Ashville College: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Type: Independent co-educational day and boarding school
• Age Range: 2-18 years
• Location: Green Lane, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG2 9JP
• Headteacher: Mrs Rhiannon Wilkinson
• Pupil Numbers: Approximately 803 students
• Day Fees: £990-£6,054 per term
• Boarding: Weekly/flexible boarding available (full boarding ceasing July 2025)
• Founded: 1877
• Ethos: Methodist foundation, welcoming all backgrounds

About Ashville College

Founded in 1877, Ashville College occupies a distinguished position within Harrogate's educational landscape. This Methodist-founded institution has evolved into a thriving co-educational community that welcomes families from diverse backgrounds whilst maintaining its core values of academic excellence and personal development.

Located on Green Lane in the heart of Harrogate, the college benefits from the town's reputation as one of Yorkshire's most desirable locations. The school's campus provides an ideal environment where students aged 2 to 18 can flourish academically and socially. With approximately 803 pupils, Ashville maintains an intimate atmosphere that allows for personalised attention whilst offering the facilities and opportunities typically associated with larger institutions.

The college's Methodist heritage continues to influence its ethos, emphasising integrity, compassion, and service to others. This foundation creates a supportive community where students develop not only academically but also as confident, well-rounded individuals prepared for future challenges.

Ashville College offers both day and boarding options, with flexible arrangements to suit modern family needs. The school's boarding provision, whilst ceasing full boarding in July 2025, continues to offer weekly and flexible boarding for families requiring these arrangements.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Ashville College employs a comprehensive assessment process for Year 7 entry that evaluates each candidate's academic potential and personal qualities. The school's approach recognises that children develop at different rates and seeks to identify those who will thrive within the college's academic environment.

Assessment Components

The entrance assessment typically includes:

• Cognitive Ability Tests (CATs): These evaluate verbal, numerical, and spatial reasoning abilities, providing insight into a child's learning potential
• English Assessment: Tests reading comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, and written expression skills
• Mathematics Assessment: Covers arithmetic, problem-solving, and mathematical reasoning appropriate to Year 6 level
• Interview Process: Personal discussion to understand the child's interests, motivations, and suitability for the school community

Assessment Timing and Format

The assessment process is carefully designed to reduce anxiety whilst providing accurate evaluation of each candidate's abilities. The school ensures that children feel comfortable and supported throughout the process, recognising that entrance assessments can be challenging for young people.

Parents receive detailed feedback regarding their child's performance, with the admissions team available to discuss results and provide guidance on next steps, regardless of the outcome.

How to Apply

The application process for Ashville College is designed to be straightforward whilst ensuring the school can properly evaluate each candidate's suitability.

Application Steps

1. Initial Enquiry: Contact the admissions office to discuss your child's educational needs and the school's offerings

2. School Visit: Attend an open event or arrange a private tour to experience the college's atmosphere and facilities firsthand

3. Application Submission: Complete the online application form through the school's website, including all required documentation

4. Assessment Arrangement: The school will schedule your child's assessment session and provide detailed information about what to expect

5. Assessment Day: Your child will participate in the evaluation process in a supportive, familiar environment

6. Interview: If required, attend a personal interview to discuss your child's interests and educational goals

7. Decision Communication: Receive notification of the admissions decision with detailed feedback

Key Dates and Deadlines

Prospective families should consult the school's website for current application deadlines and assessment dates. The admissions team recommends early application to ensure optimal scheduling and preparation time.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

At Taylor Tuition, we understand the unique challenges facing families seeking admission to prestigious institutions like Ashville College. Our comprehensive preparation programme is specifically designed to help your child demonstrate their full potential during the assessment process.

Tailored Preparation Programme

Our experienced tutors provide personalised preparation that addresses each component of Ashville College's assessment process:

• Cognitive Ability Test Preparation: Targeted practice with verbal, numerical, and spatial reasoning questions to build confidence and technique
• English Skills Development: Comprehensive support for reading comprehension, grammar, vocabulary expansion, and creative writing
• Mathematics Mastery: Focused revision of key mathematical concepts with emphasis on problem-solving strategies and exam technique
• Interview Preparation: Mock interviews and confidence-building exercises to help your child articulate their interests and aspirations effectively

Strategic Application Support

Beyond academic preparation, our team provides invaluable guidance throughout the application process. We help families understand Ashville College's specific requirements, prepare compelling applications, and navigate the admissions timeline effectively.

Our tutors, many of whom are former independent school teachers, bring insider knowledge of what schools like Ashville College seek in prospective students. This expertise enables us to provide targeted advice that significantly enhances your child's prospects of success.

With our proven track record of helping families secure places at leading independent schools across Yorkshire and beyond, Taylor Tuition serves as your trusted partner in achieving your educational aspirations. Contact us today to discuss how we can support your child's journey to Ashville College.