City of London School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

School Name: City of London School (CLS)
Type: Independent day school for boys
Age Range: 10 to 18 years
Location: 107 Queen Victoria Street, London EC4V 3AL
Founded: 1834
Capacity: Over 950 students
Affiliations: City of London Family of Schools, HMC member

About City of London School

City of London School occupies a remarkable position in the heart of London's financial district, with its modern facilities overlooking the Thames between St Paul's Cathedral and the Tate Modern. Founded in 1834, this prestigious boys' day school has cultivated nearly two centuries of academic excellence whilst embracing educational innovation.

The school's unique urban setting provides exceptional opportunities, with students benefiting from proximity to world-class cultural institutions, legal chambers, and financial organisations. CLS maintains particularly strong traditions in classics, mathematics, and sciences, with many alumni pursuing distinguished careers in law, medicine, academia, and public service.

The school's house system fosters community spirit amongst its diverse student body, whilst extensive co-curricular programmes include exceptional music ensembles, competitive sports teams, and academic societies. CLS pupils regularly achieve outstanding results, with the vast majority progressing to Russell Group universities including Oxford and Cambridge.

The 11+ Assessment Process

City of London School's entrance examination for Year 7 entry typically takes place in January, comprising assessments specifically designed to identify academic potential and intellectual curiosity.

Assessment Components:

• Mathematics: Problem-solving, numerical reasoning, and mathematical concepts appropriate for bright Year 6 pupils
• English: Reading comprehension, creative writing, and vocabulary assessment
• Verbal Reasoning: Logical analysis of written information and language patterns
• Interview: Individual discussion to assess personality, interests, and suitability for the school environment

The school seeks boys who demonstrate not only academic ability but also intellectual curiosity, resilience, and the capacity to contribute positively to school life. Candidates are assessed on potential rather than purely current attainment, recognising that boys develop at different rates.

How to Apply

The application process for City of London School follows a structured timeline with specific deadlines that must be observed:

Registration: Parents should register their son by the September deadline in Year 5 for the following January's entrance examination. Registration requires completion of the school's application form and payment of the registration fee.

Entrance Examination: Registered candidates sit the entrance assessments in January of Year 6. The school provides sample papers and guidance materials to help families prepare appropriately.

Interviews: Shortlisted candidates attend individual interviews, typically conducted by senior staff members who assess each boy's enthusiasm for learning and potential contribution to school life.

Offers and Acceptance: The school issues offers in February, with parents required to confirm acceptance and pay the deposit by the specified deadline to secure their son's place.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition's extensive experience with City of London School admissions enables us to provide targeted preparation that maximises your son's chances of success whilst developing genuine academic confidence.

Bespoke Preparation Programme: Our tutors understand CLS's specific assessment style and expectations, creating personalised learning plans that address individual strengths and areas for development. We focus on building the analytical thinking and problem-solving skills that the school particularly values.

Interview Coaching: We prepare boys for the CLS interview process through practice sessions that build confidence in articulating ideas, discussing interests, and demonstrating intellectual curiosity. Our coaching helps boys present their authentic selves whilst showcasing their potential.

Comprehensive Support: From initial assessment through to offer acceptance, we guide families through every stage of the admissions process. Our deep understanding of London's independent school landscape ensures strategic advice tailored to your family's specific circumstances and aspirations.

Academic Foundation: Beyond entrance preparation, we help build the strong academic foundations necessary for success at CLS's demanding academic level, ensuring boys arrive ready to flourish in this exceptional educational environment.