Colchester Prep & High School
11+ Admissions Guide 2026

Colchester Prep and High School is a co-educational independent day school founded in 1882, and has been part of the Cognita group of schools since 2005. The school welcomes children from the age of 2 through to 16, with three sections covering the youngest children up to age 5, a prep school for ages 5 to 11, and a senior school for ages 11 to 16. The school aims to build a brighter future for all, preparing children to become the changemakers of tomorrow's world through an inspiring education that builds self-belief and empowers individuals to succeed. It seeks to provide a holistic education within a safe, happy, and supportive environment where every child can thrive as a valued and respected member of an inclusive community. Pupils come from a range of professional and business backgrounds. The school supports pupils with a variety of needs, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities such as dyslexia and dyspraxia, as well as pupils for whom English is an additional language. The most able pupils are also identified and the curriculum is adapted to meet their needs.