirements.
Timeline for Secondary School Application and Examinations
Year 5
| Summer Term | Parent Meeting to discuss Senior School options and requirements |
| Summer Term | Early morning classes commence, in Maths, Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal reasoning 8.15 – 8.45am |
| Summer Term | Children are gradually introduced to the formal exam situation, and questions from past papers. |
| Summer Term | Children encouraged to attend Y5 taster days at senior schools |
| August | Applications open to local secondary schools |
Year 6
| September |
Parent meeting explaining the journey through the senior school application process. Parents and children are encouraged to attend Senior School open days. |
| September – January | Early morning classes, in Maths, Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal reasoning 8.15 – 8.45am |
| October | Applications close to local secondary schools (31st October) |
| December |
Parents apply for selected schools. Standard reference forms completed by Brabyns for all Year 6 pupils. |
| December | Mock exam takes place in the school hall, for children to experience a formal examination situation. |
| January / February |
Independent Senior School entrance exams take place. Children attend mock interviews with the Headteacher Independent Senior Schools pupil interviews |
| March | National Offer Day |
| June/July |
Year 6 Secondary School transition days & events Transition visits by secondary school staff to Brabyns |
Historically a majority (77%) of our children move onto Independent Senior Schools and we are extremely proud of our record of success in enabling pupils to reach their first choice schools. Our staff provide a range of support and guidance for parents and children in choosing their Senior School and in Years 5 and 6 we offer additional support for the children in their preparations for exams and transfer to senior school.
Children and parents opting to move on to state senior schools are supported equally to ensure they can fully flourish at their senior school. Below is a breakdown of the schools the children have moved on to, and at the bottom of the page a graphic illustrating pass rates for each School.
If you would like to discuss our exam results further, or Senior School entrance requirements, please get in touch.
Year 6 Offers – Summer 24
Year 6 Leaver Destinations since 2000
| Cheadle Hulme | 14% |
| Hulme Hall | 8% |
| King’s | 16% |
| Manchester Grammar | 5% |
| Manchester High | 7% |
| Stockport Grammar | 21% |
| Other Independent Schools | 6% |
| State | 24% |
