At The Happy Scholar, we are proud to have a very successful team of school entrances tutors who have helped students achieve success in gaining admission to Whitgift School with many scholarships. We know the school very well and understand that they are seeking academically strong, well-rounded students who are motivated, curious, and ready to excel in an intellectually challenging environment

Whitgift School: Overview

Whitgift School, established in 1596, is a leading independent school located in Croydon, South London. It provides an exceptional education for boys aged 10 to 18 and has a strong tradition of academic excellence and personal development. Whitgift is well-known for its diverse extracurricular programme that includes sports, music, drama, and arts. It strives to nurture talents beyond the classroom and provides opportunities for students to excel in various activities, whether it be through its competitive sports teams, music ensembles, or drama productions. 

Academic Achievements:

Whitgift’s academic achievements in 2024 included:

• A-Level Results: More than 70% of students attained A* or A grades, underscoring Whitgift’s position as one of the top-performing schools in the country.
• GCSE Results: A significant proportion of students received grades 8 or 9, showcasing their strong academic foundation and readiness for further studies.

11 Plus Entry to Whitgift School: Essential Details

Whitgift School’s 11 Plus entrance is highly competitive, and the process is designed to identify students who excel academically and possess a strong character.

Admissions Overview:

• Entry Points: The main entry point is at 11+, although places are also available at 13+ and 16+.
• Exams and Interviews: The 11+ entry process includes entrance exams, academic records, and interviews.
• Vacancies: While occasional openings may occur in other year groups, these are typically announced with short notice.

Open Days at Whitgift School:

Attending an Open Day is an excellent way for prospective students and their families to explore Whitgift’s facilities, meet staff, and learn more about the school’s ethos and offerings. Open Days are usually held in the autumn and spring terms and often involve guided tours, presentations, and the opportunity to speak with current students and teachers. It is recommended to book early due to the high demand for places.

What to Expect in the 11 Plus Exam at Whitgift School:

Whitgift’s 11 Plus entrance exam is designed to evaluate a candidate’s academic potential and suitability for the school’s rigorous academic programme.

Entrance Exam Overview:

• CEM Computer Test (Stage 1): This is a timed, on-screen test that assesses cognitive ability, including verbal, non-verbal, and numerical reasoning. This stage helps identify students for further examination.
• Written Papers (Stage 2): Candidates will take additional written papers in English and Mathematics to test their knowledge and analytical skills. The English paper includes reading comprehension, analysis, and imaginative writing, while the Mathematics paper covers problem-solving and mathematical reasoning. Candidates must show all working steps in the mathematics paper to receive full marks.
• Interview: Shortlisted candidates are invited to an interview with a senior member of staff, which provides an opportunity for the school to assess the candidate’s intellectual curiosity, independent thought, and overall character. The interview usually lasts about 30 minutes and helps the school understand the student’s interests and potential.

Preparing for Whitgift School 11 Plus Entrance Exams:

Effective preparation is key to excelling in the competitive entrance exams at Whitgift. Here are strategies to help parents support their child:

Focus on Reasoning Skills:

Practice with dedicated verbal, non-verbal, and numerical reasoning books and resources. Timed exercises can help build familiarity with the exam format and develop speed and accuracy.

Strengthen Writing Skills:

Encourage regular reading of high-quality literature to develop comprehension and critical thinking. Practice creative writing tasks, focusing on clear structure, varied sentence forms, and effective use of language to prepare for the imaginative writing section.

Develop Math Skills:

Ensure that your child is proficient in the Key Stage 2 mathematics curriculum and can tackle multi-step problems. Emphasise the importance of showing all working steps for full marks. Regular practice under timed conditions will help build speed and confidence.

Interview Preparation:

Help your child practice answering questions thoughtfully and articulately. Encourage them to express their opinions and show independent thinking and genuine interest in topics of discussion.

Additional Preparation Strategies:

Create a balanced study plan that includes time for English, Mathematics, and reasoning practice. Focus on the areas where your child needs the most support and maintain consistent practice to avoid last-minute stress. Engage in activities such as book clubs, debates, and writing workshops to further develop analytical and communication skills.

Balancing Study and Preparation:

Maintain a study schedule that allocates time for each subject and ensures regular practice. Consistent preparation helps build long-term retention and reduces exam-day anxiety. A structured approach, combined with dedication, will ensure your child feels confident and prepared.

For more information about Whitgift School, visit – www.whitgift.co.uk.

For expert guidance and tailored preparation tips for the Whitgift 11 Plus entrance exam, contact us to learn more about our specialised tutoring services.