South Hampstead High School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• Location: 3 Maresfield Gardens, Hampstead, North West London NW3 5SS
• School Type: Independent day school for girls aged 4-18
• Founded: 1876 as part of the Girls' Day School Trust (GDST)
• Number of Pupils: Approximately 950
• Entry Points: 4+, 11+, 16+
• Fees (2024/25): Junior School £6,665 per term, Senior School £8,158 per term
• Contact: +44 20 7435 2899

About South Hampstead High School

South Hampstead High School has been nurturing young women's minds for nearly 150 years from its beautiful Hampstead location. As one of the founding schools of the Girls' Day School Trust, it embodies the progressive educational values established in the Victorian era whilst embracing modern teaching methods and technologies.

The school's motto "Mehr Licht" (More Light) perfectly captures its commitment to intellectual curiosity and enlightenment. Set across multiple buildings in the heart of Hampstead, the school benefits from its proximity to London's cultural institutions whilst maintaining a village-like community atmosphere that families particularly value.

South Hampstead is renowned for its strong academic outcomes, with pupils consistently achieving excellent GCSE and A-level results. The school's curriculum emphasises critical thinking and creativity, preparing girls for leading universities including Oxford and Cambridge. Beyond academics, the school offers extensive co-curricular opportunities including drama, music, sport, and community service programmes.

The school culture promotes confidence, independence, and social responsibility. Girls are encouraged to voice their opinions, take on leadership roles, and develop a global perspective through international exchanges and partnerships.

The 11+ Assessment Process

South Hampstead High School's 11+ entrance process is designed to identify girls who will thrive in its academically rigorous environment. The assessment takes place in January for September entry and consists of multiple components.

Written Examinations:

• English paper focusing on comprehension, creative writing, and language skills
• Mathematics paper testing problem-solving abilities and numerical reasoning
• Both papers are designed to assess potential rather than rote learning

Interview Process:

Successful candidates from the written stage are invited for an individual interview with senior staff members. The interview explores the candidate's interests, motivations, and alignment with the school's values. Girls are encouraged to discuss their hobbies, favourite subjects, and aspirations in a relaxed, conversational setting.

Assessment Criteria:

The school looks for academic potential, intellectual curiosity, and personal qualities that align with its community values. Previous school reports and teacher references are also considered as part of the holistic assessment process.

How to Apply

Application Timeline:

• September-October: Register for open events and submit application form
• November: Application deadline (typically mid-November)
• January: Entrance examinations and interviews
• February: Offers made
• March: Acceptance deadline

Application Requirements:

• Completed application form via the school's online portal
• Current school report
• Application fee
• Registration for entrance examinations

Open Events:

The school hosts several open mornings throughout the autumn term, allowing prospective families to tour the facilities, meet staff and pupils, and experience the school's atmosphere. These events typically include presentations from the Head and senior staff, subject department visits, and opportunities to ask questions.

Financial Support:

South Hampstead offers means-tested bursaries providing up to 100% fee remission for families who meet the criteria. Academic scholarships are also available, recognising exceptional ability and potential. The school is committed to ensuring that financial circumstances do not prevent access to its education.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition's comprehensive support programme for South Hampstead High School admissions draws upon our deep understanding of the school's specific requirements and assessment style. Our experienced tutors, many of whom are familiar with GDST schools, provide targeted preparation that goes beyond generic 11+ coaching.

Personalised Assessment Preparation:

We begin with a thorough assessment of your daughter's current abilities and learning style, then create a bespoke programme addressing her specific needs. Our English specialists focus on developing the analytical and creative writing skills that South Hampstead particularly values, whilst our mathematics tutors ensure strong problem-solving foundations.

Interview Excellence Training:

Our unique interview preparation programme helps girls develop confidence in articulating their thoughts and interests. We conduct practice interviews that mirror South Hampstead's approach, helping candidates present their authentic selves whilst demonstrating intellectual curiosity and maturity.

Strategic Application Guidance:

Our admissions experts provide comprehensive support throughout the application process, from completing forms to preparing for assessment day. We help families understand the school's values and culture, ensuring applications authentically reflect why South Hampstead is the right fit.

Ongoing Academic Development:

Beyond entrance preparation, we offer continued academic support to ensure successful transition into South Hampstead's demanding curriculum. Our tutors maintain relationships with many independent schools, providing insights that benefit our students throughout their educational journey.

With Taylor Tuition's expert guidance, your daughter will approach the South Hampstead admissions process with confidence, well-prepared to demonstrate her academic potential and personal qualities that align with this exceptional school's values.