Bolton School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Type: Independent day school with co-educational nursery/infant and single-sex junior/senior divisions
• Age Range: Nursery (0-4) to Sixth Form (16-18)
• Gender: Co-educational nursery/infant; Boys' Division and Girls' Division from age 7
• Location: Chorley New Road, Bolton, Greater Manchester BL1 4PA
• Fees: £3,632 - £4,772 per term
• Pupils: Over 2,500 across all divisions
• Campus: 32-acre site in Bolton
• Financial Support: One in five pupils receive bursary assistance

About Bolton School

Bolton School represents one of the UK's largest independent schools, with origins tracing back to Bolton Grammar School in the early 16th century. Located on an impressive 32-acre campus in Greater Manchester, the school has evolved into a distinctive educational institution serving over 2,500 pupils across its various divisions.

The school's unique structure comprises a co-educational nursery and infant school, followed by separate Boys' and Girls' Divisions from age 7 onwards. This approach allows the school to maximise the benefits of both co-educational and single-sex education at different developmental stages. The Boys' Division and Girls' Division each maintain their own distinct character whilst sharing excellent facilities and resources across the campus.

Bolton School's commitment to academic excellence is matched by its emphasis on character development and personal growth. The school's extensive facilities support a broad curriculum that extends well beyond traditional academic subjects, encompassing creative arts, technology, and an impressive range of co-curricular activities. The school's proximity to Manchester provides additional cultural and educational opportunities whilst maintaining its own distinctive community feel.

With its strong track record of university destinations and emphasis on developing well-rounded individuals, Bolton School attracts families seeking a comprehensive independent education that prepares pupils for future leadership roles across various fields.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Bolton School's entrance examination for Year 7 entry follows a comprehensive assessment approach designed to identify pupils who will thrive in the school's academic environment. The assessment typically takes place in January and evaluates candidates across multiple disciplines.

Assessment Components:

• Mathematics: Problem-solving abilities, numerical reasoning, and mathematical concepts appropriate to Year 6 level
• English: Reading comprehension, writing skills, vocabulary, and language reasoning
• Verbal Reasoning: Logical thinking using words and language, understanding relationships between concepts
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Pattern recognition, spatial awareness, and logical reasoning using visual information

The school's assessment process is designed to identify potential rather than simply test current attainment, recognising that pupils develop at different rates. Candidates are evaluated holistically, with the school considering each pupil's individual circumstances and potential for growth within Bolton School's environment.

Following the entrance examination, shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview, which provides an opportunity for the school to understand each candidate's interests, motivations, and fit with the school's values and ethos.

How to Apply

The application process for Bolton School Year 7 entry follows a structured timeline that families should plan for well in advance:

Application Steps:

• Registration: Complete the online registration form by the specified deadline, typically in the autumn term preceding entry
• Entrance Examination: Attend the scheduled entrance examination in January
• Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview with senior staff
• Offers: Notification of offers made shortly after the examination period

Families should register their interest early, as this allows sufficient time to prepare thoroughly for the entrance requirements. The school provides guidance on examination format and expectations to ensure all candidates can perform to their best ability.

For families considering bursary support, additional financial documentation will be required as part of the application process. The school's bursary programme supports approximately one in five pupils, reflecting its commitment to ensuring talented children can access the education regardless of family financial circumstances.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition's expertise in Bolton School admissions stems from our deep understanding of the school's distinctive assessment approach and the specific qualities they seek in prospective pupils. Our personalised preparation programmes are designed to maximise each child's potential for success in the entrance examination.

Our Bolton School Preparation Includes:

• Comprehensive Assessment: Initial evaluation to identify strengths and areas for development across all examination components
• Targeted Mathematics Support: Problem-solving techniques and numerical reasoning skills specific to Bolton School's examination style
• English Excellence: Reading comprehension strategies, writing development, and vocabulary enhancement
• Reasoning Skills Development: Systematic approach to both verbal and non-verbal reasoning with extensive practice
• Mock Examinations: Realistic practice under examination conditions with detailed performance analysis
• Interview Preparation: Confidence-building techniques and practice sessions for the interview process

Our tutors understand the importance of developing genuine academic curiosity alongside examination technique. We work closely with families to ensure preparation enhances rather than overwhelms a child's natural enthusiasm for learning.

Given Bolton School's emphasis on character as well as academic achievement, our approach extends beyond pure examination preparation to help pupils develop the confidence, communication skills, and intellectual curiosity that will serve them throughout their time at the school and beyond.