Moving on to Senior School

As a proud member of the Dean Close Foundation, many pupils progress to Dean Close Senior School in Cheltenham, where they are guaranteed a place, provided they meet the curriculum requirements.

Some pupils may already have 11+ scholarships, which continue until they reach 18, while others can apply for 13+ scholarships. Both schools work closely with parents to ensure a smooth transition, encouraging early conversations during the Preparatory School years.

Convenient AccessA direct train link connects Chepstow to Cheltenham in just 40 minutes. Dean Close Senior School is a short walk from Cheltenham station. Visit Dean Close School website for more details: www.deanclose.org.uk

Boarding Discount for St John's PupilsSt John’s pupils receive a generous discount on the boarding package at the Senior School. For more information, please contact Admissions by email at registar@deanclose.org.uk or call 01442 258044.

TimelineSome pupils will already have a Dean Close 11+ scholarship that will carry through to age 18, whilst others can apply for 13+ scholarships.  Both schools are here to help parents with the process of transferring to Dean Close School, and we encourage ongoing conversations at any stage of Prep school. Here is an example timeline to walk you through the process.

1. Conversations with Tom Rainer, Head of Dean Close St John's School, and the Admissions Team at Dean Close School, headed by Kelly Serjeant.
    
2. Dean Close School warmly invites you to visit in person or online to address your questions and provide valuable insights into life at the school. Please attend a Dean Close School Open Morning or request a personal visit (email registrar@deanclose.org.uk or phone 01242 258000).
    
3. Register  - registration form supplied by Dean Close School Admissions Office. The registration fee is waived for Dean Close St John's pupils.
    

13+ Scholarship at Dean Close School

If you are interested in applying for a 13+ Scholarship please contact the Dean Close Admissions Team email registrar@deanclose.org.uk or phone 01242 258000

Please see the Dean Close 13+ Scholarships with all Entry information, including application and assessment deadlines here.

Meet Dean Close School Head and Directors at St John's School

Bradley Salisbury (Head of Dean Close School), Dominic Neville (External Relationship Director) and Mathew Madeley (Parents Finance Manager) will be visiting St John's during this academic year to meet with parents and discuss options and finances.

For dates, please email admissions@deanclosestjohns.org.uk.
 

 

While Dean Close School provides a smooth transition process for our pupils and offers excellent continuation packages, including discounted boarding options, moving on to Dean Close is not the only pathway available.

Our pupils go on to a wide range of respected senior schools, including Clifton College, Christ College Brecon, Marlborough College, Malvern St James, Haberdashers’ Monmouth School, Shrewsbury School, Wycliffe College, and King’s School Gloucester.

Many of our pupils go on to earn scholarships to leading senior schools. St John’s has a proud tradition of Sport and Academic Scholars, and our pupils also excel in Drama, Art, and Music, often earning scholarships in these areas as well.

What truly sets our pupils apart is the leadership skills they develop here. Many take on leadership roles at their senior schools, confident, capable, and ready to make an impact. A St John’s education provides a strong academic and personal foundation, equipping pupils for success in the world beyond the school gates.