Heathfield School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

School Type: Independent boarding and day school for girls
Ages: 11-18 years
Location: Ascot, Berkshire
Founded: 1899
Total Pupils: 230 (91 day pupils, 139 boarders)
Entry Points: 11+ and 13+
Assessment: Online CEM test and headmistress interview
Registration: Assessment held in November of Year 8
Affiliation: Christian

About Heathfield School

Nestled in 36 acres of beautiful grounds on the outskirts of Ascot, Heathfield School has been providing exceptional education for girls since 1899. This intimate Christian school creates a nurturing environment where each of its 230 pupils is known individually, fostering both academic excellence and personal growth.

The school's recent investments in state-of-the-art facilities demonstrate its commitment to modern education whilst preserving traditional values. The impressive STEM building encourages scientific inquiry and innovation, whilst the purpose-built Performing Arts Theatre provides a professional venue for the school's renowned drama and music programmes. The dedicated Sixth Form Centre offers senior pupils an environment that bridges school and university life, and the digital recording studio reflects the school's progressive approach to creative arts.

Heathfield's Christian ethos permeates all aspects of school life, with the Chapel serving as the spiritual heart of the community. The school's holistic approach ensures that pupils develop not only academically but also morally and spiritually, preparing them for leadership roles in society.

Fees and key dates for 2026/27

Heathfield School publishes day fees of £9,495 per term for 2026/27, with boarding at £17,783 to £18,720 per term, taken from the school's own fees page in October 2026. Registration dates for the next 11+ round are published by the school's admissions office. Fees and dates change each year, so the school's website remains the reference for the current round.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Heathfield School's 13+ assessment process is designed to identify pupils who will thrive within the school's unique environment. The school seeks girls who demonstrate academic potential alongside broader interests and talents that align with the school's comprehensive co-curricular programme.

The assessment takes place in November of Year 8 for entry the following September into Form III (Year 9). This timing allows families to make informed decisions about their daughter's secondary education whilst providing the school with a comprehensive view of each candidate's abilities.

The evaluation consists of:

• Online CEM Test: A computer-based assessment evaluating numeracy, literacy, and non-verbal reasoning abilities
• Headmistress Interview: A personal conversation to understand the candidate's interests, aspirations, and suitability for Heathfield's community
• School References: Reports from the candidate's current school providing insight into academic progress and character

Importantly, Heathfield emphasises that the assessment evaluates potential rather than specific knowledge, meaning extensive tutoring is not necessary. The school seeks pupils who will benefit from and contribute to the full range of opportunities available across academics, arts, sports, and co-curricular activities.

How to Apply

The application process for Heathfield School follows these essential steps:

• Initial Registration: Contact the admissions office to register your daughter for assessment
• Assessment Day: Attend the November assessment session during your daughter's Year 8
• Supporting Documentation: Ensure current school references are submitted as part of the application
• Decision: Await the school's decision following the assessment process

Prospective families are encouraged to visit the school before applying to experience the unique atmosphere and meet current pupils and staff. The school's admissions team provides personalised guidance throughout the process, recognising that choosing the right secondary school is a significant family decision.

Unlike many independent schools, Heathfield does not require Common Entrance preparation, making the transition from primary education more straightforward for families seeking a school that values potential over intensive academic preparation.

Preparing for the Heathfield School 11+ with Taylor Tuition

The Heathfield School 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.