• The school is intellectually ambitious, warm and forward looking, and aims to help pupils excel academically while remaining curious, confident and well supported.

• Will suit families wanting an academically ambitious Cambridge school where children are challenged, known well and expected to think for themselves.

Admissions at Stephen Perse feel selective and academically focused, and should appeal to families seeking a Cambridge all-through school where intellectual ambition and pastoral care are both visible. The school should suit parents who want children to be stretched, known individually and able to move through a coherent family of schools over time.

Scholarships, financial assistance and bursaries are all visible parts of the current admissions offer, especially as pupils move into older year groups. For many families, though, the bigger draw is the combination of Cambridge location, academic rigour and long-term continuity.

The overall picture is energetic, modern and academically serious, with the school emphasising inspirational teaching, strong pastoral care and pupils being seen, known and understood. Parents should still visit because the important question is whether the pace, expectations and Cambridge city rhythm feel exciting and sustainable for their child.