Elev8

The two years that make all the difference.  

At this time of year, one question dominates school-gate conversations across Wimbledon: which senior school at 11+? We heard it again and again at the recent Donhead Senior School Information Evening, and it is entirely understandable. Securing the right senior school matters enormously. 

But we would invite you to ask a different question first: what might my child gain by staying until 13, and what might they miss by leaving at 11? 

At Danes Hill, we believe Years 7 and 8 are among the most important, rewarding and transformative years of a child’s education. They are not a waiting room before senior school. They are a launch pad. 

The Advantage of Being Top of the School: Leaders not Newcomers
Picture two 12-year-olds. One is captaining a sports team, mentoring younger pupils and taking the lead role in the school production. The other is finding their way as one of the youngest faces in a much larger senior school. 

Staying at a traditional prep school until 13+ means your child spends their final years at the top of the school. Years 7 and 8 pupils lead initiatives, represent the school, and are looked up to every day by younger children. That responsibility builds a quiet, lasting confidence that is very hard to replicate as the youngest in a big new community.  

The Gift of Time to GrowThe developmental difference between an 11-year-old and a 13-year-old is significant. 

In our Upper School, pupils mature emotionally, socially and academically in an environment designed precisely for their age. We see it every year: children who arrive in Year 7 still finding their voice leave Year 8 as independent learners, with firm friendships, new passions and real self-belief. 

They do this among peers of a similar age, rather than sharing corridors every day with 18-year-olds. In a world that asks children to grow up ever faster, there is enormous value in letting them stay children a little longer, while still preparing them exceptionally well for what comes next. 

Elev8: Ready for the world they will inherit 
Our children will build careers in a world we can barely imagine. That is why we created Elev8, an innovative programme for pupils in Years 6, 7 and 8. 

. Elev8 is designed to complement academic learning while equipping pupils with the skills needed to succeed in an ever-changing world. Through dedicated lessons and experiential learning, pupils develop confidence, resilience, adaptability, leadership and problem-solving skills. The programme includes opportunities to explore topics such as artificial intelligence, financial literacy, public speaking and leadership, creating a truly future-focused educational experience. It also strengthens continuity through Years 7 and 8, ensuring pupils benefit from the full breadth of opportunities available within the Upper School. Danes Hill School – Elev8 Information 

A Scholarship Stage for Every Talent
For families considering the Upper School years, Danes Hill offers exciting scholarship opportunities for pupils entering Year 7. 

Our Upper School scholarship programmes are designed to identify and nurture exceptional talent across academics, sport, music, drama, art and design technology. Scholars benefit from enhanced opportunities to develop their strengths, take on leadership responsibilities and pursue excellence within their chosen disciplines. The school’s scholarship framework focuses on developing ambition, creativity, resilience, leadership and independence, helping pupils prepare not only for senior school scholarships but also for future success. Danes Hill School PACE programme 

A Springboard to Outstanding Senior Schools: Better Prepared, Better Placed
Traditionally, prep schools existed to prepare children for senior schools and that remains one of Danes Hill’s greatest strengths. 

Our pupils move on to a wide range of highly regarded 13+ destinations, benefiting from additional academic development, greater leadership experience and increased maturity before making the transition. School such as Wellington College, Cranleigh, Millfield and Brighton College to name just a few. For many families, the extra two years allow children to secure places and scholarships at senior schools that may not have been the right fit at 11+. 

Parents frequently tell us that their children arrive at senior school more confident, more resilient and better prepared because of the experiences they gained in Years 7 and 8. 

Excellence Beyond the Classroom
The Upper School years are about so much more than academics. 

Pupils enjoy extensive sporting opportunities, represent the school at a high level, take part in productions, concerts, residential adventures and leadership programmes, and make full use of exceptional facilities and co-curricular activities. These experiences help children discover their strengths, develop new interests and build memories that stay with them long after they leave. The Elev8 programme further enhances these opportunities through leadership, experiential learning and personal development.  

Easily Accessible from Wimbledon: closer than you think
For Wimbledon families, Danes Hill is closer than many realise. With regular bus services operating between Wimbledon and the school, pupils can enjoy all the benefits of a traditional 13+ prep education while remaining well connected to home. 

Before you decide: look beyond 11+
For some children, 11+ will be exactly the right path. But before you decide, we would encourage every family to consider what the alternative could offer your child.  Because what 13+ really offers is time. 

Time to grow in confidence. Time to lead. Time to mature. Time to enjoy being at the top of the school. And time to prepare thoroughly for a successful move to senior school. 

At Danes Hill, we are proud of an Upper School that helps children make the very most of these precious years, so that they leave us ready not only for outstanding senior schools, but for life.