Leighton Park School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Type: Independent co-educational day and boarding school
• Location: Shinfield Road, Reading, Berkshire RG2 7DE
• Age Range: 11-18 years
• Entry Points: 11+, 13+ and Sixth Form
• Contact: +44 118 987 9600
• Founded: 1890
• Ethos: Quaker values with progressive education

About Leighton Park School

Leighton Park School occupies a distinctive position within Berkshire's educational landscape as a progressive independent school founded on Quaker principles. Located on a stunning 60-acre campus in Reading, the school combines traditional academic rigour with innovative teaching methods and a commitment to developing confident, compassionate global citizens.

The school's Quaker heritage instils values of integrity, equality, and peace whilst fostering intellectual curiosity and creative thinking. This unique ethos permeates every aspect of school life, from the collaborative approach to learning to the emphasis on sustainability and social responsibility. Students benefit from small class sizes, typically 15-18 pupils, ensuring personalised attention and support.

Leighton Park's academic programme extends far beyond traditional subjects, incorporating cutting-edge facilities including a state-of-the-art Science Centre, Digital Innovation Hub, and award-winning Design Technology department. The school's commitment to the arts is evident through its exceptional Music School and Theatre, whilst sporting excellence is nurtured across extensive playing fields and modern sports facilities.

Fees and key dates for 2026/27

Leighton Park School publishes day fees of £9,750 per term for 2026/27, with boarding at Junior (Years 7 & 8): Weekly boarder £13,580; Full boarder £15,670 per term, and the figures above come from the school's own fees page as checked in September 2026. Registration for the next 11+ round closes on Friday 13 November 2026 (for 2027 entry to Year 7). The assessment takes place on Saturday 16 January 2027 (for 2027 entry to Year 7). Computer-based entrance tests in English and Maths (based on Year 6 learning) plus a piece of creative writing, followed by a short interview with a senior member of staff. Fees and dates change each year, so the school's website remains the reference for the current round.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Leighton Park School employs a holistic assessment approach for 11+ entry that evaluates academic potential alongside personal qualities and interests. The assessment process typically takes place during the January preceding September entry.

Assessment Components

• Mathematics Assessment: Problem-solving exercises focusing on logical reasoning and numerical fluency rather than rote learning
• English Assessment: Creative writing task and comprehension exercise designed to assess linguistic creativity and analytical thinking
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Visual pattern recognition and spatial awareness tests
• Individual Interview: Informal conversation exploring interests, aspirations, and alignment with school values

The school particularly values creativity, independent thinking, and collaborative spirit during the assessment process. Candidates are encouraged to express their personalities and demonstrate their potential beyond purely academic metrics.

How to Apply

The application process for 11+ entry at Leighton Park School begins in the academic year prior to intended entry:

• Registration: Submit registration form and fee by October 31st for September entry
• School Visit: Attend Open Morning or arrange individual visit to experience the school community
• Current School Report: Provide reference from current head teacher
• Assessment Day: Participate in January assessment including academic tests and interview
• Offer Decision: Receive outcome by February with confirmation required by March

The admissions team welcomes early engagement with prospective families and encourages visits throughout the year to fully appreciate the school's distinctive character and educational philosophy.

Preparing for the Leighton Park School 11+ with Taylor Tuition

Preparation for the Leighton Park School 11+ tends to go best when it starts early and stays steady, and most families who work with us begin between twelve and eighteen months out. Our tutors, who have prepared pupils for entry to leading independent and grammar schools including Westminster, St Paul's, Wycombe Abbey and Eton, plan the work backwards from the school's own assessment format and registration deadline.

The tutors we match to 11+ preparation are drawn from a pool in which more than half hold Qualified Teacher Status, around three in five hold a master's degree or doctorate, and which includes former heads of department, exam-board examiners and teachers from independent and boarding schools. 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.