Arnold Lodge School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Type: Co-educational independent day school
• Age Range: 4-18 years
• Location: Kenilworth Road, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire CV32 5TW
• Head Teacher: Mr David Preston
• Total Pupils: Approximately 459 students
• Termly Fees: £4,200 to £5,272
• Contact: +44 1926 778050
• Scholarships: Available for new entrants and siblings

About Arnold Lodge School

Founded in 1864, Arnold Lodge School has evolved from its origins as a boys' school to become a thriving co-educational institution serving families in Leamington Spa and the surrounding Warwickshire area. The school's transformation to co-education in the 1970s marked the beginning of its modern era, establishing a reputation for academic excellence whilst maintaining its commitment to developing confident, well-rounded young people.

Located on Kenilworth Road in the heart of Royal Leamington Spa, the school benefits from the town's excellent transport links and cultural heritage. The institution's holistic approach to education prioritises pupil happiness and confidence alongside academic achievement, creating an environment where students aged 4-18 can flourish both personally and academically.

Arnold Lodge School has developed particular strength at GCSE level, with pupils consistently achieving excellent results that open doors to leading sixth forms and universities. The school's relatively modest size of 459 pupils allows for personalised attention and strong pastoral care, ensuring each child receives the support they need to maximise their potential.

Fees and key dates for 2026/27

Arnold Lodge School publishes day fees of £6,900 (Years 7 to 11) per term for 2026/27, and the figures above come from the school's own fees page as checked in September 2026. Registration for the next 11+ round closes on Friday 2nd October 2026 (for the Year 7 Assessment Day). The assessment takes place on Tuesday 6th October 2026, 9:00am, 3:00pm (Year 7 entry, for September 2027 entry). Assessment day combines formal English and Maths tests with taster sessions and team-building/ice-breaker activities alongside current Year 7 pupils. Fees and dates change each year, so the school's website remains the reference for the current round.

The 11+ Assessment Process at Arnold Lodge School

Arnold Lodge School employs a comprehensive assessment process for Year 7 entry that evaluates both academic ability and personal suitability for the school's supportive learning environment. The assessment typically takes place during the autumn term prior to entry.

Academic Assessments:

• English comprehension and written expression
• Mathematics problem-solving and numerical reasoning
• Verbal and non-verbal reasoning tasks

Personal Assessment:

• Informal interview to discuss interests and motivations
• Taster day experience within the school environment
• Observation of social interaction and adaptability

The school seeks pupils who will thrive in their collaborative learning environment and contribute positively to the school community. Assessments are designed to identify potential rather than simply test current achievement, reflecting the school's commitment to developing each child's unique talents.

How to Apply to Arnold Lodge School

The admissions process for Arnold Lodge School requires careful planning and early engagement with the school community:

Step 1: Initial Research
Visit the school's website and request a prospectus to understand their educational philosophy and approach.

Step 2: School Visit
Arrange a personal tour or attend an open day to experience the school atmosphere and meet key staff members.

Step 3: Application Submission
Complete the official application form with all required documentation and submit by the published deadline.

Step 4: Assessment Process
Attend the scheduled assessment day, which includes academic tests and personal interviews.

Step 5: Decision and Acceptance
Receive the admissions decision and complete acceptance procedures including deposit payment.

Early registration is strongly recommended, as the school's reputation for academic excellence and pastoral care ensures high demand for places. Families should contact the admissions office at +44 1926 778050 to begin the process.

Preparing for the Arnold Lodge School 11+ with Taylor Tuition

The Arnold Lodge School 11+ rewards steady preparation over a year or so, with the last term given to timed practice and interview confidence. Having prepared pupils for entry to leading independent and grammar schools, with placements including Westminster, St Paul's, Wycombe Abbey and Eton, our tutors match the programme to the school's assessment format and to where the child is starting from.

Because the pool includes former heads of department, exam-board examiners and teachers from independent and boarding schools, and more than half of our tutors hold Qualified Teacher Status, families get a tutor who understands what the assessors are looking for. Every tutor who works with children holds an enhanced DBS check.

Families work with us online from anywhere in the UK or abroad, and in person in central London. Fees start from £50 per 50-minute session and depend on tutor level and subject, with no registration fee and a free initial consultation to talk through your child's current level and the timeline to the 11+. Families receive progress reports after sessions and have a dedicated point of contact, and we reply to enquiries within one working day with tutor recommendations.

Read more about our 11+ entrance exam tutors, or send an enquiry and we will come back with tutor recommendations.