The Half Term Check-In: Is Your Child on Track for September Entry?

ukindepschool
May 28
2 min read

Half term is more than a breather—it's a golden opportunity to regroup, reset, and realign your child’s school application journey. Whether you're aiming for 2025 or 2026 entry into a UK independent school, now is the time to assess progress, fill any gaps, and plan the next steps with confidence.

Here’s a practical mid-year check-in for parents—especially those juggling deadlines, prep, and the school search all at once.

✅ Quick Checklist: Are You On Track?

Use this list as a gentle nudge or a helpful guide, depending on where you are in the process.

🔍 1. Research & Shortlisting

Have you researched and shortlisted 3–5 schools that suit your child academically, socially, and logistically?
Do you understand the school’s ethos, curriculum, and entry points?

📝 Tip: Now is the time to revisit websites, request prospectuses, or even speak to current parents through forums or consulting networks.

🗓️ 2. School Visits & Open Days

Have you attended in-person or virtual open days?
Do you have school tours booked for the summer term?
Have you considered visiting schools during the holidays if term-time visits aren't possible?

📌 Note: Many families abroad or relocating will do private visits—reach out to admissions early to arrange these.

✏️ 3. Academic Preparation & Coaching

Has your child started age-appropriate assessment preparation (11+, 13+, Pre-test)?
Are they working on English comprehension, creative writing, maths, and reasoning regularly?
Have you received any tutoring or coaching feedback?

🎯 Insight: Even 30 minutes a day can make a difference at this stage. Look for signs of progress and motivation.

💼 4. Application Planning

Do you know your target schools’ registration deadlines?
Have you registered already or set calendar reminders for key dates?
Are you clear on the documents needed (e.g., school reports, birth certificate, passport)?

📅 Tip: Registration for top London and boarding schools can close 12–18 months in advance!

🧠 5. References & Reports

Have you discussed the application with your child’s current teacher or head?
Are you confident they will write a supportive academic reference?
Have you reviewed recent school reports for academic or behavioural flags?

👂 Pro tip: References carry more weight than most realise—keep your current school in the loop.

🧳 6. Wellbeing & Readiness

Does your child feel involved in the process?
Are they excited, anxious, or indifferent about the transition?
Do they have chances to practise independence and responsibility?

🌱 Reminder: A confident mindset matters as much as academic readiness—especially for interviews and transitions.

💬 Book a Free Half-Term Consultation

Feeling behind or unsure which schools really suit your child?

🎓 I offer personalised consultations for families aiming for 2025/2026 entry—whether you're just beginning or need to refine your shortlist. We’ll map out your child’s journey and ensure no opportunity is missed.