Redmaids' High School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• Location: Westbury Road, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol, BS9 3AW
• Type: Independent day school for girls
• Age Range: 11-18 years
• Students: Approximately 785
• Head: Mr Paul Dwyer
• Fees: £6,085 per term
• Affiliations: Girls' Schools Association (GSA), Headmasters' and Headmistresses' Conference (HMC)

About Redmaids' High School

Founded in 1634, Redmaids' High School represents one of England's oldest educational institutions for girls. Located in the leafy suburb of Westbury-on-Trym in Bristol, this distinguished independent day school emerged from the merger of The Red Maids' School and Redland High School for Girls, combining centuries of educational excellence into a single, dynamic institution.

The school's single-sex environment is carefully designed to empower young women to excel academically whilst developing confidence and leadership skills. With approximately 785 students across Years 7-13, Redmaids' maintains an intimate community atmosphere where each girl receives personalised attention and support.

The campus features modern teaching facilities alongside historic buildings, including specialist science laboratories, a dedicated music block, extensive sports facilities, and beautifully maintained grounds. The school's commitment to holistic education is evident in its comprehensive extracurricular programme, which encompasses everything from competitive sports to creative arts and community service projects.

Redmaids' academic programme emphasises rigorous scholarship combined with innovative teaching methods. The school's ethos centres on nurturing intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and independence of mind - qualities that prepare students for success at leading universities and in their future careers.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Redmaids' High School employs a comprehensive 11+ assessment designed to identify girls who will thrive in their academically challenging environment. The examination process typically takes place in the autumn term for entry the following September.

Assessment Components:

• Mathematics: Problem-solving abilities, numerical reasoning, and mathematical understanding appropriate to Year 6 level
• English: Reading comprehension, creative writing, and language skills assessment
• Verbal Reasoning: Logical thinking and ability to analyse written information
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Pattern recognition and spatial awareness using visual puzzles

The assessment is designed to evaluate not merely academic knowledge but also potential for growth within Redmaids' educational framework. The school seeks students who demonstrate intellectual curiosity, resilience, and the ability to contribute positively to their school community.

Selected candidates may also participate in an informal interview process, allowing the admissions team to assess how well each prospective student might flourish in the school's supportive yet challenging environment.

How to Apply

Application Timeline:

• September-October: Submit application form and registration fee
• November: 11+ assessment takes place
• December: Interviews for selected candidates
• January: Offers made for September entry

Application Process:

• Complete the online application form through the school's website
• Submit required documentation including current school reports
• Pay the registration fee
• Attend the 11+ assessment on the designated date
• Participate in interview if selected

Financial Support:
Redmaids' High School offers various scholarships recognising academic excellence, musical talent, and sporting achievement. Additionally, means-tested bursaries are available to support families who would benefit from financial assistance, ensuring that talent and potential remain the primary criteria for admission.

Prospective families are strongly encouraged to attend one of the school's open events or arrange an individual visit to experience the warm, supportive atmosphere that defines the Redmaids' community.

Preparing for the Redmaids' High School 11+ with Taylor Tuition

Preparation for the Redmaids' High School 11+ tends to go best when it starts early and stays steady, and most families who work with us begin between twelve and eighteen months out. Our tutors, who have prepared pupils for entry to leading independent and grammar schools including Westminster, St Paul's, Wycombe Abbey and Eton, plan the work backwards from the school's own assessment format and registration deadline.

The tutors we match to 11+ preparation are drawn from a pool in which more than half hold Qualified Teacher Status, around three in five hold a master's degree or doctorate, and which includes former heads of department, exam-board examiners and teachers from independent and boarding schools. Every tutor who works with children holds an enhanced DBS check.

Families in Bristol and Bath 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.