Kew House School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School: Kew House School
• Location: Brentford, West London (TW8 0EX)
• Type: Independent co-educational day school
• Age Range: 11-18 years
• Pupils: Approximately 601
• Headmaster: Mr Will Williams
• Annual Fees: £26,955
• Class Size: Average 22 students
• Established: September 2013

About Kew House School

Kew House School is a dynamic independent co-educational school serving West London families seeking academic excellence within a nurturing environment. Located in Brentford, this modern institution has rapidly established itself as a leading choice for families prioritising individual development alongside rigorous academic standards.

The school operates under the prestigious Gardener Schools Group and received an 'excellent' rating from the Independent Schools Inspectorate in April 2022. This recognition reflects the school's commitment to developing confident, creative students who excel academically whilst maintaining strong personal values.

Kew House School's philosophy centres on recognising each pupil's unique strengths and fostering an environment where academic achievement flourishes alongside personal growth. The school's modern facilities include state-of-the-art classrooms, a dedicated Sixth Form Centre with independent learning spaces, and comprehensive sports amenities that support the extensive extracurricular programme.

The curriculum encompasses a full range of GCSE and A-Level subjects, delivered by specialist teachers who understand the demands of competitive academic pathways. Beyond academics, the school offers exceptional opportunities in sports, creative arts, and leadership development, ensuring pupils develop into well-rounded individuals prepared for future challenges.

The 11+ Assessment Process at Kew House School

Kew House School employs a comprehensive assessment approach designed to identify pupils who will thrive in their academic environment whilst contributing positively to the school community.

Assessment Components

• Cognitive Abilities Test (CAT): Evaluates reasoning abilities across verbal, non-verbal, and quantitative domains
• English Assessment: Tests reading comprehension, writing skills, and language proficiency
• Mathematics Assessment: Examines numerical reasoning, problem-solving abilities, and mathematical concepts appropriate to age
• Personal Interview: Assesses character, motivation, and compatibility with school values

The school's assessment process recognises that academic potential manifests differently in each child. Rather than focusing solely on test scores, admissions decisions consider the whole child, including their enthusiasm for learning, resilience, and potential to contribute to school life.

Preparation Expectations

Successful candidates typically demonstrate solid foundational skills in core subjects, logical reasoning abilities, and genuine enthusiasm for learning. The school values pupils who show curiosity, creativity, and the confidence to engage with new challenges.

How to Apply

The application process for Kew House School is designed to be straightforward whilst ensuring the best possible match between pupil and school.

Application Steps

• Initial Enquiry: Contact the admissions office to request information and arrange a school visit
• School Visit: Attend an open day or arrange a personal tour to experience the school environment
• Application Submission: Complete the application form with supporting documentation
• Assessment Day: Participate in the school's assessment process, including tests and interview
• Decision: Receive notification of outcome and next steps

The school encourages families to visit before applying, as this provides invaluable insight into whether Kew House School aligns with their educational aspirations and family values.

Application Timing

Applications typically open in the autumn term preceding entry, with assessment days scheduled in late autumn and early spring. Early application is recommended, particularly given the school's growing reputation and limited places available.

Preparing for the Kew House School 11+ with Taylor Tuition

The Kew House 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.