Holmwood House School
11+ Admissions Guide 2026

Holmwood House School is a co-educational day and boarding school for pupils aged from six months to thirteen years, set across two sites on the outskirts of Colchester. The nursery is based in Great Horkesley and welcomes children from six months to four years, while the prep school in Lexden serves pupils from age three to thirteen. Pupils in Years 4 to 8 have the option of an overnight stay during the week. Founded in 1922, the school became co-educational in 1985 and is now overseen by an educational trust whose directors form the governing body. The school's vision is to spark curiosity and ignite wonder in every child, providing an inspiring environment full of opportunities for discovery. It aims to nurture individuality, confidence and tenacity, helping each pupil to reach their potential and feel prepared for life ahead. Pupils come from a range of professional and business backgrounds in the Colchester area. The school supports 41 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, all of whom receive additional specialist help, and classroom teachers provide support for pupils for whom English is an additional language. The curriculum is also adapted for pupils with particular talents in music, sport and the creative arts.