Norwich High School for Girls: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Type: Independent day school for girls
• Age Range: 3-18 years
• Location: 95 Newmarket Road, Norwich NR2 2HU
• Founded: 1875
• Trust: Girls' Day School Trust (GDST)
• Pupil Numbers: Approximately 580
• Entry Points: Reception, Year 3, Year 7, Sixth Form
• 11+ Assessment: Mathematics, English, Verbal Reasoning

About Norwich High School for Girls

Norwich High School for Girls has been nurturing confident, curious young women for nearly 150 years. As part of the prestigious Girls' Day School Trust, the school combines traditional academic rigour with innovative teaching methods, creating an environment where girls can excel without the distractions often found in co-educational settings.

Located in the heart of Norwich, the school benefits from its position in one of England's most historic cities whilst maintaining excellent transport links across Norfolk. The school's philosophy centres on developing independent thinkers who are prepared to lead in an increasingly complex world.

Academic results consistently place Norwich High amongst the top-performing schools in East Anglia, with pupils regularly gaining places at Russell Group universities including Oxford and Cambridge. The school's approach emphasises not just academic achievement but also character development, ensuring pupils leave as well-rounded individuals ready for future challenges.

Facilities include purpose-built science laboratories, a performing arts centre, sports hall with indoor swimming pool, and extensive playing fields. The school's commitment to co-curricular activities means pupils can explore interests ranging from debating and Model United Nations to lacrosse and sailing.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Norwich High School for Girls operates a selective admissions process for Year 7 entry, designed to identify pupils who will thrive in the school's academically challenging environment. The assessment takes place in January for September entry, allowing families sufficient time to prepare.

Assessment Components

Mathematics Paper: Covers numerical reasoning, problem-solving, and mathematical concepts appropriate to Year 6 level. Pupils are assessed on their ability to apply mathematical knowledge creatively rather than simply recall facts.

English Paper: Includes reading comprehension, creative writing, and language skills. The school looks for pupils who can express themselves clearly and demonstrate a genuine love of literature and language.

Verbal Reasoning: Tests logical thinking, pattern recognition, and the ability to work with unfamiliar concepts. This component helps identify pupils with strong analytical skills who will benefit from the school's challenging curriculum.

Interview Process

Shortlisted candidates attend an informal interview with senior staff, focusing on the pupil's interests, motivations, and potential contribution to school life. The school values intellectual curiosity and looks for pupils who will embrace the collaborative, supportive atmosphere that characterises Norwich High.

How to Apply

Applications for Year 7 entry should be submitted by early November for assessment the following January. The school welcomes applications from pupils currently in state or independent schools, with many successful candidates joining from local primary schools across Norfolk and Suffolk.

Application Timeline

• September: Open events and school visits available
• Early November: Application deadline
• December: Assessment invitations sent
• January: Assessment day and interviews
• February: Offers communicated to families
• March: Acceptance deadline

Families are strongly encouraged to attend an open event or arrange a private visit before applying. This provides valuable insight into the school's ethos and allows pupils to experience the welcoming atmosphere that makes Norwich High special.

The school considers each application holistically, taking into account academic potential, character, and the ability to contribute positively to the school community. Previous academic reports and a reference from the current head teacher form part of the assessment process.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Our expert tutors understand exactly what Norwich High School for Girls seeks in prospective pupils. We provide comprehensive preparation that goes beyond simply practising past papers, developing the critical thinking and analytical skills that the school values.

Our Norwich High preparation programme includes targeted practice in mathematics problem-solving, advanced comprehension techniques, and verbal reasoning strategies. We help pupils develop the confidence to articulate their thoughts clearly during interviews, ensuring they can demonstrate their intellectual curiosity and enthusiasm for learning.

Working with families across Norfolk and beyond, we understand the local educational landscape and can provide specific guidance on how Norwich High's requirements differ from other independent schools. Our tutors are familiar with the school's values and assessment style, enabling us to provide preparation that truly aligns with what admissions staff are seeking.

Many of our pupils have successfully gained places at Norwich High, going on to achieve excellent academic results and secure places at top universities. We support families throughout the entire admissions process, from initial preparation through to accepting offers and preparing for the transition to secondary school.

For families considering Norwich High School for Girls, Taylor Tuition offers the expertise and personalised support needed to maximise your daughter's chances of success whilst ensuring she develops genuine skills for lifelong learning.