Bromley High School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Type: Independent girls' day school
• Age Range: 4-18 years
• Location: Bickley, Greater London
• Founded: 1883
• Trust: Girls' Day School Trust (GDST)
• Student Numbers: Approximately 870 girls
• Campus: 25-acre site with modern facilities
• Entry Points: Year 7 (11+) primary entry
• Assessment: Mathematics, English, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning
• Scholarships: Academic, music, and means-tested bursaries available

About Bromley High School

Bromley High School represents one of the GDST's most established institutions, combining 140 years of educational heritage with contemporary teaching methods. Located on a stunning 25-acre campus in leafy Bickley, the school provides an exceptional environment where academic rigour meets pastoral care excellence.

The school's philosophy centres on developing confident, intellectually curious young women who are prepared to excel in an increasingly competitive global landscape. With approximately 870 students from Reception through to Sixth Form, Bromley High maintains an intimate community feel whilst offering the resources and opportunities of a larger institution.

The school's academic programme emphasises critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. Students benefit from small class sizes, typically 20-22 in the senior school, ensuring personalised attention from highly qualified teaching staff. The curriculum extends well beyond traditional subjects, incorporating innovative programmes in digital literacy, entrepreneurship, and global citizenship.

Extracurricular provision includes competitive sports teams, an acclaimed music department with multiple orchestras and choirs, drama productions, and over 50 clubs and societies. The school's commitment to service learning sees students engage with local community projects and international partnerships.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Bromley High School's 11+ assessment process is designed to identify academically able students who will thrive in the school's challenging yet supportive environment. The assessment takes place on a designated Saturday morning in late January, providing a comprehensive evaluation of candidates' academic potential.

Assessment Components

Mathematics Paper (45 minutes): Focuses on problem-solving abilities, numerical reasoning, and mathematical concepts appropriate for Year 6 level. Questions assess understanding of arithmetic, fractions, decimals, percentages, basic geometry, and data interpretation. Students must demonstrate logical thinking and accuracy under time pressure.

English Paper (45 minutes): Evaluates reading comprehension, vocabulary knowledge, and written expression. Candidates analyse a prose passage, answer questions testing inference and understanding, and complete language exercises covering grammar, punctuation, and spelling. The assessment identifies students who can engage with sophisticated texts and express ideas clearly.

Verbal Reasoning (30 minutes): Tests logical thinking, vocabulary range, and ability to identify patterns in words and concepts. Questions include analogies, codes, classifications, and logical sequences, assessing cognitive flexibility and linguistic intelligence.

Non-Verbal Reasoning (30 minutes): Evaluates spatial awareness, pattern recognition, and logical thinking through visual puzzles. Students analyse sequences, rotations, reflections, and transformations, demonstrating analytical skills independent of language ability.

Assessment Day Experience

The assessment day begins with registration at 8:30am, followed by a welcome presentation for both students and parents. Candidates are assigned to small groups with current Bromley High students acting as guides, helping to ease nervousness and create a supportive atmosphere.

Between assessment papers, students enjoy refreshments and brief relaxation periods. The school's pastoral team ensures each candidate feels comfortable and supported throughout the morning. Parents may tour the school facilities whilst assessments are taking place.

How to Apply

Applications for Year 7 entry must be submitted via the school's online portal by the registration deadline, typically in early November. The comprehensive application process ensures the school can identify students who will flourish academically and contribute positively to the school community.

Application Requirements

• Completed online application form with student and family details
• Current school report from headteacher or class teacher
• Registration fee payment
• Supporting statement outlining why Bromley High is the right choice
• Details of any special educational needs or access arrangements

Key Dates and Timeline

Early September: Applications open online
Early November: Registration deadline
December: Assessment day confirmation sent
Late January: Assessment day
Mid-February: Results notification
March: Offer acceptance deadline

Financial Support

Bromley High School offers various scholarship and bursary opportunities to ensure talented students can access the school regardless of financial circumstances. Academic scholarships recognise exceptional ability, whilst music scholarships support gifted musicians. Means-tested bursaries, including GDST Trust bursaries, can provide up to 100% fee remission for families demonstrating financial need.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition's specialist 11+ preparation programme has helped numerous students secure places at Bromley High School. Our experienced tutors understand the school's specific assessment requirements and tailor preparation to maximise each student's potential.

Targeted Preparation Strategy

Our Bromley High preparation begins with diagnostic assessment to identify individual strengths and areas for development. We create personalised study programmes addressing the four assessment components: Mathematics, English, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning.

Mathematics tuition focuses on problem-solving techniques, time management, and accuracy under pressure. Students practise multi-step problems, develop mental arithmetic fluency, and learn to approach unfamiliar questions with confidence.

English preparation emphasises advanced reading comprehension, vocabulary expansion, and precise written expression. Students analyse sophisticated texts, develop inference skills, and practise clear, concise writing techniques valued by Bromley High's English department.

Reasoning Skills Development

Our reasoning specialists help students master the logical thinking patterns tested in both verbal and non-verbal sections. Through systematic practice and strategy development, students learn to recognise question types, eliminate incorrect answers, and work efficiently within time constraints.

Mock Assessments and Confidence Building

Regular mock assessments in exam-style conditions help students become familiar with the assessment format and timing. Our detailed feedback identifies specific areas for improvement whilst building confidence and resilience.

We provide guidance on assessment day preparation, including practical advice on managing nerves, time allocation, and question selection strategies. Parents receive regular progress updates and advice on supporting their child's preparation at home.

Holistic Application Support

Beyond academic preparation, Taylor Tuition guides families through the entire application process. We assist with application completion, advise on supporting statements, and provide insights into Bromley High's values and expectations.

Our extensive experience with GDST schools enables us to position each applicant effectively, highlighting qualities that align with Bromley High's educational philosophy and community ethos.