Highclare School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Name: Highclare School
• Type: Independent Coeducational Day School
• Founded: 1932
• Age Range: 2-18 years
• Location: Three campuses in Sutton Coldfield and Erdington, Birmingham
• Head: Dr. Richard Luker
• Motto: "Facta non Verba" (Actions speak louder than words)
• Phone: 0121 373 7400
• Email: admissions@highclareschool.co.uk

About Highclare School

Established in 1932, Highclare School has built a reputation as one of Birmingham's most respected independent schools, serving families across Sutton Coldfield and the wider West Midlands region. The school's Latin motto "Facta non Verba" perfectly encapsulates its practical, results-focused approach to education that has guided generations of students towards academic and personal success.

Operating across three purpose-built campuses, Highclare maintains an intimate, family-centred atmosphere whilst providing comprehensive facilities for children from nursery through to sixth form. This unique multi-site arrangement allows the school to tailor its environment specifically to different age groups, ensuring that each child receives age-appropriate support and challenge.

The school's recent Independent Schools Inspectorate inspection awarded Highclare the highest possible ratings across all areas, particularly noting the exceptional standards of both academic achievement and personal development. This recognition reflects the school's commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals who excel not only academically but also develop strong character, leadership skills, and social responsibility.

Highclare's distinctive approach combines rigorous academic standards with extensive co-curricular opportunities, including specialist programmes in music, ballet, and astronomy. This breadth of offering ensures that every child can discover and develop their particular talents and interests whilst building the confidence and resilience essential for future success.

The 11+ Assessment Process at Highclare School

Highclare School employs a comprehensive assessment process for Year 7 entry that evaluates both academic capability and overall potential for success within the school's supportive community. The assessment is designed to identify children who will thrive in Highclare's academically rigorous yet nurturing environment.

Assessment Components:

• Mathematics: Evaluates numerical reasoning, problem-solving abilities, and mathematical concepts appropriate for Year 6 level
• English: Tests reading comprehension, written expression, grammar, vocabulary, and creative writing skills
• Verbal Reasoning: Assesses logical thinking, language skills, and ability to understand and manipulate verbal information
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Examines spatial awareness, pattern recognition, and logical reasoning using diagrams and shapes

The school takes a holistic approach to assessment, considering not only test results but also a child's overall academic potential, enthusiasm for learning, and ability to contribute positively to the school community. Highclare recognises that academic excellence can manifest in various ways and seeks to identify children who will benefit from and contribute to the school's collaborative learning environment.

Assessment days are designed to be as comfortable as possible for candidates, with experienced staff ensuring a supportive atmosphere that allows children to demonstrate their true abilities.

How to Apply to Highclare School

The admissions process at Highclare School is designed to be straightforward and supportive for families considering independent education in Birmingham.

Application Steps:

1. Initial Enquiry: Contact the admissions team to discuss your child's educational needs and arrange an introductory conversation
2. School Visit: Attend a scheduled open day or arrange a personal tour to experience Highclare's unique atmosphere and facilities across all three campuses
3. Registration: Complete the registration form and submit required documentation, including recent school reports
4. Assessment: Your child will be invited to attend assessment sessions appropriate to their intended year of entry
5. Decision: The school will communicate the outcome promptly and provide detailed feedback regardless of the result

Financial Support: Highclare School offers both academic scholarships and means-tested bursaries for Year 7 entry, ensuring that exceptional candidates are not prevented from joining the school due to financial constraints. The admissions team can provide confidential guidance about available support during the application process.

Key Contact: Mr. J Light, Admissions and Communications Manager, is available to guide families through every stage of the application process and answer any questions about life at Highclare School.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition's specialist 11+ preparation programme is specifically designed to help children succeed in Highclare School's comprehensive assessment process. Our experienced tutors understand the particular requirements and standards expected by Birmingham's leading independent schools.

Tailored Preparation Programme:

• Diagnostic Assessment: We begin with a thorough evaluation of your child's current academic level and identify specific areas for development
• Customised Curriculum: Our tutors create personalised learning plans that address your child's individual strengths and areas for improvement
• Practise Materials: We provide extensive practice papers and resources that mirror Highclare's assessment format and difficulty level
• Confidence Building: Our approach focuses not only on academic preparation but also on developing the confidence and resilience necessary for assessment success

Subject-Specific Expertise: Our mathematics specialists focus on problem-solving techniques and mathematical reasoning skills, whilst our English experts develop comprehension abilities, creative writing, and vocabulary. Our reasoning specialists provide targeted practice in both verbal and non-verbal reasoning techniques essential for 11+ success.

Mock Assessments: We conduct regular practice sessions under timed conditions, helping children become familiar with assessment formats and time management strategies. This preparation significantly reduces anxiety and allows children to perform at their best on assessment day.

With our deep understanding of Highclare School's values and expectations, Taylor Tuition ensures your child is thoroughly prepared not only for the assessment process but also for success in their chosen independent school environment.