Lord Wandsworth College: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School: Lord Wandsworth College
• Location: Long Sutton, Hampshire
• Type: Co-educational independent school
• Age Range: 11-18 years
• Founded: 1921
• Entry Points: Year 7 (11+), Year 9, and Sixth Form
• Assessment: English, Mathematics, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning
• Application Deadline: December for Year 7 entry

About Lord Wandsworth College

Set within 1,200 acres of stunning Hampshire countryside, Lord Wandsworth College has been nurturing young minds since 1921. This co-educational independent school combines academic rigour with exceptional pastoral care, creating an environment where students flourish both intellectually and personally.

The college's distinctive approach centres on its founding principle "In the Service of Others", which permeates every aspect of school life. This ethos shapes confident, compassionate individuals who are well-prepared for the challenges of modern life. The school's unique countryside setting provides unparalleled opportunities for outdoor learning and character development.

Lord Wandsworth College offers exceptional facilities including state-of-the-art science laboratories, a dedicated arts centre, extensive sports facilities, and a comprehensive library. The school's commitment to small class sizes ensures personalised attention, with an average class size of just 15 students, allowing teachers to identify and nurture each child's individual strengths.

The college's House system creates a strong sense of community and belonging, with dedicated House staff providing mentorship and support throughout each student's journey. This supportive environment has contributed to the school's impressive academic results, with students regularly achieving places at top universities including Oxford and Cambridge.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Lord Wandsworth College's Year 7 entry assessment takes place in January and is designed to identify students who will thrive in the school's supportive yet challenging academic environment. The assessment process evaluates both academic potential and personal qualities that align with the college's values.

The entrance examination comprises four key components:

• English: Reading comprehension tasks and creative writing exercises that assess literacy skills, imagination, and ability to express ideas clearly
• Mathematics: Problem-solving questions covering Year 6 curriculum topics, emphasising mathematical reasoning rather than rote learning
• Verbal Reasoning: Tests logical thinking using language-based puzzles, vocabulary, and comprehension skills
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Spatial awareness and pattern recognition exercises using shapes, diagrams, and visual sequences

Following the written assessments, shortlisted candidates attend an individual interview with senior staff members. This conversation explores the student's interests, motivations, and potential contribution to college life. The college values curiosity, resilience, and kindness alongside academic ability.

Parents receive assessment feedback regardless of the outcome, reflecting the school's commitment to supporting every child's educational journey. The college seeks students who will benefit from its unique approach to education and contribute positively to the community.

How to Apply

The application process for Lord Wandsworth College Year 7 entry follows a structured timeline designed to give families adequate preparation time:

• School Visits: Attend an Open Day or arrange a personal tour to experience the college's exceptional facilities and meet staff members
• Registration: Submit the completed application form with registration fee by the December deadline
• Entrance Assessment: Students sit the entrance examinations in January at the college
• Interviews: Shortlisted candidates attend individual interviews with senior staff
• Offers: Successful applicants receive conditional offers based on assessment performance
• Acceptance: Families confirm acceptance and submit the acceptance deposit

The college operates a needs-blind admissions policy for the initial assessment stage, ensuring all students are evaluated purely on merit and potential. Financial support is available through the college's bursary programme for families who require assistance with fees.

Prospective families are encouraged to engage with the college well before the application deadline. The admissions team provides comprehensive guidance throughout the process and welcomes questions about academic programmes, pastoral care, and school life.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition's specialist 11+ preparation programme is specifically designed to help students excel in Lord Wandsworth College's entrance assessments. Our experienced tutors understand the college's unique approach to evaluating candidates and provide targeted preparation that goes beyond standard 11+ coaching.

Our comprehensive support includes:

• Diagnostic Assessment: Detailed evaluation of your child's current abilities across all four examination components
• Personalised Tuition: Bespoke lesson plans addressing individual strengths and areas for development
• Exam Technique Training: Specific strategies for Lord Wandsworth College's assessment format and timing
• Interview Preparation: Mock interviews and confidence-building exercises to help students articulate their interests and aspirations
• Progress Monitoring: Regular assessments and detailed feedback to track improvement and adjust teaching approaches

Our tutors work closely with families to ensure students arrive at their assessment feeling confident and well-prepared. We understand that Lord Wandsworth College values well-rounded individuals, so our preparation encompasses both academic excellence and personal development.

Many of our students have successfully gained places at Lord Wandsworth College, and we maintain relationships with current families to ensure our preparation remains aligned with the school's expectations. Our proven track record and deep understanding of independent school admissions make us the ideal partner for your family's journey to Lord Wandsworth College.