Long Close School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Name: Long Close School
• Location: Upton Court Road, Slough, Berkshire SL3 7LU
• School Type: Independent co-educational day school
• Age Range: 2-16 years
• Phone: 01753 520095
• Email: admissions@longcloseschool.co.uk
• Website: www.longcloseschool.co.uk
• Assessment: School's own entrance exam testing English and mathematics, plus CEM Select
• Recent Achievement: Ranked 22nd in The Times Parent Power Schools Guide 2025

About Long Close School

Long Close School is Slough's only independent school, providing exceptional education for children aged 2-16 in a nurturing co-educational environment. Founded in 1940 and owned by the Cognita Group, Long Close has established itself as the largest independent school in Slough, with a proud tradition of academic excellence spanning over eight decades.

The school's commitment to individualised learning ensures each child receives personalised attention to maximise their potential. With outstanding GCSE results and exceptional 11+ preparation, Long Close creates an environment where children develop both academically and personally. The school's forest school programme and extensive outdoor learning facilities provide children with diverse educational experiences that foster confidence, independence, and a love of learning.

Long Close's recent recognition as 22nd in The Times Parent Power Schools Guide 2025 reflects the school's dedication to maintaining the highest educational standards whilst nurturing each child's unique talents and interests.

Fees and key dates for 2026/27

Long Close School publishes day fees of £7,361 per term for 2026/27, taken from the school's own fees page in October 2026. Registration dates for the next 11+ round are published by the school's admissions office. Fees and dates change each year, so the school's website remains the reference for the current round.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Long Close School operates its own independent entrance assessment system, separate from the Slough Grammar School Consortium used by local state grammar schools. This tailored approach allows the school to identify children who will thrive in their specific educational environment.

Assessment Components

• English Assessment: Reading comprehension, creative writing, and language skills evaluation
• Mathematics Assessment: Problem-solving abilities, numerical reasoning, and mathematical understanding
• CEM Select: Cognitive ability assessment measuring verbal and non-verbal reasoning skills

The school's assessment process is designed to identify children's academic potential rather than simply testing current knowledge. This approach ensures that motivated learners who may benefit from Long Close's supportive environment are recognised and welcomed into the school community.

Assessment Timing

Long Close School maintains flexible admissions throughout the year, with their dedicated admissions team available even during school holidays to arrange assessments, tours, and taster days. This flexibility allows families to explore the school at a time that suits their individual circumstances.

How to Apply

The application process for Long Close School is designed to be straightforward and supportive for families considering independent education.

Application Steps

• Initial Contact: Contact the admissions team on 01753 520095 or email admissions@longcloseschool.co.uk
• School Visit: Arrange a personalised tour to experience the school's facilities and meet the teaching staff
• Application Form: Complete the comprehensive application form available through the admissions office
• Assessment Day: Attend the school's entrance assessment covering English, mathematics, and CEM Select
• Interview: Participate in an informal interview to discuss your child's interests and aspirations
• Decision: Receive notification of the outcome and next steps for successful applicants

Required Documentation

• Previous school reports covering the last two academic years
• Reference from current head teacher or class teacher
• Birth certificate or passport for age verification
• Any relevant educational assessments or reports

Preparing for the Long Close School 11+ with Taylor Tuition

The Long Close 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.