Admissions Process
No one knows your child like you do; that is why we are here to ensure you have all the information you need at your fingertips to be able to make the right decision about your child’s education.
Choosing the right school is the most important investment you can make in their future and here at Parkside, we believe this is where their learning foundations are set and their educational journey starts; along with making lifelong friends and memories.
The first step is always to come and visit us for a personal tour, it’s the best way to experience Parkside in action and see what makes our community so special.
Following your visit, families are invited to join one of our Discovery Sessions or Discovery Days, offering children the chance to experience life at Parkside, meet others in their potential peer group, and take part in engaging classroom and outdoor activities.
We look forward to speaking with you and answering any questions, no matter how small, about all aspects of Nursery and School life.
admissions@parkside-school.co.uk
Nursery Admissions Process – Co-Educational for ages 2-4
We welcome children from the term after their second birthday, beginning their Parkside journey in our Nursery. Our youngest join the Hedgehogs (age 2–3), move on to Squirrels, and then to Owls for their pre-Reception year, where they’re gently prepared for the next exciting step into school life.
Once you’ve visited Parkside Nursery and decided to join us, simply complete a registration form, sign the acceptance form and pay a deposit to secure your child’s place.
If your child is not yet two, we’d love to welcome you both to our Stay and Play sessions, a wonderful way to meet other parents, get to know our Nursery team and help your child feel at home before their first day.
Pre-Prep Admissions Process – Co-Educational for Reception, Year 1 and Year 2
We would love you to visit Parkside and experience our vibrant Pre-Prep department in action, see our dedicated teachers, small class sizes and the wealth of facilities available to our youngest learners.
For children joining Reception, the admissions process mirrors that of our Nursery, as they are still part of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). Families are also invited to attend one of our Discovery Sessions, giving children the chance to explore our classrooms, meet their teachers and experience life at Parkside.
For children joining Years 1 and 2, once registered, we will invite your son or daughter for a Taster Day so they can spend time with their potential class peers. During this visit, informal assessments in English and Maths will ensure your child is well placed to access the curriculum alongside their cohort.
Prep Admissions Process – Years 3-8
We warmly welcome boys into the Prep department throughout the year, subject to availability in our class sizes.
As part of our transition to becoming fully co-educational, we will be welcoming girls in Year 3 in September 2026, and registering Expressions of Interest for girls entering Year 4 in September 2026. However, these applications will only be accepted if there are enough girls to ensure a healthy balance in terms of sport, friendships, and overall experience. This approach is guided by our commitment to creating the best possible environment for both boys and girls.
Our transition to co-education will be gradual, ensuring that all pupils benefit from balanced peer groups, meaningful friendships, and enriching experiences during these critical years of development.
If you’d like to find out more or discuss our admissions process, our friendly Admissions team is here to help. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch!
Your child’s happiness and confidence is paramount and we have been told by new parents that their children are immediately made to feel part of the Parkside family and that the transition is seamless and welcoming, which we very much pride ourselves on.
Pupils are invited in for a Taster Day of your choice upon registering, so they can spend the day with their peers. Assessments in English and maths will take place to ensure your son or daughter is able to access the curriculum in line with their cohort. Following a successful day with their cohort of new friends, we would then be able to offer your child a place, which is confirmed by signing an Acceptance Form and paying a deposit.
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