Ilford County High School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Type: Selective grammar school for boys
• Age Range: 11-18 years
• Location: Barkingside, London Borough of Redbridge
• Founded: 1901 (originally Park Higher Grade School)
• Headteacher: Mrs Rebecca Drysdale
• Ofsted Rating: Outstanding (September 2021)
• Annual Intake: 180 boys into Year 7
• Entry Requirements: Redbridge 11+ examination
• Application Deadline: As per Redbridge secondary admissions timetable

About Ilford County High School

Ilford County High School has been a cornerstone of academic excellence in East London for over 120 years. Established in 1901 as Park Higher Grade School, ICHS has evolved into one of the most respected grammar schools in the London Borough of Redbridge, consistently delivering outstanding educational outcomes for boys aged 11 to 18.

The school operates as a six-form entry institution, welcoming up to 30 pupils per form across its Year 7 intake. This selective environment fosters a culture of high academic achievement whilst maintaining a supportive community atmosphere that encourages both intellectual curiosity and character development.

Located in the leafy suburb of Barkingside, the school benefits from excellent transport links whilst providing a focused learning environment away from central London distractions. The school's commitment to academic rigour is reflected in its Outstanding Ofsted rating, achieved through consistent delivery of exceptional teaching and learning experiences.

ICHS prides itself on developing well-rounded young men who excel not only academically but also in leadership, community service, and personal development. The school's comprehensive sixth form provision ensures continuity of educational excellence through to university preparation.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Entry to Ilford County High School is determined exclusively through the Redbridge 11+ examination, administered by the London Borough of Redbridge as the admissions authority. This selective process ensures that admitted students can thrive in the school's academically demanding environment.

The Redbridge 11+ assessment typically evaluates candidates across four key areas:

• Verbal Reasoning: Testing comprehension, vocabulary, and logical thinking through language-based problems
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Assessing spatial awareness, pattern recognition, and logical reasoning using visual puzzles
• Mathematics: Covering numerical reasoning, problem-solving, and mathematical concepts appropriate for Year 6 level
• English: Evaluating reading comprehension, grammar, spelling, and written expression skills

The examination is designed to identify students with the academic potential to succeed in a grammar school environment. Results determine admission to ICHS, with 180 places available for boys entering Year 7 each September.

A waiting list is maintained by Redbridge for Years 7-11, providing opportunities for late-emerging places. Sixth form admissions follow a separate process managed directly by the school under borough guidelines.

How to Apply

Applications to Ilford County High School must be submitted through the London Borough of Redbridge secondary school admissions process. The key steps include:

Registration Phase:

• Register for the Redbridge 11+ examination through the borough's admissions portal
• Complete the Common Application Form (CAF) listing ICHS as a preference
• Ensure all documentation is submitted by the specified deadline
• Attend any required information sessions or school visits

Assessment Phase:

• Sit the Redbridge 11+ examination at the designated test centre
• Await results notification from the borough
• Respond promptly to any requests for additional information

Allocation Phase:

• Receive allocation results on National Offer Day
• Accept or decline the offered place within the specified timeframe
• Complete school-specific enrolment procedures if successful

For detailed information about application procedures, key dates, and examination arrangements, contact the Redbridge Secondary Admissions Department at admissions@redbridge.gov.uk.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition specialises in preparing ambitious students for selective school admissions, including Ilford County High School's competitive 11+ process. Our comprehensive support programme is specifically designed for families seeking excellence in grammar school preparation.

Personalised 11+ Preparation:

• Detailed diagnostic assessment to identify strengths and development areas
• Customised study programmes aligned with Redbridge 11+ requirements
• Expert tuition in verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, mathematics, and English
• Regular progress monitoring and strategy adjustments

Strategic Application Guidance:

• Comprehensive analysis of Redbridge admissions procedures and timelines
• Strategic advice on school preferences and backup options
• Support with application completion and documentation
• Ongoing guidance throughout the admissions cycle

Examination Techniques:

• Familiarity with Redbridge 11+ format and timing
• Practise under realistic examination conditions
• Time management strategies and stress reduction techniques
• Mock examinations with detailed performance analysis

Our experienced consultants understand the unique demands of grammar school selection and provide families with the expertise, resources, and confidence needed to navigate this competitive process successfully. We are committed to helping your child achieve their full potential and secure their place at this exceptional institution.