Admissions at 11+: Frequently Asked Questions

There is no mould into which we try to cram our pupils. We want to have the pleasure of educating imaginative, alert, interested pupils who are keen to develop their talents, be they academic, musical, artistic, dramatic, sporting – or all of the above! We want to create a happy, thriving school of socially confident individuals who value each other, themselves, and the wider world.

I have returned the Application Form and fee to the school. What happens next?

We will write to acknowledge their receipt. All candidates will be contacted again in December giving final details for the entry tests in January.

Do you offer scholarships and bursaries?

Yes, we do. Scholarships are awarded on academic achievement in the tests and interviews irrespective of family financial circumstances. You can apply for a bursary if you need help with the fees. Further details on scholarships are available here; further details on bursaries are available here; or contact Robert Wilne, the Director of Sir Roger Cholmeley's Charity (robert.wilne@highgateschool.org.uk or 020 8347 2102).

I have not yet seen round the school. When is it possible to arrange a visit?

There are Senior School Open Mornings throughout the year in term time, usually on a Tuesday or Wednesday. A reservation can be made by telephoning the Admissions Coordinator on 020 8347 3564. During the visit there is a talk given by the Head Master for parents and a separate presentation for their children. You will also be taken round the school by a pupil then, over coffee, will have the opportunity to meet teaching staff. You are encouraged to bring your child with you.

I find that I cannot now attend the Open Morning on the day I have arranged. What should I do?

Please let the Admissions Coordinator know as soon as possible as she may have other families waiting for a cancellation. She will try to give you an alternative date to attend. However, at certain times of the year demand for places at Open Mornings can be very high, so we would ask for your understanding.

What happens if we are applying from abroad?

Those who are abroad can usually take the entrance tests at their school abroad but will need to visit the UK for an interview before we can offer a place. We require students who join us to be living with one or both parents in London.

When do the tests take place?

In January of the year of your child’s possible entry in September, we will ask you to bring him or her to the school for some simple tests.

What subjects will our child be tested in?

At present candidates sit papers in Maths, English and non-verbal reasoning. These tests are designed to be as straightforward as we can make them: we try to administer them with a light touch, as we appreciate that the experience of sitting an entrance test can be a very unsettling one for a child. Even at interview, we want children to enjoy their experience of being at Highgate Junior School. Candidates are not expected to require significant special preparation. We receive a confidential reference from your child's Head.

What academic standard will you require?

Highgate is academically selective but we do not believe that education simply consists of collecting examination grades. We are looking to welcome students into Year 7 who will contribute positively to our academic environment. Therefore at age 11 we are looking for strong verbal, mathematical and reasoning skills and a lively curiosity, as well as the ability and enthusiasm to benefit from the wider education we offer.

What happens after the entry tests?

A significant proportion of candidates are called for interview about two weeks after the tests. Parents can wait while their child is being interviewed.

When will we hear whether our child has a place?

Letters will be sent out on a date in late February or early March agreed each year by a number of independent schools. Those who have been successful are given an unconditional place.

If our child has been successful at more than one school, can I hold more than one place?

No, about a week after the offers are sent out we will need a definite acceptance. The contract between us will involve your making only one such acceptance. You will be sent our standard Terms and Conditions and they are available in advance on request.

Would our child be made to take further tests at age 13?

No, subject to normally excellent effort and behaviour, it is expected that your child will continue without any further hurdles to GCSE and beyond, although transition to the sixth form will require all families to decide whether the school’s academic programme is suitable for their child as she or he matures.

We already have a child at Highgate. Will our other child(ren) automatically be offered a place?

Although we give particularly careful consideration to siblings, we do not give them priority and are not always able to offer them places. Because of the competitive entry procedure to the school, each child is assessed on his or her individual merits.

Download an application form for 11+ entry
View Criteria for Entry at 11+

You may also download samples of our 11+ assessment tests in Mathematics and English.

11+ Assessment sample Mathematics test
11+ Assessment sample English test

For a prospectus or further information, please contact:
the Admissions Coordinator
Highgate School
North Road
London N6 4AY
Tel: (020) 8347 3564
Fax: (020) 8340 7674
Email: admissions@highgateschool.org.uk