SJP2006

Mid-Year Admissions

Choosing the right school for your child is a big decision, and sometimes the need for change doesn’t wait until September. Holmwood House welcomes mid-year admissions (from Nursery, through to Senior School) for families seeking a fresh start, a better fit, or additional support. To help parents navigate the process, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions. From settling in and catching up academically to experiencing school life before committing, this guide explains how we make mid-year transitions smooth, supportive, and successful for every child.

We warmly invite you to join our Head, Mr Ed Bond, for a personal tour and discover all that makes our school special. Your child will then be invited to a taster day to experience school life, followed by a formal offer to join Holmwood House.

Our admissions events are a relaxed way to get to know Holmwood House. Meet our staff, explore our beautiful grounds, and experience the warmth of our school community at Open Mornings, Year 7 Evenings, or Little Steps Toddler Groups

We believe in providing clear and transparent information. To help you plan ahead, we’ve made our fees easy to access and understand. You can view them here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are mid-year admissions?

Mid-year admissions allow children to join Holmwood House at any point during the academic year, rather than waiting for the traditional September start. This is ideal for families who are relocating, seeking a better school fit, or looking for a fresh start.

How quickly can my child join once we apply?

We aim to make the process as smooth and swift as possible. Once an enquiry is made, our Admissions Team will arrange a visit, request any necessary information from your child’s current school, and organise an assessment or taster day. Places can often be offered within a short time frame, depending on availability in the appropriate year group.

Will my child receive support to help them settle in?

Absolutely. We know that joining a new school mid-year can feel overwhelming. New pupils are paired with a buddy or mentor, teachers provide close academic support, and our pastoral care team ensures your child feels welcomed, confident and connected from day one.

How do you help children catch up if they’ve been following a different curriculum?

Our teachers assess each child’s starting point and tailor support accordingly. Whether they need help bridging gaps, stretching their learning, or adjusting to a new curriculum approach, we provide personalised guidance to help every pupil feel secure and capable in their learning.

Can we visit the school before applying?

Yes—visiting is strongly encouraged. Families can arrange a private tour, meet teachers, see classes in action and get a real feel for school life. We’re always happy to answer questions and help you understand how Holmwood House can support your child’s transition.

Can my child try a day at Holmwood House before we decide?

Yes. Taster days are available for most year groups and are a great way for your child to meet their teachers, make new friends, and experience the school environment in a relaxed, enjoyable way.

What if my child is nervous about joining a new school?

We make settling in as easy as possible. Taster days, buddy systems, and personalised support plans ensure children quickly feel at home. Many mid-year joiners tell us they felt part of the community within days.

How much support is available for parents during the transition?

A lot. You’ll have a single point of contact within the Admissions Team who manages paperwork, timelines and communication, making everything clear and manageable. You’ll also receive guidance about uniform, transport, schedules and anything else needed for a seamless first day.

We hope these FAQs give you a clear picture of how Holmwood House supports mid-year joiners and their families. Every child’s transition is carefully planned, with personalised academic guidance, pastoral support, and opportunities to make friends and feel part of the community from day one. If you’re considering a mid-year move, we’d love to welcome you for a visit, answer any further questions, and explore how your child can thrive here. At Holmwood House, the right time to ignite curiosity and potential is always now.


STAY CONNECTED

Holmwood House Nursery

151 Coach Road, Great Horkesley,
Colchester,
Essex CO6 4DX
T: (01206) 273 827
E: nurserymanager@holmwood.house

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Holmwood House School

Chitts Hill, Lexden,
Colchester,
Essex CO3 9ST
T: (01206) 574305
E: office@holmwood.house

GET DIRECTIONS