Clifton High School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Type: Co-educational independent day school
• Age Range: 3-18 years (Pre-school to Sixth Form)
• Location: Clifton, Bristol, England
• Founded: 1877 (became fully co-educational in 2010)
• Pupils: Approximately 775 students
• Educational Model: Diamond Model - mixed teaching in early years, separate core subjects Years 7-9, then co-educational for public examinations
• Notable Features: Small class sizes, exceptional pastoral care, recently renovated facilities including new Sixth Form Centre

About Clifton High School

Clifton High School has been nurturing young minds in the heart of Bristol for over 145 years. Originally established as a girls' school in 1877, this progressive institution embraced full co-education in 2010, pioneering the innovative Diamond Model of learning that maximises the educational benefits for both boys and girls.

The school's unique approach recognises that children learn differently at various stages of development. In the early years and again from Year 10 onwards, pupils learn together in mixed classes, fostering natural social development and collaboration. However, during the crucial Years 7-9, core subjects are taught in single-gender groups, allowing teaching methods to be tailored to how boys and girls learn most effectively during these formative years.

Set within the prestigious Clifton area of Bristol, the school combines academic rigour with a nurturing environment that encourages curiosity, empathy, and personal direction. The recent multimillion-pound investment in facilities, including a state-of-the-art Sixth Form Centre and modern dining hall, demonstrates the school's commitment to providing exceptional educational resources.

With approximately 775 pupils across all year groups, Clifton High maintains deliberately small class sizes to ensure personalised attention for every child. The school's pastoral care programme is particularly noteworthy, providing comprehensive support that enables students to flourish both academically and personally.

The 11+ Assessment Process at Clifton High School

Clifton High School employs a comprehensive assessment process for Year 7 entry that evaluates both academic potential and personal qualities essential for success within their distinctive educational environment.

Academic Assessment Components

The entrance examination typically includes:

• Mathematics: Problem-solving, numerical reasoning, and mathematical concepts appropriate for Year 6 level
• English: Reading comprehension, creative writing, grammar, and vocabulary assessment
• Verbal Reasoning: Logic, word relationships, and analytical thinking skills
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Pattern recognition, spatial awareness, and abstract reasoning abilities

Interview Process

Following the written assessments, candidates participate in an interview designed to evaluate their motivation, interests, and alignment with the school's values of curiosity, empathy, love, and direction. The interview provides an opportunity for the admissions team to understand each child's potential contribution to the school community and ensures the Diamond Model approach would benefit their learning style.

Assessment Timing and Preparation

The assessment process typically takes place in the January preceding September entry. Parents are encouraged to familiarise their children with the format through practice papers, whilst ensuring preparation remains balanced and stress-free. The school values students who demonstrate genuine enthusiasm for learning rather than intensive coaching results.

How to Apply

The application process for Clifton High School requires careful planning and attention to detail:

Initial Steps

• School Visits: Attend one of the regular Open Days to experience the school's atmosphere and meet teaching staff
• Registration: Complete the online application form via the school's website, ensuring all sections are thoroughly completed
• Registration Fee: Submit the required registration fee to secure your child's place in the assessment process

Supporting Documentation

Prepare and submit the following materials:

• Current school reports covering the previous two academic years
• Teacher references from your child's current school
• Completed candidate information form highlighting interests and achievements
• Copy of birth certificate or passport for age verification

Assessment Day Arrangements

Once registered, you will receive detailed information about:

• Assessment dates and timings
• What to bring on the day
• School tour opportunities for parents during the assessment
• Interview scheduling and format expectations

Decision Timeline

Offers are typically communicated within two weeks of the assessment day. Successful candidates receive a formal offer letter outlining next steps, including deposit requirements and new pupil induction arrangements.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition's expertise in Clifton High School admissions ensures your child approaches their assessment with confidence and clarity. Our comprehensive preparation programme is specifically designed to align with the school's unique Diamond Model philosophy and assessment criteria.

Tailored Academic Preparation

Our experienced tutors provide focused preparation across all assessment areas, emphasising problem-solving approaches and reasoning skills that Clifton High School values. We ensure your child develops the analytical thinking and academic confidence needed to excel in their entrance examinations, whilst maintaining the natural curiosity the school seeks in its pupils.

Interview Coaching and Confidence Building

Understanding Clifton High School's emphasis on personal qualities, we provide comprehensive interview preparation that helps your child articulate their interests, values, and aspirations effectively. Our coaching develops the communication skills and self-assurance needed to demonstrate alignment with the school's ethos of curiosity, empathy, and direction.

Strategic Application Guidance

With detailed knowledge of Clifton High School's admissions process and expectations, we guide families through every aspect of the application journey. From optimising application forms to understanding the Diamond Model's benefits for your child's learning style, we ensure your application presents your child in the strongest possible light.

Ongoing Support and Alternative Planning

Our comprehensive service includes backup school recommendations and application support, ensuring you have multiple excellent options. We maintain relationships with admissions teams across Bristol's independent schools, providing insider insights that can make the crucial difference in competitive admissions processes.