- Work Hard
- 7th Jan 2026
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Think entrance exams are scary? Dame Allan’s is doing things differently
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School entrance exams can feel daunting, but at Dame Allan’s Schools in Newcastle, the process is being reimagined – and for 2026, it’s changing in a big way.
Next year marks a momentous milestone for Dame Allan’s, as the school becomes fully co-educational for the first time, with boys and girls learning side by side across the Junior School, Senior School and Sixth Form.
And is reflected right from the very beginning, with entrance assessments designed to feel more welcoming, relaxed and genuinely enjoyable.
WHAT’S NEW FOR 2026?
The overall structure of the entrance exams remains similar to last year, but there’s one significant change: for the first time, boys and girls will be assessed together.
This means prospective pupils will attend the same assessment day, take part in shared activities and experience the school exactly as they would once enrolled. It’s a move that mirrors everyday life at Dame Allan’s – and the wider world beyond the school gates.
While the academic element remains important, the focus is firmly on creating an experience that feels accessible rather than intimidating.
A DAY DESIGNED TO PUT PUPILS AT EASE
From the moment pupils arrive, they’re welcomed by friendly Sixth Form students who act as buddies throughout the day, helping to calm nerves and answer questions. There’s no school uniform required – pupils are encouraged to wear their own clothes, so they feel comfortable and confident.
Arrival times are staggered to keep things calm and unhurried, before pupils move into small groups for the digital assessment. This one-hour online test covers maths, English, verbal and non-verbal reasoning, and is designed to be clear, well-paced and manageable.
IT’S NOT ALL ABOUT EXAMS
Once the assessment is complete, the day shifts focus from testing to connection. Pupils take part in small group interviews with a teacher, which are informal and friendly.
These sessions allow staff to learn more about each child’s interests, personality and how they interact with others, while giving pupils the chance to chat, and make new friends. Drinks and snacks are provided too, keeping the atmosphere relaxed.
The day finishes in the Sports Hall, where pupils take part in a range of team-building games and activities. From obstacle courses to problem-solving challenges, everything is designed to encourage teamwork, communication and confidence – especially important as boys and girls experience the day together for the first time.
FINDING THE RIGHT FIT
Rebecca, Head of Admissions at Dame Allan’s Schools, explains the thinking behind the approach:
“School is where children make friends for life, grow academically and create shared memories. It’s so important to find the right fit, which is why we’re always looking at how our entrance assessment days can be fun, exciting and accessible for prospective pupils.”
MORE THAN AN ASSESSMENT
At Dame Allan’s, entrance exams are no longer just about results. They’re about helping pupils feel seen, supported and excited about what’s next.
With the move to co-education and a focus on fun, collaboration and confidence, the 2026 entrance assessment day is set to be a memorable first step into school life – not a stressful hurdle to overcome.
Senior School exam date – Saturday 31st January 2026
Offers released – Monday 2nd March 2026
For more information or support, please contact the Head of Admissions on 0191 275 0608 or email [email protected].
Rachael Ellis
Head of Content
After gaining a first in her BA Media and Journalism degree at Northumbria University, Rachael worked at Newcastle’s leading regional newspaper with her stories being picked up in national and global newspapers. She spent two very successful years giving a voice to those communities across the North East who otherwise…
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