Bedford Girls' School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Type: Independent day school for girls aged 7-18
• Location: Cardington Road, Bedford, Bedfordshire MK42 0BX
• Headmistress: Mrs Gemma Gibson
• Student Body: Approximately 980 pupils
• Day Fees: £3,907 to £5,491 per term
• Academic Results: 78% of A Level and IB entries awarded A*-B grades (2023)
• University Success: 90% of Upper Sixth leavers secured first-choice university places (2023)
• Contact: +44 1234 361900 | admissions@bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk

About Bedford Girls' School

Bedford Girls' School operates under the prestigious Harpur Trust, providing exceptional education exclusively for girls in a purpose-built environment that celebrates female achievement. Located in the heart of Bedford, this thriving academic community serves nearly 1,000 pupils from Reception through to Sixth Form, fostering confidence and academic excellence in a supportive, all-girls setting.

The school's commitment to holistic development extends far beyond the classroom, with over 1,000 sports fixtures annually demonstrating the breadth of opportunities available. This remarkable figure reflects the school's dedication to developing well-rounded young women who excel academically whilst pursuing diverse interests and talents.

As part of the Harpur Trust's educational portfolio, Bedford Girls' School benefits from significant investment in facilities and resources, including state-of-the-art science laboratories, performing arts spaces, and sports facilities. The school's ethos centres on empowering girls to achieve their full potential in an environment specifically designed to understand and nurture female learning styles.

The school's academic programme balances rigorous scholarship with innovative teaching methods, preparing pupils for the demands of higher education and beyond. With both A Level and International Baccalaureate pathways available in the Sixth Form, students benefit from flexibility in their educational journey whilst maintaining the highest academic standards.

The 11+ Assessment Process at Bedford Girls' School

Bedford Girls' School employs a comprehensive assessment process designed to identify pupils who will thrive in their academically challenging yet supportive environment. The entrance examination typically takes place in January and evaluates candidates across multiple disciplines to ensure a fair and thorough assessment of their potential.

Assessment Components:

• Mathematics: Focus on problem-solving abilities, numerical reasoning, and mathematical concepts appropriate for Year 6 pupils
• English: Evaluation of reading comprehension, creative writing skills, and language understanding
• Verbal Reasoning: Testing logical thinking and the ability to understand and manipulate language-based concepts
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Assessment of spatial awareness and pattern recognition using visual and diagrammatic information

The school designs these assessments to be challenging yet age-appropriate, ensuring that all candidates can demonstrate their abilities effectively. The examination format allows pupils to showcase their strengths across different areas, recognising that academic potential manifests in various ways.

Following the written assessments, selected candidates may be invited for an interview, providing an opportunity for the school to understand each pupil's interests, motivations, and potential contribution to the school community.

How to Apply

The application process for Year 7 entry at Bedford Girls' School follows a structured timeline designed to support both families and the school in making informed decisions:

Step-by-Step Application Process:

• Registration: Complete the online registration form available on the school website, submitting all required documentation and the registration fee
• School Visit: Attend an Open Day or arrange a private tour to experience the school environment and meet staff
• Assessment Day: Candidates sit the entrance examinations, typically held in January, in a supportive and familiar environment
• Interview Process: Selected candidates participate in interviews with senior staff members
• Offer Communication: Families receive notification of outcomes promptly following the assessment process

The Admissions Team at Bedford Girls' School provides comprehensive support throughout the application journey. Families are encouraged to contact the admissions office at +44 1234 361918 or admissions@bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk for guidance on any aspect of the process.

The school also offers scholarship and bursary opportunities for both new entrants and existing pupils, ensuring that financial circumstances do not prevent access to exceptional education. Details of available support can be discussed confidentially with the admissions team.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

At Taylor Tuition, we possess extensive experience in preparing pupils for Bedford Girls' School's entrance requirements, understanding both the academic standards expected and the school's distinctive educational philosophy. Our tailored approach ensures that each pupil develops the skills and confidence necessary to excel in the assessment process whilst genuinely preparing for success in the school environment.

Our Comprehensive Preparation Programme:

• Diagnostic Assessment: We begin with a thorough evaluation of your daughter's current abilities across all examination areas, identifying strengths to build upon and areas requiring focused development
• Targeted Mathematics Preparation: Our tutors develop problem-solving skills and mathematical reasoning abilities, ensuring familiarity with the question styles and time pressures of the Bedford Girls' School assessment
• English Excellence: We focus on advanced comprehension techniques and creative writing skills, helping pupils articulate their thoughts clearly and persuasively
• Reasoning Skills Development: Both verbal and non-verbal reasoning receive dedicated attention, with structured practice designed to build confidence and accuracy

Our Bedford Girls' School Expertise:

Our tutors understand the specific requirements of Bedford Girls' School's assessment process and the school's expectations for incoming pupils. We provide realistic practice conditions, comprehensive feedback, and strategic guidance on examination technique, ensuring pupils approach assessment day with confidence.

Beyond academic preparation, we help families understand the school's ethos and values, ensuring that both pupils and parents are well-prepared for the transition to this exceptional educational environment. Our ongoing support includes guidance on scholarship applications and preparation for the interview process where applicable.

Contact Taylor Tuition today to discuss how we can support your daughter's journey to Bedford Girls' School, providing the expert guidance and personalised preparation that gives families confidence in their educational choices.