If you are considering applying to an independent girls’ school such as Prior’s Field School, it helps to understand both the general admissions process and what makes the experience unique, especially if you are applying to private education for the first time.
When choosing a private school, there are several important factors to consider. You may wish to think about whether you would prefer a girls-only or co-educational environment and whether boarding is important for your family. Some parents are looking for full boarding, others for flexible or occasional boarding, and some prefer a purely day school experience.
These practical considerations sit alongside the wider question of educational philosophy and the environment in which your daughter will thrive.
At Prior’s Field, we are proud advocates of girls-only education. We believe that educating girls in a dedicated, supportive environment allows them to develop confidence, leadership skills and academic ambition without limitation.
Research consistently shows that girls educated in girls only schools achieve higher academic results, demonstrate greater confidence in the classroom, and are more likely to participate actively in co-curricular activities, such as leading sports teams.
Here is further information regarding girls out-performing their peers when taught in a girls only environment.
1. Research and Shortlist
Start by exploring each school’s ethos, academic offering and wider opportunities. At Prior’s Field School, pupils are encouraged to develop confidence and individuality alongside strong academic foundations.
We would also recommend you research the following:
- Entry points (typically Year 7, Year 9, Sixth Form and occasional places)
- Day and boarding options
- Co-curricular programmes
- Academic results and university destinations
- Experience the school’s atmosphere, ethos and pastoral culture. (‘We live by Admiration, Hope and Love’)
- Explore specialist facilities including art studios, music spaces and drama venues
Attending an open morning or booking a private tour is highly recommended. Seeing the school in action gives you a genuine sense of the atmosphere and community. It is also very important to meet with the Head and if possible senior members of staff also.
It is also worthwhile checking out Social accounts! If school’s are regularly updating their social presence then you can get an excellent feel for the school and its values.
You may also wish to explore how actively the Head is engaged in educational thought leadership, including contributions on LinkedIn.
Our Head, Zoe Ireland, regularly shares her insights and reflections through her new blog and on LinkedIn.
Book a Tour:
You can book a private tour of Prior’s Field School by emailing: admissions@priorsfieldschool.com
Our next Open Event is:
2. Register Your Daughter
Like all independent schools, we require formal registration before assessment. This usually involves:
- Completing a registration form
- Paying a registration fee
- Providing recent school reports
You are very welcome to register your interest here. You do not need to pay the registration fees right now:
“Prior’s Field provides a superb, all-round education, welcoming girls of all abilities.”
3. Entrance Assessments and Interviews
Independent girls’ schools in Surrey typically assess applicants through:
- An entrance examination (often in English and Maths)
- Cognitive ability or reasoning assessments
- An interview with a senior member of staff
- A reference from the current school
At Prior’s Field, the admissions process is designed to be supportive rather than intimidating. The school looks for girls who are curious, creative and ready to engage fully in school life, not just academic performance alone.
For Sixth Form entry, interviews are usually more subject-focused and may include discussion of GCSE results and future aspirations.
4. Scholarship Opportunities
Many independent schools offer scholarships in areas such as:
- Art and Design
- Drama
- Music
- Sport
- Academics
Prior’s Field School offers scholarships in all of the above, plus sports scholarships specifically in our pathways, Netball pathways and Tennis Pathways.
Discover more about our Pathway programmes here.
We also have a strong creative arts tradition, and scholarships often reflect excellence and potential in areas such as fashion, textiles, fine art and performance.
Scholarships are usually assessed through:
- Portfolio submissions
- Auditions or practical assessments
- Interviews
5. Offers and Acceptance
Following assessment, most schools will issue:
- An offer letter
- Acceptance paperwork
- A deposit request to secure the place
Once accepted, families receive transition information to help their daughter prepare confidently for her new start.
At Prior’s Field School, your daughter will be invited to attend several special events such as, New Girls Tea, for her and her new peer group throughout the summer term.
We also offer parents a full week of activities to build friendships with other parents and to feel a part of our wonderful community.
What Makes Applying to a School Like Prior’s Field Distinctive?
Prior’s Field School has many distinctive exceptional qualities :
- Smaller class sizes
- High levels of individual attention and support
- Strong pastoral care
- A rich co-curricular programme
- Girls are encouraged to be academic and creative
- Is a smartphone-free school
Prior’s Field, in particular, combines academic ambition with a nurturing culture that encourages pupils to develop confidence, resilience and creativity.
The school environment is designed to help girls flourish, whether on stage, in the art studio, in the music department or in the classroom.
Final Advice for Parents
- Visit more than once if possible
- Speak to current pupils
- Ask about wellbeing and pastoral care
- Explore boarding options if relevant
- Consider where your daughter will feel happiest, not just where results are strongest
Choosing an independent girls’ school is about finding the right fit academically, socially and personally. Starting early and engaging with the admissions team will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
If you are interested in discussing a place for your daughter at Prior’s Field School please contact Georgina in our admissions department:
admissions@priorsfieldschool.com
Call: 01483 810551