The British School in Colombo admits children of any religion, race, colour, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programmes and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the School, provided that there are openings available.  It does not discriminate on the basis of religion, race, colour, national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, scholarship programmes or other school administered programmes.

Enrolment normally takes place before the beginning of the academic year (August) or during the year in the case of students transferring from other schools.  Admissions part way through the year are avoided as much as possible, although in the early years these guidelines are more relaxed and depend on the readiness of the individual child to begin school.  The student’s age should tally appropriately with the age of the students in the year group they wish to join.

Progression from one year to the next is subject to students having fulfilled their commitments to academic improvement, good behaviour and respect for the School Rules, and this may be refused if, after full discussion between all involved, it is felt that it is not in the child’s best interest.  This includes advancement from Year 6 to Form 1.

Junior School 

Candidates for Foundation (Nursery, Play Group, Reception) and Key Stage One (Years 1 and 2) are assessed by a Key Stage Co-ordinator to determine their stage of development including communication, fine motor skills, language and social skills.  The child’s emotional, mental, physical and social development, are all taken into account when assessing readiness for the school.  Candidates for Year 3 to Year 6 sit modified UK Standard Attainment Tasks in English and Mathematics to assess their levels of achievement in relation to the UK National Curriculum.  Records and letters of recommendation from previous schools are also considered if applicable.

Senior School

Candidates for admission to Form 1 to Upper Sixth sit examinations in English and Mathematics to determine their suitability for a particular year group.  For examination years (Form 5 and upwards) we may require candidates to sit tests in other subjects as well.  The length of these examinations varies between one hour and one and a half hours according to the age group.  A syllabus outlining the topics likely to be covered in the examinations is available from the school.  Students are usually required to achieve 50% in each of these examinations in order to be considered for admission.  In addition the school takes into account testimonials of the candidate’s academic performance, behaviour and level of participation and commitment from the previous school; participation and performance in extra-curricular activities such as sports, societies, music, drama, etc. is also taken into consideration when admitting new students.  The Division Head will also normally interview candidates to discuss subject choices, etc.

Prior to admission, the Principal or Head of the Junior School will meet with the child and parents.  Fees must be paid in full before the child’s first day at the school.

For all enrolment enquiries please e-mail admin@britishschool.lk