Lower School Admissions FAQs

  • When can my child start at Norwich School?

    Children can join the Lower School from age 3 in Pre-Reception, with further entry points including Reception (age 4) and later Lower School years up to Year 6. The school offers a continuous educational journey from ages 3-18 within the same school community. 

  • How do we apply for a place at Norwich Lower School?

    Parents should complete the online application form via the Admissions section of the school website. A non-refundable registration fee of £95 is payable with each application.

  • Is there an application deadline?

    For the main September intake, the Lower School application deadline is typically in early December. Applications can still be submitted later in the year, but places are subject to availability.

  • What happens during the Admissions Assessment?

    Pre-Reception (Age 3)

    Children are invited into school for a short play-based session in the Pre-Reception classroom (around 45 minutes) with the Head of Early Years. The session helps staff ensure that children feel comfortable, happy and ready for the school environment.


    Reception (Age 4)

    The admissions process for Reception is designed to assess a child’s readiness to learn. Children take part in small group activities, individual tasks and social interaction sessions. These activities help staff observe qualities such as curiosity, independence, communication and articulacy, sociability and problem-solving ability. The reception assessment normally has two stages: 

    1. A small group assessment session (around 1.5 hours)

    2. A social activity session


    Lower School (Year 1- Year 6)

    For entry into Lower One (Year 1) and Upper One (Year 2) all applicants will be invited to join a taster session with their future classmates and take part in a mix of individual and group activities. For entry to Lower Two (Year 3) to Upper Three (Year 6), all registered applicants will sit online entrance assessments in basic reading comprehension, spelling and maths. Pupils will also meet the Head of Lower School where they will be asked about their favourite activities at school and their other interests.


  • Does my child need to prepare for assessments?

    No intensive preparation is required. The school aims to gain a natural and realistic understanding of each child’s current ability, and over-preparation is discouraged.



  • Will the school contact my child's current school?

    From Year 1 onwards, the school will request a reference from the Head of the child’s current school as part of the admissions process.

  • Can we visit the school before applying?

    Yes. The school encourages families to visit to see whether it feels like the right fit. Opportunities include: 


    • Annual Open Morning (September)

    • Open Afternoons during the school day

    • Individual visits or tours arranged through the Admissions team.

  • Who can I contact for help with admissions?

    The Admissions Team is available to guide you through the process and answer any questions. 


    Lisa Tombling (PA to the Head of the Lower School) 

    Tel: 01603 728 439

    Email: lsadmissions@norwich-school.org.uk