The Cathedral School, Llandaff: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Name: The Cathedral School, Llandaff
• Location: Cardiff Road, Llandaff, Cardiff, CF5 2YH
• Type: Coeducational independent day school
• Age Range: 3-18 years (Nursery through Sixth Form)
• Founded: Historic choral foundation for Llandaff Cathedral
• Affiliations: Woodard Schools, ISC, IAPS, Choir Schools Association
• Contact: +44 29 2056 3179

About The Cathedral School, Llandaff

The Cathedral School, Llandaff holds the unique distinction of being Wales' only surviving Anglican choir school, maintaining an extraordinary musical heritage that dates back centuries. Situated in the historic village of Llandaff on the outskirts of Cardiff, this coeducational independent school provides exceptional education from nursery through to Sixth Form within a nurturing Christian environment.

The school's academic credentials are impressive, with recent A Level results demonstrating that 75% of grades achieved A*-A and 96% at A*-B. This outstanding performance reflects the school's commitment to academic excellence whilst maintaining its foundational values of community, respect, and individual development. As part of the prestigious Woodard Schools foundation, the school benefits from a network of educational expertise and shared resources.

The school's unique position as a cathedral choir school means students have extraordinary opportunities to participate in professional-level musical performances, including services at Llandaff Cathedral. This musical excellence extends throughout the school, with numerous choirs, orchestras, and ensemble opportunities available to students of all abilities.

Set within beautiful grounds adjacent to Llandaff Cathedral, the school combines historic charm with modern educational facilities, including purpose-built science laboratories, IT suites, a well-equipped library, and excellent sports facilities. The small class sizes ensure personalised attention, allowing each child's individual talents to flourish within a supportive academic community.

The 11+ Assessment Process

The Cathedral School's 11+ entrance assessment is carefully designed to identify students who will thrive in the school's academically rigorous yet supportive environment. The assessment process evaluates not only academic ability but also a child's potential to contribute positively to the school's close-knit community.

The entrance examination typically includes:

• English: Comprehensive assessment of reading comprehension, creative writing, and language skills
• Mathematics: Problem-solving abilities, numerical reasoning, and mathematical concepts appropriate to Year 6 level
• Verbal Reasoning: Evaluation of logical thinking and verbal problem-solving capabilities
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Assessment of spatial awareness and pattern recognition skills

The school may also conduct informal interviews with prospective students to assess their enthusiasm for learning and compatibility with the school's ethos. Given the school's musical heritage, students with musical interests or abilities are particularly welcomed, though musical talent is not a requirement for admission.

Assessment dates are typically scheduled in the January preceding September entry, allowing families adequate time to prepare whilst maintaining manageable stress levels for young candidates.

How to Apply

Beginning the application process early is recommended, as The Cathedral School maintains selective entry standards and places are highly sought after. The school welcomes families to visit throughout the year to experience the unique atmosphere and educational approach firsthand.

Application steps include:

• Initial Contact: Reach out to the Registrar, Ms Deborah Whitehouse, to discuss your child's educational needs and the school's offerings
• School Visit: Attend an Open Day or arrange an individual tour to explore the facilities and meet key staff members
• Application Submission: Complete the registration form and submit required documentation, including previous school reports
• Assessment Booking: Schedule your child's entrance examination for the appropriate assessment window
• Interview Process: Participate in any required interviews with senior staff members

Contact Information:

Registrar: Ms Deborah Whitehouse

Telephone: +44 29 2083 8504

Email: registrar@cathedral-school.co.uk

Regular Open Days provide excellent opportunities to meet current families, observe lessons in progress, and speak directly with teachers about the school's approach to education and pastoral care.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition's expertise in Wales' independent school sector ensures your child receives targeted preparation for The Cathedral School's specific entrance requirements. Our consultants understand the school's academic standards, assessment format, and the qualities they seek in prospective students.

Our comprehensive support includes:

• Personalised Assessment Preparation: Tailored tutoring programmes covering English, Mathematics, and reasoning skills aligned with the school's entrance examination format
• Mock Examinations: Practise assessments under timed conditions to build confidence and identify areas requiring additional support
• Interview Coaching: Guidance on presenting your child's interests and achievements effectively during the informal interview process
• Application Strategy: Expert advice on timing, documentation, and positioning your application to highlight your child's suitability for the school's unique environment
• Musical Portfolio Development: For musically inclined students, assistance in showcasing talents that align with the school's choral tradition

Our deep understanding of The Cathedral School's educational philosophy and community values enables us to prepare families not just for successful admission, but for thriving within this distinctive Welsh educational institution. We ensure your child approaches their assessment with confidence, having been thoroughly prepared for both the academic challenges and the welcoming, music-rich environment they will encounter.