The Stephen Perse Foundation: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

School Type: Independent day and boarding school
Ages: 1-18 years
Location: Cambridge, Madingley and Saffron Walden
Co-educational: Yes (boys joined Year 7 from 2017)
Founded: 1881
Notable Achievement: Sunday Times 'Independent Secondary School of the Decade' for East Anglia 2020
Application Deadline: Early registration recommended
Assessment Period: January of Year 6

About The Stephen Perse Foundation

The Stephen Perse Foundation represents one of Cambridge's most progressive educational institutions, with a remarkable heritage spanning over 140 years. Originally established in 1881 as the Perse School for Girls, the Foundation has evolved into a forward-thinking family of schools that embraces innovation whilst maintaining academic excellence.

The Foundation's transformation into a fully co-educational environment demonstrates its commitment to adapting to modern educational needs. This transition, completed when boys first joined Year 7 in 2017, has created a dynamic learning environment that benefits all pupils through diverse perspectives and collaborative learning.

What distinguishes The Stephen Perse Foundation is its exceptional International Baccalaureate programme, which achieved the remarkable feat of ranking first in Britain and joint first globally for IB diploma results in 2013. This achievement reflects the school's commitment to developing globally-minded students who think critically and approach challenges with creativity.

The Foundation's multi-site approach across Cambridge, Madingley and Saffron Walden allows for specialised facilities and age-appropriate environments. Each site is carefully designed to maximise learning opportunities whilst fostering the school's core values of intellectual curiosity, personal responsibility and social awareness.

The 11+ Assessment Process at The Stephen Perse Foundation

The Stephen Perse Foundation employs a comprehensive assessment process designed to identify pupils who will thrive within its innovative educational framework. The 11+ examinations take place during January of Year 6, allowing families adequate time for preparation and the school sufficient opportunity to evaluate each candidate thoroughly.

The assessment comprises four key components:

• English Paper: Evaluates reading comprehension skills and creative writing ability, focusing on analytical thinking and linguistic expression
• Mathematics Paper: Tests numerical reasoning, problem-solving capabilities and mathematical understanding appropriate to Year 6 level
• Verbal Reasoning: Assesses logical thinking, vocabulary knowledge and ability to identify patterns in language
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Evaluates spatial awareness, logical thinking and pattern recognition using visual puzzles

Following the written assessments, shortlisted candidates participate in individual interviews. These conversations allow the school to understand each child's personality, interests and potential contribution to the school community. The interview process is designed to be engaging rather than intimidating, helping pupils demonstrate their natural curiosity and enthusiasm for learning.

The Foundation seeks pupils who demonstrate not only academic potential but also creativity, resilience and a genuine love of learning. Merit-based scholarships and means-tested bursaries are available for exceptional candidates, ensuring that financial circumstances need not prevent access to this outstanding education.

How to Apply

Securing a place at The Stephen Perse Foundation requires careful planning and early action. The application process follows these essential steps:

Step 1: Registration
Submit the completed application form along with the registration fee. Early registration is strongly advised as places are limited and competition is considerable.

Step 2: School Visit
Arrange a visit to experience the school's atmosphere and facilities firsthand. These visits provide valuable insights into the school's culture and help families determine whether it aligns with their educational aspirations.

Step 3: Assessment Day
Your child will receive an invitation to attend the assessment day in January of Year 6. This includes all written examinations and preliminary interviews.

Step 4: Final Interview
Shortlisted candidates participate in more detailed interviews with senior staff members, allowing both school and family to ensure mutual compatibility.

Step 5: Offer Decision
Final decisions are communicated in February or March, providing families with sufficient time to make informed choices about their child's secondary education.

The Foundation offers both day and boarding options for senior school pupils, accommodating diverse family circumstances and preferences.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition's extensive experience with Stephen Perse Foundation admissions enables us to provide targeted preparation that maximises your child's potential for success. Our approach recognises that this school values creativity and independent thinking alongside academic achievement.

Our comprehensive preparation programme includes:

• Personalised Assessment Strategy: Detailed analysis of your child's strengths and areas for development, creating a tailored preparation plan
• Subject-Specific Tuition: Expert guidance in English, Mathematics, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning, focusing on the specific requirements of Stephen Perse assessments
• Creative Writing Excellence: Specialised coaching to develop the analytical and creative writing skills that Stephen Perse particularly values
• Interview Preparation: Comprehensive practice sessions that build confidence and help your child articulate their interests and aspirations effectively
• Mock Assessment Experience: Full practice examinations under timed conditions, familiarising your child with the assessment format and reducing anxiety

Our tutors understand Stephen Perse's educational philosophy and assessment criteria, ensuring that preparation aligns with the school's expectations. We focus on developing genuine understanding and thinking skills rather than rote learning, preparing students who will thrive in the Foundation's innovative environment.

Beyond academic preparation, we provide guidance on the application process, helping families navigate deadlines and requirements with confidence. Our support extends to post-assessment guidance, ensuring families are well-prepared for interviews and final decisions.

With Taylor Tuition's expert guidance, your child will approach Stephen Perse Foundation assessments with the knowledge, skills and confidence necessary for success in this exceptional educational environment.