Lancing College: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

School Type: Independent co-educational day and boarding school
Age Range: 13-18 years
Location: West Sussex
Founded: 1848
Student Numbers: Approximately 600
Entry Points: 13+ (Year 9) - Third Form
Application Deadline: End of October, Year 6
Registration Fee: £200
Assessment Method: Advance Programme with CAT4 test, written task, and interview

About Lancing College

Lancing College occupies a magnificent position on the South Downs in West Sussex, where its iconic chapel dominates the skyline. Founded in 1848 by Nathaniel Woodard as part of his vision for Christian education, the college has evolved into one of England's most distinctive independent schools whilst maintaining its founding values at the heart of school life.

The college's academic excellence is evident in its consistently strong results, with 56% of GCSE grades achieved at 9-7 level in 2023. This performance reflects the school's commitment to nurturing intellectual curiosity and academic rigour across its curriculum. The college's position within the Lancing family of schools provides additional educational pathways and opportunities for families seeking continuity in their children's education.

What sets Lancing apart is its unique blend of traditional values and modern educational approaches. The college's Christian ethos creates a supportive community where students develop not only academically but also in character and leadership. The stunning campus, with its historic buildings and modern facilities, provides an inspiring environment for learning and personal growth.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Lancing College operates a distinctive entry system focused on 13+ admission to Year 9 (Third Form), though the assessment process begins much earlier through their Advance Programme. This programme is specifically designed for UK-based students and represents the college's recommended entry route.

The assessment takes place during Year 6, allowing families to secure their child's place well in advance. The process includes:

• CAT4 Online Assessment: Cognitive Ability Test measuring reasoning skills across verbal, non-verbal, quantitative, and spatial areas
• Written Task: Evaluating written communication skills and creative thinking
• Individual Interview: Assessing personal qualities, interests, and potential contribution to college life
• Experience Day Activities: Participation in both academic and extracurricular activities to evaluate social skills and adaptability

The college particularly values students who demonstrate kindness and social awareness alongside academic ability. This holistic approach ensures that successful candidates will thrive in Lancing's supportive community environment.

For students seeking scholarships, separate assessments are available in Year 8 across academics, art, drama, music, all-rounder capabilities, cricket, and sport. These scholarships recognise exceptional talent and potential whilst providing financial support for deserving families.

How to Apply

The application process for Lancing College's Advance Programme follows a carefully structured timeline designed to support both families and the college in making informed decisions:

Initial Steps:

• Contact the admissions team to arrange a campus visit and discuss your child's educational needs
• Submit the completed registration form by the end of October in Year 6
• Pay the £200 registration fee to secure your application
• Provide two recent school reports demonstrating academic progress
• Submit a reference from your child's current school

Assessment Phase:

• Attend the Experience Day in January of Year 6, where your child will participate in the full assessment process
• Complete all required components including the CAT4 test, written task, and interview
• Engage in academic and extracurricular activities to demonstrate potential fit with the college community

Decision Timeline:

• Offers are typically made between February and March of Year 6
• Successful candidates receive detailed information about next steps and preparation for entry
• Places must be confirmed according to the college's specified deadlines

The college strongly emphasises using this early entry route, as places available for later entry are significantly limited. This advance planning allows families to make informed decisions about their child's educational journey whilst ensuring adequate preparation time.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition's expertise in independent school admissions makes us ideally positioned to support your family's application to Lancing College. Our comprehensive approach addresses every aspect of the Advance Programme assessment, ensuring your child presents their strongest possible application.

CAT4 Test Preparation: Our specialists provide targeted practice sessions focusing on the four key reasoning areas assessed in the CAT4. We identify your child's strengths and areas for development, creating personalised preparation programmes that build confidence and technique. Our approach ensures students understand the test format whilst developing the underlying cognitive skills that Lancing values.

Written Task Excellence: We work closely with students to enhance their written communication skills, focusing on clarity, creativity, and structured thinking. Our tutors help students develop techniques for approaching unseen written tasks with confidence, ensuring they can demonstrate their intellectual curiosity and communication abilities effectively.

Interview Preparation: Through practice interviews and personalised coaching, we help students articulate their interests, aspirations, and potential contributions to college life. Our preparation focuses on developing natural conversation skills whilst ensuring students can discuss their academic interests and extracurricular passions with enthusiasm and authenticity.

Experience Day Success: We prepare students for the collaborative and interactive elements of the Experience Day, helping them understand how to engage positively in group activities whilst demonstrating the social skills and kindness that Lancing particularly values. Our guidance ensures students can showcase their personality and potential effectively.

Strategic Application Support: Our admissions consultants work with families to ensure all application materials present a compelling and authentic picture of your child. We provide guidance on school reports, references, and the overall application strategy to maximise your chances of success.

Ongoing Partnership: Beyond admission, we continue supporting students through their transition to Lancing, ensuring they are well-prepared for the academic and social demands of their new environment. Our long-term approach helps students thrive throughout their educational journey.