Norwich School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Type: Independent co-educational day school
• Age Range: 4-18 years (Lower School 4-11, Senior School 11-18)
• Location: Cathedral Close, Norwich, Norfolk
• Founded: 1096 (one of England's oldest schools)
• Pupils: Approximately 1,020 students
• Entry Points: Multiple, with main 11+ entry to Year 7
• Assessment: Entrance examinations in English and Mathematics
• Application Deadline: Early December for September entry
• Contact: +44 1603 728430

About Norwich School

Norwich School occupies a truly unique position in British independent education, nestled within the historic Cathedral Close in the heart of Norwich. With nearly a millennium of educational excellence behind it, the school represents one of England's most venerable institutions, tracing its origins to 1096 when it was established as an episcopal grammar school.

The school's transformation into a modern co-educational environment occurred in 2010, blending centuries of tradition with contemporary educational approaches. This historic setting provides students with an inspiring backdrop for learning, surrounded by medieval architecture and the magnificent Norwich Cathedral.

Norwich School's academic programme is characterised by rigorous scholarship and intellectual curiosity. The school consistently achieves outstanding results, with pupils regularly securing places at leading universities including Oxford and Cambridge. The curriculum balances traditional academic subjects with innovative programmes, ensuring students develop both depth of knowledge and breadth of understanding.

The school's commitment to nurturing individual potential is evident in its diverse co-curricular offerings. From drama productions performed in professional venues to competitive sports teams and extensive music programmes, Norwich School provides numerous opportunities for students to discover and develop their talents beyond the classroom.

Fees and key dates for 2026/27

Norwich School publishes day fees of £8,406 per term for 2026/27, 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. Digital assessment, short written assessment, group-based activities and an individual conversation with a member of teaching staff, alongside a school reference and co-curricular form. Fees and dates change each year, so the school's website remains the reference for the current round.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Norwich School's 11+ entrance assessment is designed to identify students who will thrive in the school's academically rigorous environment. The process typically takes place in January and consists of examinations in core subjects that form the foundation of secondary education.

English Assessment: The English paper evaluates reading comprehension, creative writing abilities, and command of grammar and punctuation. Students encounter various text types and are expected to demonstrate sophisticated analytical thinking and clear written expression.

Mathematics Assessment: The mathematics examination tests problem-solving skills, numerical reasoning, and mathematical concepts appropriate to Year 6 level. Students must show their working clearly and demonstrate logical thinking processes.

The school seeks students who display intellectual curiosity, resilience, and the potential to contribute positively to the school community. Academic ability is paramount, but the school also values students who show enthusiasm for learning and demonstrate good character.

Candidates who perform well in the written assessments may be invited for an interview, providing an opportunity for the school to assess personal qualities and for families to ask questions about school life.

How to Apply

The application process for Norwich School's 11+ entry begins well in advance of the intended start date:

Registration: Complete the online registration form available on the school's website. Early registration is advisable as examination places are allocated on a first-come basis.

Documentation: Submit your child's most recent school report, along with any relevant additional information about their academic achievements or special circumstances.

Entrance Examinations: Attend the scheduled assessment day in January. Students should arrive well-rested and prepared, bringing necessary stationery and following the school's guidelines.

Results and Offers: The school notifies families of outcomes shortly after the assessment process concludes. Successful candidates receive conditional offers based on continued academic progress.

Acceptance: Families must confirm acceptance of places by the specified deadline, typically accompanied by the required deposit.

The admissions team at Norwich School is available to answer questions throughout the process and provides guidance to prospective families.

Preparing for the Norwich School 11+ with Taylor Tuition

Families preparing for the Norwich School 11+ usually come to us a year or so before the assessment, though shorter runs work where the foundations are already sound. Having prepared pupils for entry to leading independent and grammar schools, with placements including Westminster, St Paul's, Wycombe Abbey and Eton, our tutors build each programme around the format the school actually uses, whether a written paper, an online pre-test, an interview or a combination of them.

More than half of our tutors hold Qualified Teacher Status and around three in five hold a master's degree or doctorate, and the pool includes former heads of department, exam-board examiners and teachers from independent and boarding schools, so the preparation is led by people who know how selective schools assess. Every tutor who works with children holds an enhanced DBS check.

Families in the East of England 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.