St. Edmund's College: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• Location: Ware, Hertfordshire
• School Type: Independent Catholic coeducational school
• Age Range: 3-18 years
• Founded: 1568 (England's oldest Catholic school)
• Campus: Historic 440-acre site
• Registration Fee: £150 (non-refundable)
• Acceptance Deposit: £1,500
• Assessment Areas: Mathematics, English, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning

About St. Edmund's College

St. Edmund's College holds the distinguished honour of being England's oldest Catholic school, with a remarkable heritage spanning over 450 years since its founding in 1568. Located on a magnificent 440-acre campus in Ware, Hertfordshire, the college provides a truly exceptional educational environment that combines historical significance with modern educational excellence.

The college's Catholic ethos permeates every aspect of school life, fostering not only academic achievement but also the development of strong moral values and social responsibility. Students benefit from a holistic education that emphasises service, leadership, and the realisation of each individual's God-given potential. The school's commitment to nurturing both intellectual curiosity and personal character makes it particularly appealing to families seeking an education grounded in traditional values whilst embracing contemporary teaching methods.

St. Edmund's College prides itself on creating confident, well-rounded individuals who are prepared for the challenges of higher education and beyond. The extensive campus facilities, combined with the school's rich traditions and forward-thinking approach, provide an ideal setting for students to flourish academically, socially, and spiritually.

The 11+ Assessment Process at St. Edmund's College

The 11+ assessment at St. Edmund's College is carefully designed to identify students who will thrive within the school's academic environment and benefit from its distinctive educational approach. The assessment process evaluates not only academic ability but also a student's potential to contribute positively to the college community.

Assessment Components

The entrance examination comprises three key areas:

• Mathematics: Students are assessed on problem-solving abilities, arithmetic skills, and mathematical reasoning. The examination tests both computational accuracy and the ability to apply mathematical concepts to real-world scenarios.
• English: This component evaluates reading comprehension, vocabulary knowledge, and written expression. Students demonstrate their ability to analyse texts, understand complex language, and communicate ideas clearly and effectively.
• Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning: These assessments measure logical thinking, pattern recognition, and problem-solving capabilities. They help identify students' potential for academic success across various subjects.

The assessment is designed to be accessible to well-prepared students whilst maintaining the academic standards expected at St. Edmund's College. The school seeks students who demonstrate not only academic ability but also the curiosity and determination necessary to excel in a challenging yet supportive environment.

How to Apply

The application process for St. Edmund's College is straightforward and designed to ensure a smooth transition for prospective families:

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Complete the Registration Form: Begin your application through the college's online admissions portal, providing comprehensive information about your child's educational background and interests.
2. Pay the Registration Fee: Submit the non-refundable registration fee of £150 to secure your child's place in the assessment process.
3. Submit Required Documentation: Provide previous school reports, any special educational needs documentation, and character references that demonstrate your child's academic progress and personal development.
4. Attend Assessment and Interview: Your child will be invited to participate in the entrance assessment and may attend an interview or assessment day to evaluate their suitability for the college community.
5. Secure Your Place: Upon receiving an offer of admission, an acceptance deposit of £1,500 is required to confirm your child's place at St. Edmund's College.

The admissions team at St. Edmund's College is committed to supporting families throughout the application process and encourages early engagement to ensure the best possible preparation for assessment.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition's expertise in independent school admissions makes us the ideal partner for families seeking entry to St. Edmund's College. Our comprehensive understanding of the school's assessment requirements and educational philosophy enables us to provide targeted preparation that maximises your child's chances of success.

Specialised St. Edmund's College Preparation

Our tutors are intimately familiar with St. Edmund's College's assessment format and academic expectations. We provide:

• Tailored Mathematics Preparation: Focused practice on problem-solving techniques and mathematical reasoning skills that align with the college's assessment standards.
• Advanced English Tuition: Development of reading comprehension abilities, vocabulary expansion, and written expression skills that demonstrate readiness for the college's rigorous English curriculum.
• Reasoning Skills Development: Comprehensive training in verbal and non-verbal reasoning techniques, ensuring students approach these assessments with confidence and strategic thinking.
• Interview Preparation: Guidance on presenting oneself effectively during the assessment process, helping students articulate their interests and demonstrate their fit with St. Edmund's College values.

Our proven track record of successful placements at prestigious independent schools, combined with our understanding of St. Edmund's College's unique character and requirements, ensures that your child receives the most effective preparation possible. We work closely with families to develop personalised learning strategies that not only prepare students for the entrance assessment but also lay the foundation for future academic success at this exceptional institution.