Our Lady's Abingdon School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

School Type: Independent Catholic co-educational day school
Age Range: 7-18 years
Location: Radley Road, Abingdon, Oxfordshire OX14 3PS
Headteacher: Mr Daniel Gibbons
Current Roll: Approximately 387 students
Term Fees: £4,145 to £6,175
Founded: 1860 by the Sisters of Mercy
Religious Character: Roman Catholic
Entry Points: Year 3, Year 7, Sixth Form

About Our Lady's Abingdon School

Our Lady's Abingdon School has provided exceptional Catholic education in Oxfordshire for over 160 years. Located in the historic market town of Abingdon-on-Thames, this independent co-educational school combines academic rigour with the nurturing values of its Catholic foundation.

The school's distinctive character stems from its commitment to developing the whole child within a supportive community environment. With small class sizes ensuring personalised attention, students benefit from dedicated teaching that recognises individual strengths and learning styles. The school's Catholic ethos permeates all aspects of school life, fostering values of compassion, respect, and service to others.

Our Lady's Abingdon offers a broad and balanced curriculum from Year 3 through to A-levels, with particular strengths in the sciences, humanities, and creative arts. The school's commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its strong examination results and university destinations, whilst maintaining its focus on character development and spiritual growth.

The school's facilities include modern science laboratories, well-equipped classrooms, a library, sports facilities, and dedicated spaces for the arts. Students participate in an extensive programme of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and various clubs and societies that enrich their educational experience.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Our Lady's Abingdon School employs a comprehensive assessment process for Year 7 entry, designed to identify students who will thrive in the school's academic environment and contribute positively to its community.

The entrance assessment typically covers:

• English: Reading comprehension, creative writing, and language skills assessment
• Mathematics: Problem-solving, arithmetic, and mathematical reasoning
• Verbal Reasoning: Language-based logical thinking and vocabulary
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Spatial awareness and pattern recognition

In addition to the written assessments, candidates attend an individual interview with senior staff members. This interview allows the school to assess each child's character, interests, and potential contribution to the school community. The interview also provides an opportunity for students to ask questions about the school and demonstrate their enthusiasm for joining Our Lady's Abingdon.

The school seeks students who will benefit from its Catholic education and contribute to its inclusive, supportive community. Academic potential is important, but the school also values qualities such as curiosity, resilience, and kindness.

How to Apply

The application process for Year 7 entry at Our Lady's Abingdon School follows a structured timeline:

Application Timeline:

• September: Applications open for the following year's entry
• November: Application deadline
• January: Entrance assessments and interviews conducted
• February: Offer letters sent to successful candidates
• March: Acceptance deadline for offered places

Application Requirements:

• Completed application form (available on the school website)
• Recent school report
• Reference from current headteacher
• Registration fee

The school welcomes prospective families to attend open events and individual tours throughout the year. These visits provide valuable opportunities to experience the school's atmosphere, meet staff and students, and ask detailed questions about the education and opportunities available.

For families requiring financial assistance, means-tested bursaries are available and should be applied for alongside the main application. The school is committed to ensuring that a Catholic education at Our Lady's Abingdon remains accessible to families from various financial backgrounds.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition's expertise in independent school admissions makes us the ideal partner for families seeking entry to Our Lady's Abingdon School. Our comprehensive preparation programme addresses every aspect of the application process.

Entrance Assessment Preparation:

• Personalised tutoring in English, Mathematics, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning
• Practise papers modelled on Our Lady's Abingdon's assessment style
• Targeted skill development in areas requiring improvement
• Regular progress monitoring and strategy adjustments

Interview Coaching:

• Mock interview sessions with experienced tutors
• Confidence-building techniques and communication skills development
• Guidance on discussing interests, achievements, and aspirations
• Preparation for questions specific to Catholic education and values

Application Support:

• Strategic advice on application timing and school selection
• Assistance with personal statements and supporting documentation
• Guidance on school visits and open day preparation
• Ongoing support throughout the entire admissions process

Our tutors understand Our Lady's Abingdon's distinctive character and admissions criteria, ensuring that preparation is precisely tailored to maximise each student's chances of success. We work closely with families to develop confidence, academic skills, and the personal qualities that Our Lady's Abingdon values.

With our proven track record of successful placements at top independent schools, Taylor Tuition provides the expert guidance and personalised support needed to secure a place at this exceptional Catholic school.