Mayville High School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Type: Independent co-educational day school
• Age Range: 2-16 years
• Location: 35-37 St Simon's Road, Southsea, Portsmouth, PO5 2PE
• Pupil Numbers: Approximately 491 students (268 boys, 223 girls)
• Annual Fees: £4,800 - £5,548 per term
• Headteacher: Mrs Rebecca Parkyn
• Phone: 023 9273 4847
• Website: mayvillehighschool.com

About Mayville High School

Mayville High School has established itself as a distinctive educational institution in Portsmouth's Southsea area, serving families who value personalised learning in an intimate school environment. The school's commitment to the "whole child" philosophy ensures that each student receives individualised attention through exceptionally small class sizes, allowing teachers to adapt their methods to meet diverse learning needs.

Located in the heart of Southsea, the school benefits from its coastal setting whilst maintaining strong connections to Portsmouth's rich maritime heritage. The school's inclusive approach particularly shines through its dedicated support units for students with learning differences, ensuring that every child can flourish regardless of their starting point.

Under the leadership of Mrs Rebecca Parkyn and Deputy Principal Mrs Jayne Williams, Mayville High School has cultivated a strong sense of community where academic excellence is balanced with personal development. The school's relatively modest size creates an environment where students are known individually by staff, fostering confidence and enabling each child to discover their unique strengths.

The 11+ Assessment Process at Mayville High School

Mayville High School's approach to Year 7 admissions reflects the school's understanding that academic potential manifests differently in each child. The assessment process is designed to identify students who will thrive in the school's supportive yet academically focused environment.

The entrance assessment typically covers four key areas:

• Mathematics: Fundamental arithmetic skills, problem-solving abilities, and mathematical reasoning appropriate for Year 6 level
• English: Reading comprehension, grammar and punctuation understanding, plus creative writing to assess expression and imagination
• Verbal Reasoning: Logic and reasoning skills using word-based problems and concepts
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Pattern recognition and spatial awareness through shape and diagram-based questions

The school recognises that some children may require additional support or different approaches to demonstrate their abilities. Mayville's assessment process takes into account each child's individual circumstances, ensuring that the evaluation is both fair and comprehensive.

How to Apply

The application process for Year 7 entry at Mayville High School is designed to be straightforward whilst allowing the school to understand each prospective student thoroughly:

Step 1: Initial Enquiry
Contact the school directly via telephone (023 9273 4847) or through their website to express interest and receive detailed admissions information.

Step 2: School Visit
Arrange a personal tour of the school to meet key staff and experience the learning environment firsthand. This provides valuable insight into whether Mayville's approach aligns with your child's needs.

Step 3: Application Submission
Complete the formal application form, available online or from the school office. Submit this alongside:

• Previous school reports covering the most recent two years
• Any relevant information about learning support needs
• Character reference from current headteacher

Step 4: Assessment Day
Your child will be invited to attend an assessment session, typically held during school hours to provide an authentic environment. This includes the academic assessments plus an informal interview.

Step 5: Decision and Confirmation
Families receive notification of the admissions decision, usually within two weeks of the assessment. Successful applicants will receive detailed information about next steps and preparation for starting at Mayville.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition's deep understanding of Mayville High School's admissions process and educational philosophy enables us to provide targeted preparation that aligns perfectly with the school's expectations. Our approach recognises that Mayville values not just academic ability, but also the personal qualities that contribute to their inclusive community.

Our specialist 11+ preparation for Mayville High School includes:

• Personalised Assessment Preparation: Tailored coaching in mathematics, English, and reasoning skills that reflects Mayville's specific requirements and assessment style
• Confidence Building: Techniques to help your child feel comfortable and confident during the assessment process, particularly important given Mayville's emphasis on knowing each child individually
• Interview Preparation: Guidance on the informal interview component, helping your child articulate their interests and demonstrate the personal qualities Mayville seeks
• Application Strategy: Expert advice on presenting your child's unique strengths and any learning support needs in the most positive light

Our tutors' familiarity with Portsmouth's educational landscape and Mayville's particular approach ensures that your child receives preparation that goes beyond generic 11+ coaching. We understand that Mayville seeks students who will contribute positively to their close-knit community whilst benefiting from their supportive academic environment.

For families considering Mayville High School, Taylor Tuition provides the expertise and personalised support needed to navigate the admissions process successfully whilst ensuring your child is genuinely prepared to thrive in this unique educational setting.