Milton Abbey School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Type: Co-educational independent boarding and day school
• Age Range: 13-19 years
• Location: Blandford Forum, Dorset
• Total Pupils: 208
• Boarding Fees: £16,545 to £17,045 per term
• Day Fees: £8,690 to £9,190 per term
• Religious Affiliation: Church of England
• Entry Points: Primary entry at 13+ (Year 9)

About Milton Abbey School

Milton Abbey School occupies a magnificent setting in the Dorset countryside near Blandford Forum, providing an exceptional educational environment for students aged 13-19. This distinctive co-educational school combines the best of traditional independent education with innovative vocational pathways, creating opportunities for students with diverse talents and aspirations.

The school's unique character stems from its commitment to being both selective and inclusive, welcoming students with a broad range of abilities whilst maintaining high academic standards. Milton Abbey's approach recognises that educational excellence extends beyond traditional academic subjects, offering extensive vocational qualifications alongside conventional A-levels and GCSEs.

Set within historic buildings and beautiful grounds, the school provides an inspiring backdrop for learning. The intimate size of just 208 pupils ensures personalised attention and strong pastoral care, with students benefiting from close relationships with teaching staff and a genuine sense of community.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Important Note: Milton Abbey's primary entry point is at 13+ rather than 11+. Most pupils join the school in the Third Form (Year 9) at age 13.

For families considering earlier entry or alternative pathways, the school's assessment process focuses on:

• Holistic Evaluation: The school assesses students' potential to benefit from and contribute to the Milton Abbey community
• Cognitive Assessment: CAT4 or equivalent cognitive test scores from the student's current school
• Personal Interview: Meeting with the Head or Deputy Head during the admissions visit
• School Reference: Comprehensive report from the student's current educational setting

Milton Abbey does not require Common Entrance examination results, instead preferring a more personalised assessment approach that recognises individual strengths and potential.

How to Apply

The application process at Milton Abbey is designed to be straightforward and supportive:

1. Initial Registration
Complete the registration form to begin the admissions process and receive detailed information about the school's programmes.

2. Admissions Visit
Arrange an individual visit to experience the school firsthand. This comprehensive visit includes:

• Personal interview with senior leadership
• Guided tour of academic facilities and boarding houses
• Opportunity to speak with current students and teaching staff
• Discussion of individual educational needs and aspirations

3. Assessment and Reference
Following your visit, the school will request a reference from your child's current school, including cognitive test scores. Milton Abbey aims to provide quick, unconditional offers based on this holistic assessment.

4. Special Educational Needs
Students with specific learning requirements will have their needs reviewed by the Head of Learning Development to ensure appropriate support can be provided.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Our experienced team at Taylor Tuition understands the unique character of Milton Abbey School and can provide tailored support for families considering this exceptional educational opportunity:

Personalised School Selection Guidance
We help families determine whether Milton Abbey's distinctive blend of academic and vocational education aligns with their child's interests, abilities, and future aspirations.

Application Strategy Development
Our consultants provide expert guidance on presenting your child's strengths effectively during the admissions visit and interview process, ensuring they make the best possible impression.

Interview Preparation
We offer specialised coaching to help students feel confident and articulate during their meeting with school leadership, practising responses to typical questions whilst maintaining authenticity.

Transition Support
Our team provides ongoing guidance throughout the application process and can offer advice on preparing for the transition to Milton Abbey's unique educational environment.

Educational Planning
We work with families to understand how Milton Abbey's academic and vocational programmes can support long-term educational and career goals, particularly for students who may benefit from alternative pathways to university or career success.

For personalised guidance on Milton Abbey School admissions, contact Taylor Tuition to speak with our specialist consultants who understand the nuances of independent school applications in Dorset and beyond.