Tormead School is an independent, selective day school for girls with over 750 pupils between the ages of 4 and 18. Major points of entry are at the ages of 4, 7, 11 and in the Sixth Form. Priority is given to Tormead’s own Junior department pupils in the allocation of senior school places at 11+. Places occasionally become available in other year groups and we are pleased to consider applications at any stage. We aim to offer places to sisters of current pupils wherever possible, but are looking above all for potential and for girls who will thrive and be happy in the stimulating environment offered by the school.

An offer of a place is based on the results of the tests and/or interviews as detailed below and a reference from the pupil’s current school if applicable.

Entry Procedures

Junior Department

• Entry at 4+
Candidates are informally assessed by age group specialists during a morning or afternoon visit to the school.

• Entry at 7+
At this stage the classes increase in number from one to two and entry is by English, Mathematics and Reasoning tests. Candidates are interviewed by age group specialists and the Head of the Junior Department.

Senior School

• Entry at 11+
At this stage the classes increase from two to four. It is usual for Junior Department pupils to transfer to the senior school unless there are concerns about progress. In such cases, discussions will have taken place with parents, enabling them to make alternative arrangements for their daughter’s secondary education.

Candidates sit entrance tests comprising English, Mathematics and Reasoning papers. Candidates are not usually interviewed but references and/or reports are obtained from each girl’s current school. Candidates for Academic, Music or Art Scholarships are invited back for interviews and practical tests where appropriate. Bursaries are available in the Senior School and are dependent on the level of parental income.

• Entry to the Sixth Form
Entrants are normally expected to have a minimum of nine good GCSEs with at least grade B in those subjects to be studied at AS level.

A number of scholarships are offered for entry to the Sixth Form. These are awarded on merit and are open to both internal and external candidates.