Claires Court is a selective Independent Day School. Prospective pupils are required to meet certain criteria and we consider these alongside their references, reports and interview. In each intake we admit pupils across a range of abilities. We look for pupils who will make the most of the opportunities and challenges that will lie ahead of them at the Claires Court and who will contribute to and enrich our community.
At Juniors we normally have a minimum of two classes per year group with an average of 16-18 children per class.
At Senior Boys we usually have four forms per year group with around 15-16 boys per form in Year 7 and 8 rising to four forms of 18 in Year 9.
At Senior Girls we have two to three forms per year group with around 15-18 girls per form.
Our Senior School Year 7 cohort is made up in equal thirds:
- Pupils from independent primary schools
- Pupils from state schools
- Pupils from Claires Court Juniors
As such around 60% of pupils join us from around 40 different schools each year. Our Ice Breaker day, held before the start of Year 7, is a perfect way to meet new friends.
Our pupils are incredibly welcoming, kind and caring. As a School, we are used to girls and boys joining from all over the world and we enjoy getting to know them, their families and what experiences they have had in their life so far. Our curriculum can be personalised to the individual. Our teachers ensure that any gaps in knowledge and missing fundamental skills are identified so a plan can put in action to address them. With our small classes, the staff get to know the pupils very quickly and soon know what motivates and interests them.
Whilst girls and boys are taught separately in the classroom, they often work collaboratively, coming together for trips, topic activities, major sporting competitions and outward bound excursions.
There are joint music concerts at both Junior and Senior level as well as combined Christmas Carol Services. Our Senior Boys and Girls, along with Sixth Form take to the stage once a year for our showcase drama and music production that our school community and the general public enjoy.
The regular PTA events are attended by all sections of the School, providing further opportunities to come together as one community.
Our learning philosophy is unique and we believe regular breaks allow our pupils to focus further in their lessons. As such there are two morning breaks, a lunch period and a further afternoon break. Lessons are one hour long.
- 8.35am The normal day starts (registration/assembly and pastoral period)
- 9.10am - Period 1
- 10.10am - Morning break
- 10.30am - Period 2
- 11.30am - Business break
- 11.50am - Period 3
- 12.50pm to 1.40pm - Lunch break
- 140pm - Period 4
- 2.40pm - Afternoon break
- 3.00pm Period 5
- 4pm - the academic school day ends
The range and choice of activities is huge and changes term to term. So whether it’s Textiles or Aeroplane building, being part of a Rock Choir or Sailing there is something for everyone…. including a homework/study club, always a favourite to help busy parents!
Activities and prep are available Monday - Thursday each week and are booked online in advance. Activities/prep finish at 5.25pm in time for the school coaches to leave for the day. Most activities are included in the school fees and prep is supported by our teachers.
Please visit Our Open Events Page for the latest dates and information
The school operates an extensive coach service covering many local towns and villages. We use the specialist transport management company Vectare to coordinate the school transport service and currently offer 11 routes.
More Information can be found on our School Transport Page.
Claires Court offers a range of Scholarships to recognise students with outstanding achievement, talent and perhaps above all, potential. They are available to pupils entering Years 7, 8 and 9, and the Sixth Form.
The awards recognise a scholar’s contribution of talent and excellence to the School. Some awards give pupils access to individual specialist instruction and coaching throughout their time at Claires Court. Scholarships are offered across a variety of fields, including: academia, music, sport, art and drama.
The programme for each September entry closes on the previous January prior to intake. Assessments are in January. The Admissions team launches the programme in October prior to the preceding year of entry. All applicants are required to to be registered with the school for entry.
Please find more information on our Scholarships Page.
We welcome your application to be submitted via a registration form which can be found here.