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- 11th Dec 2024
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Why Dame Allan’s Schools entrance exams are no longer just an exam – they’re an experience
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Thinking about enrolling your child in an independent senior school? Don’t worry, Dame Allan’s Schools is here to make the process stress-free.
With entrance assessments coming up, it’s normal to feel a bit anxious. But Dame Allan’s has recently shaken things up to make the day go as smoothly and enjoyable as possible.
We’ve chatted with the friendly Dame Allan’s admissions team who revealed how the entrance assessments are different this year.
HLN TOP TIP: Want more advice on how to prepare for the entrance assessment? Dame Allan’s Schools pupils reveal all here.
WHAT’S NEW?
So, what are entrance assessments, exactly? They’re an important step in independent school admission, and at Dame Allan’s Schools they’re designed to ensure your child will thrive academically and socially, in an environment that helps them really shine and reach their full potential.
The Schools updated the format of their Senior School entrance assessments to help prospective pupils feel more relaxed. When they’re comfortable and having fun, teachers get to see the real them as their personalities shine through And that’s exactly what staff want to see when they come to Dame Allan’s.
“After launching our digital format assessments last year, we’ve allowed for more time for the ‘fun’ element of assessment day,” says Rebecca Miller, Head of Admissions and Communications.
“Our digital assessments also adapt to the level of each pupil, giving us a strong idea of their academic abilities, without causing undue stress or anxiety. We want to make sure that all pupils will feel happy and comfortable with life at Dame Allan’s, both inside and outside the classroom.
“This new format also means that pupils can be assessed in a single-day session. Previously, pupils would have to return on two separate occasions – once for the initial written assessment, which could take up to three hours – and again for an interview with staff members. Not only is this less nerve-wracking for pupils undergoing assessment, but logistically it’s a lot easier for families too.”
WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE ASSESSMENT DAY AT DAME ALLAN’S SCHOOLS
A warm welcome
From the moment they arrive, your child will be greeted by some of Dame Allan’s friendly Sixth Form students, who’ll act as buddies throughout the day to help answer any questions and make everyone feel at ease.
Gone are the days of having to turn up in school uniform. Pupils are encouraged to wear their own clothes, which helps them feel comfortable and relaxed. It’s all part of Dame Allan’s Schools new more flexible approach to assessments.
To keep things calm, arrival times are staggered, so no one feels overwhelmed. Once all pupils have registered, they’re split into small groups and separated by gender. Then, it’s time for the assessment, a one-hour, computer-based session.
Meet some new friends
Once the assessment is complete, the fun really begins. The groups are split further into smaller teams of four for a laid-back chat with a teacher. This is a great way for Dame Allan’s staff to learn more about the pupils, from their interests to their personalities, and is the perfect opportunity for pupils to make new friends.
Fun activities
During the informal chat, there’s also a fun activity, like building a LEGO model. It’s a bit of light-hearted fun but also gives teachers the chance to observe how the pupils work in teams and interact with each other. The activity lasts about 20 minutes and drinks and snacks will be provided.
The day then finishes with a visit to the Sports Hall, where a range of activities are lined up. From classic sports day events like egg-and-spoon races to obstacle courses and brain-teasing challenges, there’s plenty to get pupils chatting and working together.
A DAY TO REMEMBER
The entrance assessment day is all about providing a fun, relaxed experience that allows pupils to show their true selves while also helping Dame Allan’s to get to know them better. By the end of the day, Dame Allan’s Schools hopes they’ll have had fun, made some new friends and felt excited about joining the school. Good luck!
ENTRANCE EXAM DATES
- Boys’ School – Saturday 11th January 2025
- Girls’ School – Saturday 25th January 2025
For more information or support, please contact the Head of Admissions on 0191 275 0608 or email [email protected].
Rachael Ellis
Creative Solutions Manager
After gaining a first in her BA Media and Journalism degree at Northumbria University, Rachael worked at Newcastle’s leading regional newspaper with her stories being picked up in national and global newspapers. She spent two very successful years giving a voice to those communities across the North East who otherwise…
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