The HSA collaboration with EST offers pupils seamless all-through journey to 18
Pupils at Halstead St Andrew's (HSA) benefit from a unique admissions process that provides a seamless pathway between HSA and the Effingham Schools Trust (EST).
The collaboration strengthens the senior school pathways available for pupils beyond Year 8 and brings together HSA with Cranmore and St Teresa’s, two highly regarded senior schools within EST.
It creates a clear and supportive progression route for pupils through to age 18 while preserving the distinctive identity and independence of each school.
The collaboration aligns schools that share a commitment to outstanding academic standards, exceptional pastoral care and a values-driven approach to education.
Both HSA and EST both strongly believe that Year 7 and 8 prep school education gives pupils both academic and leadership skills to best prepare them for Year 9 and beyond.
The collaboration provides HSA pupils with a defined pathway into Year 9 at Cranmore or St Teresa’s, while the school will continue to prepare pupils for the 11+ and support families in choosing from a wide range of Senior school destinations.
What this means for your child
What is the ‘Pathway’?
The Pathway refers specifically to Year 9 entry, offering students a structured route into Effingham Schools Trust at this stage of their education.
Year 7 Admissions
Both HSA and EST are in agreement that the pathway represents the perfect balance for HSA pupils. Entry into Cranmore or St Teresa's in Year 7 is therefore not encouraged. In the unlikely event that a Year 7 place would be offered at an EST school for an HSA pupil, all benefits of the pathway explained below would not apply.
Access to EST Facilities and Resources
Pupils on the Pathway will benefit from access to EST’s high-quality facilities and resources, supporting both their academic progress and wider development.
Guaranteed Place
Pupils on the Pathway will be offered a guaranteed place at EST, subject to meeting the agreed requirements. This provides reassurance and continuity for families planning ahead.
No 11+ Examination
There is no 11+ examination requirement for students entering via the Pathway, reducing pressure and making the transition more accessible.
Interview Process
As part of the process, pupils will attend an interview, allowing the school to get to know each individual and ensure the Pathway is the right fit.
Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCP)
Applications for pupils with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) will be considered in line with statutory guidance, ensuring appropriate support and provision are in place.
Financial Support and Scholarships
Bursaries awarded at HSA will be honoured into Year 9 at EST. From Year 10 onwards, bursaries will be externally means tested
Scholarships awarded at HSA will be honoured into Year 9. EST scholarships will continue for the duration of a pupils time at EST
Transport
From September 2027, a dedicated HSA direct minibus service will run each day from the HSA site
A discounted rate will apply for HSA pupils
Pupils will also have the flexibility to use any EST minibus service
A late bus service (Lion Retail) will be available to support pupils attending after-school activities
Sibling discounts
For families with children across both HSA and EST schools, sibling discounts will apply
The collaboration provides HSA pupils with a defined pathway into Year 9 at Cranmore or St Teresa’s, while the school will continue to prepare pupils for the 11+ and support families in choosing from a wide range of Senior school destinations.
