Newstead Wood School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Type: Selective girls' grammar school (mixed sixth form)
• Age Range: 11-18 years
• Location: Avebury Road, Orpington, Kent, BR6 9SA
• Pupils: Approximately 1,250 students
• Ofsted Rating: Outstanding (2022)
• 11+ Registration: May 1 - June 30 annually
• Minimum Score: 210 marks (age-standardised)
• Exam Format: Two papers - verbal and non-verbal reasoning

About Newstead Wood School

Established in 1954, Newstead Wood School has developed into one of Kent's most academically rigorous grammar schools. Operating under the motto Fortitudine Crescamus ("May we grow in strength"), the school combines exceptional academic achievement with comprehensive character development programmes.

Under the leadership of Headteacher Mr. Alan Blount, Newstead Wood maintains its reputation for academic excellence whilst fostering a supportive environment where girls can flourish. The school's Outstanding Ofsted rating reflects its commitment to providing exceptional educational opportunities across all year groups.

Beyond academics, the school offers extensive enrichment programmes including competitive sports, music ensembles, and the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme. The mixed sixth form provides additional opportunities for collaboration and prepares students effectively for university entrance and future careers.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Newstead Wood School utilises a comprehensive two-paper assessment system designed to identify students with strong reasoning abilities and academic potential. The examination focuses specifically on verbal and non-verbal reasoning skills, ensuring fair assessment of cognitive ability rather than curriculum knowledge.

Assessment Components

Verbal Reasoning Paper: This 50-minute examination tests students' ability to understand and manipulate language through logical reasoning. Questions assess comprehension skills, vocabulary knowledge, and the ability to identify patterns in written information.

Non-Verbal Reasoning Paper: Also lasting approximately 50 minutes, this paper evaluates students' capacity to analyse visual information and identify logical sequences. The assessment includes pattern recognition, spatial awareness, and abstract reasoning challenges.

Both papers utilise multiple-choice formats and are marked using GL Assessment's Optical Mark Recognition technology to ensure accuracy and consistency. Scores are age-standardised and combined to create a final ranking, with successful candidates requiring a minimum of 210 marks.

How to Apply

The application process for Newstead Wood School requires careful attention to specific deadlines and procedures:

Step 1: 11+ Registration

Registration opens annually on May 1st and closes on June 30th. Parents must complete the online registration process through the appropriate testing authority, ensuring all required documentation is submitted within the deadline.

Step 2: Examination Period

The 11+ examination typically takes place in late September across two days. Students will sit both verbal and non-verbal reasoning papers at designated test centres, with specific times and locations confirmed following successful registration.

Step 3: Secondary School Application

Parents must complete their local council's Common Application Form by October 31st, listing Newstead Wood School as one of their preferences. This application is separate from the 11+ registration and is essential for consideration.

Step 4: Results and Allocation

11+ results are typically released during the third week of October, followed by final school place allocations on March 3rd. Due to high demand and limited capacity, achieving the minimum qualifying score does not guarantee admission.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition's specialised 11+ preparation programmes are designed specifically for families targeting highly competitive grammar schools like Newstead Wood. Our expert tutors understand the unique demands of GL Assessment papers and provide targeted preparation that maximises your daughter's potential.

Our comprehensive approach includes diagnostic assessment to identify strengths and areas for development, intensive practice with authentic GL Assessment-style questions, and strategic exam technique coaching. We focus particularly on the verbal and non-verbal reasoning skills that Newstead Wood prioritises, ensuring students approach the examination with confidence and competence.

Beyond academic preparation, our experienced team provides guidance throughout the entire application process, from registration deadlines to understanding scoring systems. We help families navigate the competitive landscape of grammar school admissions whilst maintaining a supportive, pressure-free environment that enables students to perform at their best.

With our proven track record of successful Newstead Wood placements, Taylor Tuition offers the expertise and personalised support necessary to transform 11+ preparation from a stressful challenge into an achievable goal.