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.

Fees and key dates for 2026/27

Lord Wandsworth College publishes day fees of £10,995 per term for 2026/27, with boarding at £15,625 to £16,185 per term, 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

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.

Preparing for the Lord Wandsworth College 11+ with Taylor Tuition

The Lord Wandsworth College 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 in the South and South West and further afield work with us online, 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.