Bedford School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

School: Bedford School
Type: Independent Boys' Day and Boarding School
Ages: 7-18 years (Prep and Senior School)
Location: De Parys Avenue, Bedford, Bedfordshire
Founded: 1552
Head: Mr James Hodgson
Pupils: Approximately 1,100 students
Boarding: 50% of pupils board
Notable: Independent Boys' School of the Year 2021

About Bedford School

Bedford School stands amongst England's most historic educational institutions, tracing its origins to 1552 when it received its Royal Charter from King Edward VI. This distinguished boys' school occupies a magnificent 50-acre campus in the heart of Bedford, combining centuries of educational tradition with thoroughly modern facilities and teaching methods.

The school operates across two distinct yet integrated divisions: the Preparatory School for boys aged 7-13 and the Senior School for ages 13-18. This structure enables Bedford to provide a seamless educational journey, allowing boys to develop within a familiar environment whilst benefiting from age-appropriate teaching and pastoral care.

Bedford School's Christian foundation remains central to its ethos, fostering values of integrity, respect, and service whilst warmly welcoming boys from all faith backgrounds. The school's commitment to developing well-rounded young men extends far beyond academic achievement, encompassing leadership development, creative expression, and sporting excellence.

The school's impressive facilities include state-of-the-art science laboratories, a purpose-built music school, extensive sports facilities including the renowned Great Pool, and a thriving boat club that regularly competes at Henley Royal Regatta. This investment in infrastructure reflects Bedford's commitment to providing exceptional opportunities across all areas of school life.

The 11+ Assessment Process at Bedford School

Bedford School's 11+ entrance assessment is designed to identify boys who will thrive in the school's academically rigorous yet supportive environment. The assessment takes place in January for September entry and evaluates candidates across multiple disciplines to ensure a comprehensive understanding of each boy's potential.

Assessment Components:

• Mathematics: Problem-solving, numerical reasoning, and mathematical concepts appropriate to Year 6 level
• English: Reading comprehension, creative writing, grammar, and vocabulary skills
• Verbal Reasoning: Logic, pattern recognition, and analytical thinking using word-based problems
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Spatial awareness, pattern completion, and visual problem-solving

The school places particular emphasis on identifying potential rather than purely current attainment, recognising that boys develop at different rates. Each candidate also participates in an individual interview with senior staff, allowing the school to understand the boy's interests, motivations, and suitability for Bedford's unique environment.

Bedford School seeks boys who demonstrate intellectual curiosity, resilience, and the potential to contribute positively to the school community. The assessment process is designed to be thorough yet fair, ensuring that successful candidates are well-prepared for the academic challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

How to Apply

The application process for Bedford School 11+ entry follows a structured timeline designed to give families adequate time to prepare whilst ensuring efficient processing of applications.

Application Timeline:

• Registration: Applications open in September for the following year's entry
• School Visits: Attend Open Days or arrange individual tours between September and November
• Application Deadline: Early November for 11+ entry
• Assessment Day: January of the entry year
• Interviews: Conducted alongside the written assessments
• Offers: Communicated by late January/early February
• Acceptance: Places must be confirmed by mid-February

Required Documentation:

• Completed application form with registration fee
• Recent school reports covering the previous two years
• Head teacher's reference from current school
• Birth certificate and passport photograph

Bedford School strongly encourages prospective families to visit the school before applying. The school's regular Open Days provide excellent opportunities to tour the facilities, meet staff and current pupils, and gain insight into daily life at Bedford. Private tours can also be arranged for families who cannot attend scheduled events.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition's expertise in Bedford School admissions stems from our deep understanding of the school's unique character and assessment requirements. Our consultants have successfully guided numerous families through the application process, helping boys secure places at this prestigious institution.

Our Bedford School Preparation Programme:

• Diagnostic Assessment: Comprehensive evaluation of your son's current abilities and identification of areas for development
• Targeted Tuition: Bespoke lessons focusing on Bedford's specific 11+ requirements, including practice with past papers and assessment-style questions
• Interview Preparation: Mock interviews and coaching to help your son present confidently and articulate his interests effectively
• Strategic Planning: Timeline management and application guidance to ensure all deadlines are met
• Ongoing Support: Regular progress reviews and adjustments to preparation strategies

Our approach recognises that Bedford School values boys who can think independently, express themselves clearly, and demonstrate genuine enthusiasm for learning. We work closely with each family to develop these qualities whilst ensuring strong performance across all assessment areas.

Taylor Tuition's track record with Bedford School admissions reflects our commitment to understanding each school's distinctive requirements. We provide families with the confidence and preparation necessary to navigate this competitive process successfully, ensuring your son can demonstrate his full potential on assessment day.