Key Information Summary
School Type: Co-educational grammar school
Age Range: 11-18 (day), 11-18 (boarding for boys only)
Location: Newport, Shropshire
Admissions: West Midlands Grammar Schools 11+ entrance test
Test Date: Mid-September annually
Application Deadline: Late October
Boarding: State boarding available for boys
Ofsted Rating: Outstanding for teaching
About Haberdashers' Adams School
Established nearly 400 years ago, Haberdashers' Adams School combines centuries of educational tradition with contemporary innovation in Newport, Shropshire. This co-educational grammar school serves pupils aged 11-18, offering day places for both boys and girls, whilst providing unique state boarding opportunities exclusively for boys.
The school's educational philosophy centres on developing pupils who are intellectually curious, broadly engaged, and caring individuals. Students are encouraged to make connections across diverse subject areas, think critically about global events, and participate in meaningful academic discourse. The school's commitment to traditional values of courtesy, respect, and strong work ethic forms the foundation for a modern, technology-enhanced learning environment.
Haberdashers' Adams operates within a supportive House system that fosters community spirit and belonging. This structure provides pupils with pastoral care whilst encouraging healthy competition and collaboration. The school's broad curriculum is complemented by extensive extracurricular opportunities, allowing students to explore diverse interests and develop well-rounded personalities.
Academic excellence remains a hallmark of the school, with consistently strong GCSE and A-level results. Many graduates progress to prestigious universities, reflecting the school's commitment to preparing students for higher education and future careers. The school's location in Newport provides a conducive learning environment whilst maintaining excellent transport links across Shropshire and beyond.
The 11+ Assessment Process at Haberdashers' Adams
Haberdashers' Adams participates in the West Midlands Grammar Schools partnership, streamlining the admissions process for families applying to multiple grammar schools within this consortium. This collaborative approach means pupils take a single entrance examination that serves applications to all participating schools.
Test Format and Content
The West Midlands Grammar Schools Entrance Test comprises two one-hour papers administered in mid-September. The assessment evaluates:
- English Comprehension: Reading analysis, vocabulary, and language understanding
- Mathematics: Numerical reasoning, problem-solving, and mathematical concepts
- Verbal Reasoning: Logic, patterns, and analytical thinking using words
- Non-Verbal Reasoning: Spatial awareness, pattern recognition, and visual problem-solving
All questions follow a multiple-choice format, designed to assess academic potential and readiness for grammar school education. The test aims to identify pupils who will thrive in Haberdashers' Adams' intellectually demanding environment.
Assessment Timeline
Registration for the entrance test typically opens in early May, with the deadline falling in late June. Parents must complete online registration during this window to secure their child's test place. The examination takes place in mid-September, with results released in mid-October. Following receipt of test results, parents must list Haberdashers' Adams on their local authority's secondary school application form by late October. Final offers are communicated on the national secondary school offers day in early March.
How to Apply to Haberdashers' Adams
Registration Process
Begin by registering for the West Midlands Grammar Schools Entrance Test during the May-June registration period. Ensure all required documentation is submitted accurately and within the specified timeframe. Late registrations are typically not accepted, making adherence to deadlines crucial.
Oversubscription Criteria for Day Places
When qualified applicants exceed available day places, Haberdashers' Adams applies the following criteria in order:
- Looked After Children or previously Looked After Children
- Children receiving Pupil Premium who achieve within 5% of the qualifying score
- Children attending designated primary schools in Telford & Wrekin, including all Newport (TF10) area primary schools
- All other children ranked by entrance test scores, with proximity to school as tiebreaker
Boarding Applications
Boarding places are available exclusively for boys and require both entrance test success and interview assessment. The school evaluates boarding suitability considering family circumstances and individual needs. Priority is given to:
- Looked After Children or previously Looked After Children
- Children of UK Armed Forces members eligible for Ministry of Defence boarding assistance
- Children with demonstrated boarding need due to distance, family circumstances, or educational requirements
- Other qualified candidates ranked by test scores
Application Strategy
Research the school thoroughly through open days, website resources, and direct contact with the admissions team. Understanding the school's ethos and educational approach helps determine fit and preparation focus. Consider visiting during a normal school day to observe the learning environment and community atmosphere.
How Taylor Tuition Can Help
Taylor Tuition provides comprehensive 11+ preparation specifically tailored for competitive grammar school admissions like Haberdashers' Adams. Our expertise in the West Midlands Grammar Schools system ensures targeted preparation addressing the specific requirements and standards expected.
Personalised Assessment and Planning
We begin with thorough assessment of your child's current abilities across all test components. This diagnostic evaluation identifies strengths to build upon and areas requiring focused development. Our tutors create individualised study plans aligned with the West Midlands Grammar Schools test format whilst accommodating your child's learning style and schedule.
Subject-Specific Expertise
Our tutors specialise in the four key assessment areas, providing targeted instruction in English comprehension, mathematics, verbal reasoning, and non-verbal reasoning. We employ proven strategies for multiple-choice question approaches, time management, and accuracy optimisation. Regular practice with authentic test materials ensures familiarity with question styles and difficulty levels.
Mock Examinations and Performance Analysis
Taylor Tuition conducts regular mock examinations under test conditions, providing valuable experience with timing pressures and examination protocols. Detailed performance analysis identifies progress patterns and areas requiring additional focus. We adjust preparation strategies based on mock results, ensuring continuous improvement throughout the preparation period.
Confidence Building and Examination Technique
Beyond academic preparation, we focus on building examination confidence and developing effective test-taking strategies. Our tutors teach stress management techniques, question prioritisation methods, and accuracy checking procedures. This holistic approach ensures your child approaches the examination with both academic readiness and psychological preparation.
For families considering Haberdashers' Adams School, Taylor Tuition offers the expertise, resources, and personalised support necessary to maximise your child's potential for 11+ success. Contact us to discuss how we can support your family's grammar school aspirations.
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