Francis Holland School (Sloane Square): Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Type: Independent day school for girls aged 11-18
• Location: Sloane Square, Central London
• Founded: 1870s by Canon Francis James Holland
• Pupil Numbers: 591 students
• Day Fees: £8,810 per term
• Religious Affiliation: Anglican
• Recent Recognition: Sunday Times Independent Secondary School of the Year 2023
• Application Contact: registrar@fhs-sw1.org.uk or 020 7824 5005

About Francis Holland School (Sloane Square)

Francis Holland School, Sloane Square occupies a prestigious position in the heart of London's most exclusive district. Established in the 1870s, this distinguished girls' school has cultivated a reputation for academic excellence whilst nurturing creativity, innovation and enterprise. The school's mission centres on developing "leaders, thinkers, innovators, designers, entrepreneurs, and game-changers of tomorrow".

Located in the cultural heart of London, the school benefits from unparalleled access to museums, galleries, theatres and professional networks that enrich the educational experience. The school's Anglican foundation provides a strong moral framework whilst embracing diversity and encouraging independent thinking.

With 591 pupils, Francis Holland maintains an intimate learning environment where each girl receives personalised attention. The curriculum emphasises curiosity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for success in an increasingly complex world. The school's recent recognition as Sunday Times Independent Secondary School of the Year 2023 reflects its commitment to educational innovation and outstanding outcomes.

Fees and key dates for 2026/27

Francis Holland School (Sloane Square) publishes day fees of £11,058 per term for 2026/27, and the figures above come from the school's own fees page as checked in September 2026. Registration for the next 11+ round closes on Friday 6th November 2026. The assessment takes place on Tuesday 1st December 2026 (interviews for all candidates: Friday 8th January 2027). A 100-minute assessment (usually sat at the applicant's current school) focused on problem-solving, critical thinking and creativity rather than pure academic knowledge, followed by an interview and a reference from the current head. Fees and dates change each year, so the school's website remains the reference for the current round.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Francis Holland School operates a selective admissions process designed to identify academically able girls who will thrive in the school's intellectually demanding environment. The 11+ assessment comprises multiple components carefully designed to evaluate both academic potential and personal qualities.

Assessment Components:

• English examination testing comprehension, creative writing and analytical skills
• Mathematics paper assessing numerical reasoning and problem-solving abilities
• Verbal and non-verbal reasoning assessments
• Personal interview to evaluate character, motivation and potential contribution to school life
• Current school reference providing insight into academic performance and conduct

Scholarship Opportunities:

The school offers various scholarships at 11+ entry, each worth 5% of annual fees:

• Academic scholarships recognising exceptional intellectual ability
• Music scholarships for talented instrumentalists and vocalists
• Drama scholarships celebrating theatrical excellence
• Art scholarships for creative talent
• Sport scholarships for athletic achievement
• Classical Ballet scholarships (up to £2,000) for dance excellence

Scholarship candidates undergo additional specialist assessments in their chosen field, demonstrating both talent and commitment to their discipline.

How to Apply

The application process requires careful planning and attention to detail. Prospective families should begin the process well in advance of the desired entry date.

Application Steps:

• Contact the Registrar at registrar@fhs-sw1.org.uk or telephone 020 7824 5005 to request application materials and discuss specific requirements
• Attend an Open Day to experience the school's atmosphere and meet staff and current pupils
• Complete and submit the comprehensive application form with all required documentation
• Arrange for current school reference to be submitted directly to Francis Holland
• Attend assessment day when invited, including written examinations and personal interview
• Await admissions decision and respond promptly if offered a place

The school attracts applications from pupils attending both preparatory schools and maintained primary schools across London and the surrounding areas. Early registration is advisable given the school's popularity and limited places available.

Preparing for the Francis Holland School (Sloane Square) 11+ with Taylor Tuition

The Francis Holland School (Sloane Square) 11+ rewards steady preparation over a year or so, with the last term given to timed practice and interview confidence. Having prepared pupils for entry to leading independent and grammar schools, with placements including Westminster, St Paul's, Wycombe Abbey and Eton, our tutors match the programme to the school's assessment format and to where the child is starting from.

Because the pool includes former heads of department, exam-board examiners and teachers from independent and boarding schools, and more than half of our tutors hold Qualified Teacher Status, families get a tutor who understands what the assessors are looking for. Every tutor who works with children holds an enhanced DBS check.

Families work with us online from anywhere in the UK or abroad, and in person in central London. Fees start from £50 per 50-minute session and depend on tutor level and subject, with no registration fee and a free initial consultation to talk through your child's current level and the timeline to the 11+. Families receive progress reports after sessions and have a dedicated point of contact, and we reply to enquiries within one working day with tutor recommendations.

Read more about our 11+ entrance exam tutors, or send an enquiry and we will come back with tutor recommendations.