The Harrodian School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• Location: Barnes, South West London
• Age Range: 4-18 (Co-educational)
• School Type: Independent Day School
• Campus: 25-acre riverside estate
• Student Numbers: Approximately 1,038 pupils
• Entry Points: 11+ for Year 7 admission
• Assessment: Mathematics, English, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning

About The Harrodian School

The Harrodian School occupies a truly exceptional position in London's independent education sector, nestled on a magnificent 25-acre riverside estate in Barnes. Founded in 1993, this co-educational day school has rapidly established itself as a distinctive educational choice for families seeking academic excellence within a nurturing community environment.

The school's unique campus setting provides an almost countryside atmosphere whilst remaining easily accessible from central London. The estate features purpose-built facilities alongside beautifully maintained grounds that include sports fields, gardens, and riverside access. This remarkable environment allows pupils to benefit from both urban educational opportunities and the tranquillity of green space.

With approximately 1,038 pupils across its three divisions - Pre-Prep, Prep, and Senior School with Sixth Form - The Harrodian maintains an intimate community feel despite its substantial size. The school prides itself on fostering individual potential whilst building strong relationships between pupils, staff, and families. This approach creates an environment where academic achievement flourishes alongside personal development and creative expression.

Fees and key dates for 2026/27

The Harrodian School publishes day fees of £8,183 per term for 2026/27, and the figures above come from the school's own fees page as checked in September 2026. Registration for the next 11+ round closes on Wednesday 21 October 2026 (registration form + fee, for Sept 2027 Year 7 entry). Assessment dates: ISEB assessments to be completed by Wednesday 2 December 2026 (in-house sitting Saturday 21 November 2026 for non-ISEB schools); interviews Saturday 23 January 2027. ISEB Common Pre-Test: four adaptive computer-based assessments (Maths, English, Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning), followed by an in-person interview for shortlisted candidates. Fees and dates change each year, so the school's website remains the reference for the current round.

The 11+ Assessment Process

The Harrodian School's 11+ assessment is designed to identify pupils who will thrive in the school's distinctive academic environment. The process evaluates both intellectual capability and potential for growth within the school's supportive community.

Assessment Components:

• Mathematics: Focus on problem-solving abilities, numerical reasoning, and mathematical thinking beyond mere computation
• English: Comprehensive evaluation of reading comprehension, written expression, and language skills
• Verbal Reasoning: Assessment of logical thinking, vocabulary understanding, and linguistic problem-solving
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Evaluation of spatial awareness, pattern recognition, and visual processing skills

The assessment day typically includes these formal tests alongside opportunities for pupils to demonstrate their personalities and interests. The school values well-rounded individuals who will contribute positively to the school community, not merely high academic achievers.

How to Apply

Applications for Year 7 entry at The Harrodian School must be submitted through the school's online application system, accessible via their official website. The admissions process follows a structured timeline that families should carefully observe.

Application Timeline:

• Registration typically opens in the spring term for entry the following September
• Completed applications with supporting documentation must be submitted by the specified deadline
• Assessment days are scheduled during the autumn term preceding entry
• Offers are communicated in early spring

Required Documentation:

• Completed online application form
• School reports from the current school
• Reference from the current headteacher
• Birth certificate copy

Given the school's popularity and selective nature, early registration is strongly advised. The admissions team is available to answer questions and provide guidance throughout the process.

Preparing for the The Harrodian School 11+ with Taylor Tuition

The The Harrodian School 11+ rewards steady preparation over a year or so, with the last term given to timed practice and interview confidence. Having prepared pupils for entry to leading independent and grammar schools, with placements including Westminster, St Paul's, Wycombe Abbey and Eton, our tutors match the programme to the school's assessment format and to where the child is starting from.

Because the pool includes former heads of department, exam-board examiners and teachers from independent and boarding schools, and more than half of our tutors hold Qualified Teacher Status, families get a tutor who understands what the assessors are looking for. Every tutor who works with children holds an enhanced DBS check.

Families work with us online from anywhere in the UK or abroad, 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.