Hymers College: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• Name: Hymers College
• Location: Kingston upon Hull, East Yorkshire
• Type: Independent co-educational day school
• Age Range: 3 to 18 years
• Founded: 1893
• Headmaster: Mr Justin Stanley
• Student Numbers: Approximately 1,054 pupils
• Campus: 45-acre site with comprehensive facilities
• Fees: £627 to £4,735 per term

About Hymers College

Hymers College occupies a commanding position within Hull's educational landscape, offering exceptional academic rigour across its 45-acre campus. Established in 1893, this distinguished independent school has evolved from its origins as a boys' institution to become a fully co-educational establishment, completing this transition by 1989.

The college's academic reputation rests upon consistently outstanding examination results, placing it amongst the highest-performing independent schools nationwide. With approximately 1,054 pupils, the school maintains an optimal balance between personalised attention and vibrant community atmosphere. The substantial campus provides extensive facilities supporting both academic excellence and comprehensive extracurricular programmes.

Under Mr Justin Stanley's leadership, Hymers College emphasises character development alongside academic achievement. The school's ethos centres on nurturing confident, articulate young people who demonstrate both intellectual curiosity and strong moral foundations. This approach resonates particularly well with families seeking an education that prepares children for leadership roles in their chosen fields.

Fees and key dates for 2026/27

Hymers College publishes day fees of £6,545 (Year 7 to 13) 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: Recommended by early December (no fixed deadline for fee-paying places); Fee Remission (bursary) deadline was Friday 28 November 2025, both for the 2026/27 (Sept 2026 entry) round, the most recent published; next round not yet published. Assessment dates: Year 7 stage 1: Wed 7 or Thu 8 January (page states "2025", appears to be a site typo for 2026); stage 2 (all applicants): Saturday 17 January 2026, for Sept 2026 entry; next round not yet published. Year 7 applicants sit a written Maths paper, a written English paper (comprehension and creative writing), an informal interview, and a computer-based CEM test, with those applying by December also invited to an informal "fun day" with peers. Fees and dates change each year, so the school's website remains the reference for the current round.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Hymers College employs a comprehensive assessment process for Year 7 entry, designed to identify pupils who will thrive within the school's academic environment. The 11+ examination evaluates candidates across multiple disciplines, ensuring a thorough understanding of each child's potential.

Assessment Components:

• Mathematics paper testing numerical reasoning and problem-solving abilities
• English examination covering comprehension, creative writing, and language skills
• Verbal reasoning assessment evaluating logical thinking and vocabulary
• Non-verbal reasoning test measuring spatial awareness and pattern recognition

Beyond academic testing, the college conducts individual interviews to assess personal qualities, motivation, and compatibility with the school's values. These conversations provide valuable insight into each candidate's character and potential contribution to the school community.

The admissions team also requests detailed references from current schools, focusing on academic performance, behaviour, and social development. This comprehensive approach ensures successful candidates possess both the intellectual capacity and personal attributes necessary for success at Hymers College.

How to Apply

The application process for Hymers College follows a structured timeline, with multiple entry points available throughout the academic year. Families should begin preparations well in advance to ensure optimal outcomes.

Application Steps:

1. Initial Enquiry: Contact the admissions office to request information and application materials
2. School Visit: Attend open days or arrange private tours to experience the campus atmosphere
3. Application Submission: Complete comprehensive application forms including academic records and personal statements
4. Assessment Preparation: Prepare for entrance examinations through targeted revision and practice papers
5. Assessment Day: Attend scheduled examination sessions and interview appointments
6. Decision Notification: Receive admissions decisions and, if successful, confirm acceptance

The college typically holds assessment days during the autumn term for September entry, though specific dates vary annually. Early application is strongly recommended, particularly for popular entry points such as Year 7 and Sixth Form.

Preparing for the Hymers College 11+ with Taylor Tuition

The Hymers College 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.