Bradfield College: Comprehensive 13+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School: Bradfield College
• Location: Bradfield, Berkshire, RG7 6AU
• Type: Co-educational independent boarding and day school
• Age Range: 13-18 years
• Entry Point: 13+ (Year 9)
• Assessment: ISEB Common Pre-Test, interviews, problem-solving challenge
• Application Deadline: January of Year 6
• Number of Pupils: Approximately 810
• Founded: 1850

About Bradfield College

Bradfield College occupies a commanding position amongst England's most respected independent schools, situated on 220 acres of picturesque Berkshire countryside. Founded in 1850, this co-educational institution has cultivated a distinctive educational philosophy that combines academic rigour with exceptional pastoral care and an unparalleled breadth of opportunities.

The college's unique character is perhaps best exemplified by its famous Greek Theatre, where students perform classical Greek tragedies in the original language - a tradition that has endured for over a century. This commitment to classical education sits alongside thoroughly modern facilities and teaching methods, creating an environment where tradition and innovation flourish together.

With approximately 810 pupils aged 13-18, Bradfield maintains an intimate community feel whilst offering the resources and opportunities of a larger institution. The school became fully co-educational in 2005, and today welcomes both boarding and day pupils who benefit from the college's emphasis on developing confident, articulate, and principled young adults.

The college's academic programme is built around small class sizes and personalised attention, enabling teachers to nurture each pupil's individual strengths whilst addressing areas for development. Bradfield's commitment to excellence extends beyond the classroom through an extensive co-curricular programme encompassing sport, music, drama, and outdoor education.

The 13+ Assessment Process

Bradfield College's admissions process is designed to identify pupils who will thrive in the school's demanding yet supportive environment. The assessment takes place over several stages, each providing insight into different aspects of a candidate's potential.

ISEB Common Pre-Test

All candidates must complete the ISEB Common Pre-Test between November and February of Year 6. This adaptive online assessment evaluates abilities in four key areas:

• English: Reading comprehension, spelling, punctuation, and grammar skills
• Mathematics: Arithmetic and problem-solving based on Year 5 curriculum content
• Verbal Reasoning: Ability to process and manipulate written information logically
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Spatial awareness and pattern recognition using diagrams and figures

The test adapts to each candidate's performance level, becoming more challenging as correct answers are given. Taking approximately 2.5 hours, it can be completed in one session or across multiple sittings.

Assessment Day Activities

Following successful Pre-Test performance, candidates are invited to Bradfield for a comprehensive assessment day during the Autumn and Lent terms of Year 6. This includes:

• Admissions Interview (20-30 minutes): Discussion of interests, aspirations, and motivation for joining Bradfield
• House Interview (20-30 minutes): Meeting with potential Housemistress or Housemaster to assess pastoral fit
• Problem-Solving Challenge (60 minutes): Collaborative exercise designed to evaluate critical thinking and teamwork abilities

How to Apply

The application process begins early and requires careful planning to meet all requirements and deadlines.

Initial Steps

1. Campus Visit: Attend a Saturday Morning Tour to experience the school environment and meet staff
2. Registration: Submit the Provisional Entry Form with non-refundable registration fee by January of Year 6
3. School Reference: Bradfield requests a confidential academic and character reference from the candidate's current school

Assessment Timeline

• Year 6 (November-February): Complete ISEB Common Pre-Test
• Year 6 (Autumn/Lent terms): Attend assessment day for interviews and problem-solving challenge
• Year 6 (March): Conditional offers made to most successful candidates
• Year 8: Final entrance examinations (Bradfield Entrance Tests, Common Academic Scholarship, or Common Entrance)

Late Applications

Whilst the majority of places are allocated in March of Year 6, Bradfield occasionally accepts late applications. These candidates may receive offers during Year 7 or 8, subject to availability and exceptional circumstances.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Securing admission to Bradfield College requires strategic preparation that goes beyond academic tutoring. Taylor Tuition's experienced consultants understand the nuanced requirements of this prestigious institution and provide comprehensive support throughout the application journey.

ISEB Pre-Test Preparation

Our specialists deliver targeted preparation for each component of the ISEB assessment, ensuring candidates approach the adaptive test with confidence. We focus on developing the reasoning skills and mathematical fluency that Bradfield values, whilst strengthening English comprehension and written expression abilities.

Interview Coaching

Bradfield's interview process evaluates character, motivation, and intellectual curiosity. Our consultants conduct mock interviews that prepare candidates to articulate their interests and demonstrate the maturity and enthusiasm that Bradfield seeks. We also provide specific guidance for the House interview, helping families understand the importance of pastoral fit.

Problem-Solving Preparation

The collaborative problem-solving challenge requires candidates to demonstrate teamwork and analytical thinking under pressure. Taylor Tuition's preparation sessions develop these crucial skills through carefully designed exercises that mirror Bradfield's assessment format.

Strategic Application Guidance

Our consultants provide expert advice on timing, documentation, and positioning your child's application to highlight their suitability for Bradfield's distinctive educational environment. We ensure families understand each stage of the process and are fully prepared for the demands of this competitive admissions pathway.

With Taylor Tuition's support, your child will approach Bradfield College's admissions process with the preparation, confidence, and strategic advantage necessary for success at this exceptional institution.