I don’t know if Peddie takes “more than average” but there are a few every year. Occasionally they apply after the usual timeline on a “rolling” basis. The school has a reputation for strong STEM (its well deserved) but the History and English departments are excellent. Each year there are a few very accomplished musicians.
Having said that, I think somewhat commonly kids reclass and come in as repeat 10th graders. Is this something you have considered?