Charterhouse School: Comprehensive 13+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Type: Independent coeducational day and boarding school
• Age Range: 13-18 years (Year 9 to Sixth Form)
• Location: Godalming, Surrey
• Founded: 1611
• Student Numbers: Over 900 pupils
• Entry Point: 13+ (Year 9)
• Registration Deadline: End of September in Year 6
• Assessment: ISEB Common Pre-Test, interview, and activity assessment
• Contact: [email protected]

About Charterhouse School

Charterhouse School, established in 1611, represents over four centuries of educational excellence in the heart of Surrey. Set across a magnificent 250-acre campus in Godalming, this prestigious institution has evolved from its historic London origins to become one of Britain's most respected coeducational boarding and day schools.

Under the leadership of Headmaster Dr. Alex Peterken, Charterhouse maintains its commitment to developing well-rounded individuals who excel academically whilst embracing the school's distinctive character-building ethos. The school's approach emphasises intellectual curiosity, personal responsibility, and service to others - values that have shaped generations of leaders across diverse fields.

The school's extensive facilities reflect its commitment to holistic education, featuring state-of-the-art science laboratories, exceptional sports centres, and comprehensive health services. With over 900 pupils, Charterhouse maintains an intimate community atmosphere where each student receives personalised attention and support throughout their academic journey.

The 13+ Assessment Process

Charterhouse School operates a 13+ entry system, welcoming students into Year 9 rather than the traditional 11+ entry point. This approach allows pupils to complete their preparatory school education fully before transitioning to senior school life.

Assessment Components

ISEB Common Pre-Test: Conducted online during the autumn term of Year 6, this adaptive examination evaluates:

• Mathematics: Based on Year 5 curriculum expectations, covering arithmetic fundamentals and problem-solving applications
• English: Comprehensive assessment of reading comprehension skills and grammatical understanding
• Verbal Reasoning: Evaluation of logical thinking capabilities and analytical problem-solving skills

Interview Process: All candidates participate in a personal interview designed to assess character, motivation, and compatibility with Charterhouse's educational philosophy.

Activity Assessment: Pupils engage in practical activities that reveal teamwork abilities, creativity, and approach to new challenges.

Scholarship Opportunities

Charterhouse offers merit-based scholarships across multiple disciplines, including academic excellence, sporting achievement, musical talent, and artistic ability. These awards recognise exceptional potential and provide enhanced opportunities for further development.

How to Apply

The application process for Charterhouse's 13+ entry follows a structured timeline:

Registration: Parents must complete registration by the end of September during their child's Year 6. Early registration is strongly recommended given the school's popularity amongst discerning families.

Assessment Period: The ISEB Common Pre-Test takes place during the autumn term of Year 6, providing ample time for thorough evaluation of each candidate.

Notification: Offers of places are communicated in March of Year 6, allowing families sufficient time to make informed decisions about their child's educational future.

Admissions Enquiries: For detailed information about the application process, specific requirements, or to arrange a school visit, contact the Admissions Office at [email protected].

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition's expertise in independent school admissions proves invaluable for families aspiring to secure places at prestigious institutions like Charterhouse. Our comprehensive support programme addresses every aspect of the 13+ application process.

ISEB Common Pre-Test Preparation: Our specialist tutors provide targeted preparation for each component of the assessment, ensuring students approach the examination with confidence and technical proficiency. We focus particularly on developing strong problem-solving strategies and reading comprehension skills that Charterhouse values highly.

Interview Coaching: Through personalised sessions, we help students articulate their interests, ambitions, and understanding of Charterhouse's distinctive culture. Our approach emphasises authentic self-expression whilst ensuring students can communicate their suitability for the school's demanding academic and social environment.

Application Strategy: We guide families through the complexities of independent school applications, ensuring registration deadlines are met and all documentation reflects the student's strengths effectively. Our deep understanding of Charterhouse's selection criteria enables us to position each application strategically.

Ongoing Academic Support: Beyond admission preparation, Taylor Tuition provides continued academic support to ensure students thrive once they begin their journey at Charterhouse. Our tutors understand the school's rigorous academic standards and can provide seamless transition support.

For families seeking admission to Charterhouse School, Taylor Tuition offers the expertise, resources, and personalised attention necessary to navigate this competitive process successfully whilst ensuring your child is genuinely prepared for the exceptional educational experience that awaits.