Proudly Non-Selective

We are proud to be an academically non-selective school. We offer places to girls who we believe will thrive, develop and benefit from all the opportunities on offer here at Lyonsdown.

We do not believe that there is any benefit in asking very young children to take part in an academic testing process. Children all develop at different rates and a ‘one size fits all’ entry criteria can put undue stress on both the child and her family. Instead we ask our youngest prospective pupils, the girls joining in Pre-Reception and Reception, to spend some time with our Head. We call this our ‘Compass Conversation’ and it is when we get to know your daughter via a fun and friendly conversation that enables us to establish her individual needs. If we can cater to the needs of your daughter, bearing in mind our obligations under the equality Act 2010, we will offer her a place. If we believe that your daughter has needs that we cannot support, we will help, where possible, to signpost you in the direction of alternative school choices.

We are proud to be non-selective at entry and then to help girls prepare for a future that’s right for them. Our girls are not only prepared to secure senior school places at some of London’s top independent and selective state schools but are also prepared to thrive once there. We support every girl to help them to find the right senior school that fits her particular aptitudes, interests and personality.  In the last 3 years, Year 6 Lyonsdown girls have received: 22 Scholarships offers 96 school place offers.