READY FOR THE NEXT ADVENTURE

Joining in Year 6

Bucking the national trend of declining independent school rolls, we created 24 extra spaces in Year 6 at the Prep for September 2026, and will be doing the same again for Year 6 for September 2027.

This is a unique opportunity for children to experience The Perse’s exceptional academic, pastoral and extracurricular provision with specialist teachers and facilities on the Prep site before seamlessly progressing onto the larger Upper site in Year 7.

Please take a look at our Book a Tour page if you wish to visit the school.

Why Join in Year 6?

  • Escape SATs Pressure: Focus on deep, engaging learning without the constraints of national testing.
  • Academic Stretch: A top-notch classroom provision with specialist teachers across all subjects. All Year 6 pupils also take part in independent research projects, which you can read about here.
  • A Flying Start: One year at The Perse Prep offers a strong social foundation with our form teachers, pastoral team, nurse and counsellor on hand, ahead of transitioning to the Upper. Every Year 6 pupil has a position of responsibility and so grows in confidence, giving something back to their community.
  • Fabulous Facilities: Benefit from weekly use of our new Perse Sports Centre (25m indoor pool, sports hall, climbing wall), use of the Peter Hall Performing Arts Centre at the Upper and 16 acres of land at the Prep, including a full-size Astroturf pitch.
  • Sporting Memories: Every pupil represents the school in fixtures. We are proud of our sporting excellence, for example, since March 2025, our Year 6 have been Hockey National Champions, Boys’ Football National Finalists, Girls’ Football National Finalists and Tennis National Champions, as well a Table Tennis National Champion.
  • Reach for the Sun: Perform in the Year 6 musical, join the Year 6 ski trip to Italy, get stuck into the Year 6 leavers’ adventure holiday experience.
  • Wraparound childcare: In place from 7.40am to 4.30pm at no extra charge, with chargeable after-school care subsequently available until 6pm.
  • Means-Tested Bursaries: We are offering financial assistance to ensure access to families who would benefit most. Find out more here.
  • No Upper Entrance Tests: Prep pupils recommended by the Head automatically progress to the Upper.

Key Dates:

Deadline to Apply: Tuesday 1 December 2026

Entrance Testing Day: Saturday 16 January 2027

The Perse sets the standards with 3D provision (academic, pastoral and extra-curricular) by consistently achieving the best exam results and university offers of any Cambridge school. We provide pupils with high quality pastoral care and a rich programme of events and activities to help pupils develop transferrable skills and make memories for life.

We are confident that you and your child will discover the special feel of the Prep which helps children develop as confident, smiling, interesting and interested individuals. Do book a bespoke tour with the Head or come to our open event. You can also email us with any questions at prep@perse.co.uk.