overseas
admissions
A Global Perspective
Children join our diverse community, embracing our Dragon Values of Kindness, Courage and Respect. At the Dragon, every child is supported to explore their passions, discover their voice, and grow into a confident young person who reaches for the sun.
Our admissions team is experienced in working across key overseas markets and takes the time to understand what matters most to each family. We are lucky to have Parent Ambassadors in many countries who can advise and support new families on a well-trodden path. Once you are part of our enriched community, you will find that the Dragon is experienced in cross-cultural understanding and helps every child develop a global perspective, cultural empathy, and lifelong friendships.
Our global community certainly connects with the symbolism of the Dragon, and our children love being called Dragons!
“We believe cultural sensitivity is about genuine understanding, respect, and partnership. From your very first enquiry to your child’s ongoing journey, we are committed to ensuring that every family feels welcomed, understood, and valued.”
Sarah Leftley, Head of Admissions
Our Overseas Pathway
1
Enquire
Complete a simple form and we’ll send you our prospectus.
2
Visit
Discover the school at one of our Open Mornings, or by booking an individual tour.
3
Register
Complete our registration process to move ahead with the process.
4
Experience
Spend some time at the school and get to know the teachers.
5
Become
Your child is now a Dragon and their adventures can begin!
English Language Fluency
Admissions assessments may include meeting with one of our experienced EAL team and where extra support is needed, we work with families to help children succeed academically and socially. Please note that EAL support may incur an additional charge. We offer both individual and group lessons.
Experience Days and Assessments
Our Experience Days and overnight stays, offer a great opportunity for children to feel the true Dragon spirit and aid transition. Being on our campus allows them to explore our vibrant community, engage with teachers, connect with new friends, and, for prospective boarders, enjoy an exciting overnight stay in one of our boarding houses. For those families who may not be able to visit us in person, we do offer a remote pathway. Online assessments are carried out through trusted organisations such as the British Council or recognised schools.
While we are happy to support both pathways, the in-person experience remains our preferred and recommended pathway as it offers the children the richest experience and an immersive introduction to life as a Dragon and means we can really get to know them.
Pictured: International Day 2025
Acceptance Deposits
Visa and Immigration
Please note that we use the services of an immigration consultant, Sable International, as a trusted partner for all child student and UK Immigration applications. Sable will prepare your child’s CAS (certificate of acceptance of studies), visa application in line with UKVI requirements, and, if needed, liaise directly with the Home Office on your behalf. This compliance service carries a one-off fee of £750+ VAT, which will appear on the first term’s bill and covers the duration of your child’s time at the Dragon.
Details of families are only shared with Sable once a place is secured. For families requiring sponsorship and considering non-boarding pathways, we can offer Day sponsorships for Reception to Year 4 pupils and very occasionally others on a case-by-case basis. We do expect children with sponsored day places to become part of the boarding community once at the Prep. At age 12, all sponsored day pupils must move into full boarding, as required by UKVI regulations (4 nights minimum per week).
Please refer to our guardianship policy for more information on Guardianship Requirements, as this is required by UKVI.
Our Commitment to You
We commit to supporting you and your family wholeheartedly from the first day of your enquiry to the moment your child becomes a fully–fledged Dragon. We offer a warm and friendly pathway with a member of our team always on hand to reassure you. Every application is unique and the detail of your child’s application is handled with care.
Families may apply directly or through genuine agents with whom we collaborate to ensure a smooth admissions pathway.
As an institution, we are committed to the UK Agent Quality Framework (AQF) and pledge to create and maintain the highest standards of agent management, ensuring the UK remains a leading study destination for international students.
Pictured: International Day 2025
As an institution, we are committed to the UK Agent Quality Framework (AQF) and pledge to create and maintain the highest standards of agent management, ensuring the UK remains a leading study destination for international students.
Dragon School hereby commits to:
- Following the principles of the National Code of Ethical Practice for UK Education Agents
- Ensuring all agents representing Dragon School act ethically and in the best interests of pupils
- Providing clear, accurate, and up‑to‑date information to agents and families
- Maintaining oversight of agent activity in line with UKVI expectations
- Working only with reputable agents who understand and follow AQF guidance
What the AQF Means for Dragon School – further information
Please contact our Admissions Team (pictured) to find out more – we are very flexible with time zones!
What is the spirit of the Dragon?
Dragon Tales
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150 Years of the Dragon
Throughout 2027, to mark the 150th anniversary of the School, we will be hosting celebratory events, sharing archival treasures, and ... Read more
Discover the Dragon
Book an Open Morning
There's only one way to properly experience the Dragon, and that is to come and see us in action. We hold Open Mornings every term at both the Pre-Prep and the Prep.
How to apply
When it comes to education, one size doesn’t fit all. Finding the right school is a highly personal, two-way process and our Admissions team are on hand to answer any questions you have.
Call us on +44 (0)1865 315 405 / 413.
Discover Quest
Dragon Quest is our thrilling enrichment program where children learn new skills and try out new things, reaping the benefits of a school that places equal weight on intellectual, emotional, social, and physical development. Some of the activities have direct academic benefits, others are focused on building friendships and life skills.