Key Information Summary
- School Type: Independent day and boarding school for girls
- Age Range: 11-18 years
- Location: Winchester, Hampshire
- Entry Points: 11+ and 13+ (main entry at 13+)
- Assessment: ISEB Common Pre-test and school-specific assessments
- Registration Deadline: End of Year 6 for 13+ entry
- Registration Fee: £250 (non-refundable)
- Day Fees: £8,452 per term
- Boarding Fees: £14,217 per term
- Contact: 01962 835700
About St. Swithun's School
St. Swithun's School occupies a magnificent 45-acre campus in Winchester, Hampshire, providing an exceptional educational environment for girls aged 11-18. Founded on the core values of Caritas, Humilitas, Sinceritas (Kindness, Humility, Sincerity), the school has established itself as a leading independent institution that combines academic rigour with pastoral excellence.
The school's Winchester location offers unique advantages, situated in one of England's most historic cities with excellent transport links to London and the surrounding counties. This prestigious setting provides students with access to Winchester's rich cultural heritage whilst maintaining the close-knit community atmosphere that characterises St. Swithun's approach to education.
St. Swithun's offers both day and boarding options, allowing families flexibility in their educational choices. The school's commitment to developing confident, capable young women extends beyond academic achievement to encompass personal growth, leadership skills, and community engagement through an extensive programme of extracurricular activities.
The 11+ Assessment Process
Whilst St. Swithun's primary entry point is at 13+, the school does consider 11+ applications for exceptional candidates. The assessment process is designed to identify girls who will thrive in St. Swithun's academically challenging yet supportive environment.
Assessment Components
The school utilises the ISEB Common Pre-test as part of its assessment process, evaluating candidates across four key areas:
- Mathematics: Problem-solving skills and mathematical reasoning
- English: Reading comprehension, vocabulary, and written expression
- Verbal Reasoning: Logical thinking and language skills
- Non-Verbal Reasoning: Pattern recognition and spatial awareness
Beyond standardised testing, St. Swithun's places significant emphasis on school references and additional assessments that allow candidates to demonstrate their potential across the school's diverse curriculum, including modern foreign languages, sciences, computing, and creative subjects.
How to Apply
The application process for St. Swithun's School requires careful planning and attention to specific deadlines. For families considering 13+ entry, registration must be completed by the end of Year 6.
Application Steps
1. Registration: Complete the online registration form and submit the non-refundable fee of £250 by the specified deadline.
2. ISEB Pre-test: Your daughter will take the ISEB Common Pre-test during the Autumn Term of Year 7.
3. School Reference: A comprehensive reference from your child's current headteacher is required as part of the assessment process.
4. Additional Assessments: Successful candidates from the pre-test stage will be invited for further school-specific assessments during Year 8.
5. Final Decision: The school will communicate final admission decisions following completion of all assessment stages.
Financial Support
St. Swithun's offers scholarships and bursaries to support families who may require financial assistance. These awards recognise academic excellence, talent in specific areas, or provide means-tested support to ensure that a St. Swithun's education remains accessible to deserving candidates regardless of family circumstances.
How Taylor Tuition Can Help
Taylor Tuition's expertise in independent school admissions proves invaluable for families navigating St. Swithun's competitive application process. Our comprehensive support programme addresses every aspect of your daughter's preparation for this prestigious Hampshire school.
Specialist ISEB Pre-test Preparation
Our tutors provide targeted preparation for the ISEB Common Pre-test, ensuring your daughter approaches each component with confidence. We focus on developing the mathematical reasoning, English comprehension, and logical thinking skills that St. Swithun's values, whilst familiarising candidates with the test format and timing requirements.
School-Specific Preparation
Understanding St. Swithun's distinctive ethos and academic approach allows us to tailor preparation that aligns with the school's expectations. We help candidates demonstrate their potential across the school's broad curriculum whilst ensuring they can articulate their interest in St. Swithun's unique educational philosophy.
Application Strategy and Timeline Management
Our consultants guide families through St. Swithun's specific application requirements, ensuring all deadlines are met and documentation is optimally presented. We provide strategic advice on timing, particularly for families considering multiple school applications alongside St. Swithun's.
Interview and Assessment Preparation
For candidates progressing to St. Swithun's additional assessment stage, we provide specialised preparation that helps students showcase their academic curiosity and personal qualities that align with the school's values of Kindness, Humility, and Sincerity.
Contact Taylor Tuition today to discuss how our proven expertise can support your daughter's application to St. Swithun's School and maximise her chances of securing a place at this exceptional Winchester institution.
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