Berkhamsted School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Name: Berkhamsted School
• Type: Co-educational with diamond structure (single-sex 11-16)
• Founded: 1541
• Head: Mr Richard Backhouse
• Location: Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire
• Age Range: 3-18 years
• Pupils: Approximately 1,994
• Day Fees: £3,855 - £8,840 per term
• Boarding Fees: £12,200 - £14,580 per term
• Boarding: Weekly, flexible and full boarding available

About Berkhamsted School

Berkhamsted School operates a distinctive "diamond" educational model that sets it apart from traditional co-educational institutions. Founded in 1541, this historic school educates boys and girls together during the early years, then provides single-sex education from Year 7 to Year 11, before reuniting students in a co-educational Sixth Form environment.

Located in the market town of Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, the school benefits from excellent transport links to London whilst maintaining a quintessentially English setting. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities including a modern sports centre with swimming pool, a 500-seat theatre, and extensive playing fields that support the school's comprehensive co-curricular programme.

The school's house system forms the backbone of pastoral care, creating smaller communities within the larger school environment. This structure ensures each pupil receives personalised attention and support throughout their educational journey. Berkhamsted's commitment to developing well-rounded individuals extends beyond academics to encompass leadership, creativity, and social responsibility.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Berkhamsted School's Year 7 entry assessment is carefully designed to identify pupils who will thrive in the school's academically rigorous yet supportive environment. The diamond structure means that assessment considers not only academic ability but also the candidate's potential to benefit from single-sex education during the crucial secondary years.

The assessment typically comprises:

• English: Reading comprehension exercises and creative writing tasks that evaluate literacy skills and analytical thinking
• Mathematics: Problem-solving questions designed to assess numerical reasoning and mathematical understanding beyond basic curriculum requirements
• Reasoning Tests: Both verbal and non-verbal reasoning components that evaluate logical thinking abilities and cognitive flexibility

Candidates are assessed on their potential rather than their current attainment level, recognising that pupils come from diverse educational backgrounds. The school seeks students who demonstrate intellectual curiosity, resilience, and the ability to contribute positively to the school community.

How to Apply

The application process for Berkhamsted School begins well in advance of the intended entry date, and families are encouraged to engage early with the admissions team.

Application Timeline:

• Initial registration should be completed by the preceding autumn term
• Assessment days typically take place in January for September entry
• Interviews follow shortly after assessment completion
• Offers are usually made by late February or early March

Required Steps:

• Complete the online registration form through the school's website
• Submit current school reports and references
• Attend the assessment day as scheduled
• Participate in the interview process if selected
• Accept the place offer within the specified timeframe

The school welcomes visits from prospective families and regularly hosts open days and individual tours. These opportunities allow families to experience the unique diamond structure environment and meet current pupils and staff.

Preparing for the Berkhamsted School 11+ with Taylor Tuition

The Berkhamsted 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 in the East of England and further afield work with us online, 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.