Key Information Summary
- School Type: Independent co-educational day school
- Age Range: 7-18 years
- Location: Manton Lane, Bedford MK41 7NT
- Head: Mr David Payne
- Student Numbers: Approximately 1,282
- Termly Fees: £4,108 to £5,636
- Religious Affiliation: Interdenominational
- Contact: +44 1234 332500
About Bedford Modern School
Bedford Modern School represents over 250 years of educational excellence in the heart of Bedfordshire. This co-educational day school has evolved from its historical foundations to become a modern institution that balances academic rigour with a comprehensive co-curricular programme. The school's ethos centres on developing confident, capable young people who contribute positively to society.
The school's campus on Manton Lane provides an inspiring environment for learning, with state-of-the-art facilities supporting both academic and extracurricular pursuits. BMS particularly excels in pastoral care, ensuring each student receives personalised support throughout their educational journey. The school's strong performance arts and sports programmes complement its academic offerings, creating well-rounded graduates prepared for the challenges of higher education and beyond.
With approximately 1,282 students, Bedford Modern School maintains an intimate community feel whilst offering the resources and opportunities typically associated with larger institutions. The school's interdenominational approach welcomes families from diverse backgrounds, fostering an inclusive environment that celebrates different perspectives and traditions.
The 11+ Assessment Process at Bedford Modern School
Bedford Modern School's 11+ entrance assessment is designed to identify students who will thrive within the school's academic environment and contribute positively to its community. The assessment typically takes place in January for Year 7 entry the following September.
Assessment Components
- Mathematics: Problem-solving, arithmetic, and mathematical reasoning skills appropriate for Year 6 level
- English: Reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, and creative writing abilities
- Verbal Reasoning: Logical thinking, word relationships, and language understanding
- Non-Verbal Reasoning: Spatial awareness, pattern recognition, and visual problem-solving
The school seeks to identify students who demonstrate not only academic potential but also the character traits that align with BMS values. The assessment process is designed to be fair and accessible, allowing candidates to showcase their abilities across multiple areas.
Interview Process
Selected candidates may be invited for an interview, which provides an opportunity for the school to understand each child's interests, motivations, and potential contribution to the BMS community. These conversations are relaxed and designed to help both the family and school determine mutual suitability.
How to Apply
The application process for Bedford Modern School follows a structured timeline that families should plan for well in advance:
Registration
Parents must complete the online registration form through the school's official website. Early registration is recommended as places are limited and demand is consistently high. The registration process includes submission of relevant academic records and references.
Assessment Day
Registered candidates attend the entrance assessment day in January, where they complete the required academic tests in a supportive environment. The school ensures all candidates feel comfortable and can perform to their best ability.
Decision and Offers
Following the assessment and any interviews, the school communicates decisions to families. Successful candidates receive a formal offer of a place, which must be accepted by the specified deadline along with the required deposit.
Important Dates
Families should refer to the school's admissions page for specific deadlines and assessment dates, as these may vary slightly each year. Early engagement with the admissions team is advisable to ensure all requirements are met.
How Taylor Tuition Can Help
Taylor Tuition's expertise in independent school admissions makes us the ideal partner for families pursuing a place at Bedford Modern School. Our comprehensive approach addresses every aspect of the 11+ preparation process, ensuring your child approaches their assessment with confidence and the skills necessary for success.
Personalised Assessment Preparation
Our experienced tutors provide targeted preparation for BMS's specific assessment format, focusing on the mathematical reasoning, English comprehension, and verbal and non-verbal reasoning components. We analyse your child's strengths and areas for development, creating a bespoke programme that maximises their potential whilst building genuine understanding rather than mere test technique.
Strategic Application Guidance
Our deep understanding of Bedford Modern School's ethos and selection criteria enables us to guide families through the application process strategically. We help position your child's application to highlight their unique qualities and demonstrate alignment with the school's values and expectations.
Interview Preparation and Confidence Building
For candidates invited to interview, our coaching helps develop authentic communication skills and confidence. We prepare students to articulate their interests and aspirations clearly whilst remaining natural and engaging in conversation.
Our track record of successful placements at Bedford Modern School reflects our commitment to understanding each school's unique characteristics and preparing families accordingly. We support your family's ambitions with professionalism, discretion, and the expertise that comes from years of experience in the independent education sector.
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