Senior/Secondary School Transition

Preparing for Senior School Transition

The Richard Pate School finishes at Year 6 and we work closely with parents to ensure the next school will build on the excellent foundations we have created. Children have transitioned to more than 40 different schools over the past ten years and we pride ourselves not only in giving the children the best preparation to gain places but even more importantly to thrive once they get there.

We provide a range of support and guidance for parents and children in choosing the right Senior/Secondary School.  We are proud of the number and diversity of schools that our children regularly go to, including grammar, independent and comprehensive schools. Our teachers use their extensive knowledge of children, including an in-depth academic profile generated through frequent and thorough standardised assessments, to guide parents and children in choosing the best Senior/Secondary school for each child.

We have an impressive record of getting children into their school of choice and a reputation for giving good advice on the most suitable schools for each child. This begins in Year 4 with a ‘Transition to Senior School’ talk given to all parents by the Headmaster and Transition Lead, followed up with individual appointments.

Subjects follow the national curriculum, as well as thorough preparation for the entrance test to grammar schools and independent senior school applications. By the time our pupils reach the upper years, they are already keen, enthusiastic, independent learners. In addition to their class teacher, they are taught by a team of specialist teachers and have increased individual responsibility for learning and homework. Beyond this, we focus on the following:

Academic Preparation

The academic provision children receive is equally worthwhile for those who take the Gloucestershire Grammar test, those who are aiming for independent school and those who will be attending local comprehensives. Children develop their reasoning skills through practical, bespoke activities which benefit them academically, including:

Year 5

• Weekly timetabled 11+ preparation lessons with the Headmaster and Transition Lead, in which children are introduced to the four elements of the 11+ (English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning)
• Weekly Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning homework tasks, consolidating in-school learning and differentiated to the specific needs of each child
• Weekly Lunchtime Academic Club
• School holiday practice sessions from Easter

Full mock testing programme, including specific feedback for parents, giving children experience of exam conditions and time management

Independent senior school and comprehensive application:

• Interview practice with the Headmaster
• Presentation skills training
• Completion of reference forms (as required)
• Liaison with receiving Heads and admissions departments with regards to scholarships
• Communication with link tutors to ensure smooth transition

We are extremely proud of our academic record.  Every year a large percentage gain places at grammar schools and win scholarships to independent schools in a wide range of fields including academic, sports, music, art and drama.

Destination Schools Information