Ellesmere College: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School: Ellesmere College
• Location: Ellesmere, Shropshire
• Type: Co-educational independent day and boarding school
• Age Range: 7-18 years
• Pupils: Approximately 565 students
• Head: Mrs V. Pritt-Roberts (Acting Head)
• Day Fees: £4,265-£7,450 per term
• Boarding Fees: £8,570-£13,545 per term
• Religious Character: Church of England foundation

About Ellesmere College

Established in 1884 by Canon Nathaniel Woodard, Ellesmere College occupies a magnificent 200-acre campus in the heart of Shropshire's picturesque countryside. This co-educational independent school has built an exceptional reputation for nurturing individual potential whilst maintaining the highest academic standards expected by discerning families.

What truly distinguishes Ellesmere College is its designation as one of only 39 High Performance Learning Schools worldwide. This exclusive recognition reflects the school's pioneering approach to developing essential life skills including confidence, collaboration, and perseverance alongside academic excellence. The school's commitment to personalised education ensures every pupil receives tailored support to maximise their unique talents.

The college's diverse international community welcomes students from over 30 nationalities, creating a cosmopolitan environment that prepares pupils for global citizenship. Ellesmere's specialist support for students with learning differences, particularly dyslexia, demonstrates its inclusive approach to excellence.

The school's extensive co-curricular programme encompasses over 50 activities, from traditional sports to innovative pursuits, ensuring pupils develop into well-rounded individuals ready for the challenges of modern life.

The 11+ Assessment Process at Ellesmere College

Ellesmere College employs a comprehensive assessment process designed to identify pupils who will thrive in its academically rigorous yet supportive environment. The school seeks students who demonstrate not only intellectual capability but also the character traits that align with its values of integrity, respect, and determination.

Assessment Components

• Mathematics Assessment: Evaluates mathematical reasoning, problem-solving abilities, and numerical fluency appropriate for Year 7 entry
• English Assessment: Tests reading comprehension, creative writing skills, and grammatical understanding
• Verbal Reasoning: Assesses logical thinking, vocabulary knowledge, and analytical skills
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Evaluates spatial awareness, pattern recognition, and abstract thinking
• Personal Interview: An informal conversation allowing assessors to understand the candidate's interests, motivations, and suitability for the school community

The assessment process typically takes place during the autumn term prior to entry, with specific dates communicated directly to applicant families. Ellesmere's approach focuses on identifying potential rather than simply testing current knowledge, recognising that pupils develop at different rates.

How to Apply

The application process for Ellesmere College is designed to be straightforward whilst ensuring the school can properly assess each candidate's suitability.

Application Steps

• Initial Registration: Complete the online application form available on the school's website, submitting required documentation including previous school reports
• School Visit: Attend a scheduled open morning or arrange a private tour to experience the campus and meet key staff members
• Assessment Day: Participate in the comprehensive assessment process outlined above
• Reference Requests: Provide contact details for current school to enable reference collection
• Offer Decision: Successful candidates receive a formal offer letter with clear next steps
• Acceptance: Confirm place acceptance and complete enrollment documentation

Early registration is strongly recommended, particularly for September entry, as places in Year 7 are highly sought after. The school operates a rolling admissions process, enabling applications throughout the academic year subject to availability.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Securing a place at Ellesmere College requires careful preparation and strategic guidance. Taylor Tuition's expertise in independent school admissions provides families with the comprehensive support needed to navigate this competitive process successfully.

Our Specialised Support Includes

• Comprehensive Assessment Preparation: Targeted tutoring in mathematics, English, and reasoning skills specifically tailored to Ellesmere's requirements
• Practise Paper Programme: Access to authentic past papers and mock assessments replicating the actual testing environment
• Interview Coaching: Professional guidance to help your child articulate their interests and demonstrate their suitability for Ellesmere's community
• Strategic Application Guidance: Expert advice on timing, documentation, and positioning your application for maximum impact
• Ongoing Academic Support: Continued tutoring throughout the application period to ensure maintained academic progress

Our experienced team understands Ellesmere College's unique culture and expectations, enabling us to provide families with insider knowledge that significantly enhances application success rates. We work closely with each family to develop a personalised preparation strategy that builds confidence whilst addressing individual learning needs.

Contact Taylor Tuition today to discuss how we can support your child's journey to Ellesmere College and help them join this exceptional educational community.