Godolphin and Latymer School 11+ Preparation

Godolphin and Latymer School is one of the most sought-after independent girls' schools in Hammersmith, West London. Places are competitive and the 11+ examination — English and mathematics papers taken in January of Year 6, followed by an interview — requires thorough, structured preparation that goes well beyond standard primary school curriculum work.

About Godolphin and Latymer School

About Godolphin & Latymer School

Godolphin & Latymer School (G&L) is a highly selective independent girls' school in Hammersmith, West London. One of the most academically outstanding girls' schools in the country, G&L has an exceptional record of university placements including Oxford, Cambridge, and leading London universities. The school attracts applications from across London and the Home Counties, and competition for places at 11+ is intense.

The Godolphin & Latymer 11+ Entrance Exam

The G&L entrance examination takes place in January of Year 6 for September Year 7 entry. The exam includes English (comprehension and writing) and mathematics. Candidates who perform strongly in the written exam are invited for an interview. The school is highly selective and preparation must be thorough — girls applying from competitive independent junior schools form a large part of the applicant pool.

What Does Godolphin & Latymer Look For?

G&L looks for girls who are academically able across all subjects and who demonstrate intellectual curiosity and a love of learning. In the English paper, sophisticated vocabulary and structured argument are rewarded. The maths paper includes problem-solving questions that go beyond the standard Year 5 curriculum. At interview, girls are expected to discuss ideas with confidence and show genuine engagement with topics beyond the classroom.

Preparing for Godolphin & Latymer

Given the school's selectivity, preparation for G&L typically needs to begin in Year 4 or early Year 5. Girls will need to read widely to build vocabulary and develop the ability to discuss books and ideas at interview. Maths preparation should include challenge-level problem solving. Many successful applicants also sit exams for other highly selective schools — preparation for G&L transfers well to schools like LEH, St Paul's Girls', and South Hampstead High.

The 11+ Examination

Godolphin and Latymer School uses the Godolphin & Latymer's own entrance examination for its 11+ assessments. English and mathematics papers taken in January of Year 6, followed by an interview Understanding the specific format and question types for this exam — and practising under timed conditions — is the most important thing a child can do to maximise their performance on the day.

How Leading Tuition Prepares Students

Our 11+ tutors have experience preparing children for Godolphin and Latymer School and similar selective schools across the area. We begin with a diagnostic assessment to identify your child's strengths and the areas where targeted work will have the greatest impact. Sessions cover all components of the entrance exam, with increasing focus on timed practice as the exam date approaches.

We tailor preparation to your child's year group and the time available. Whether you are starting 12–18 months ahead or beginning six months before the exam, we build a structured plan that builds confidence alongside academic skill. Internal links for parents considering related schools: all 11+ school guides, our 11+ tuition service.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Godolphin & Latymer 11+ entrance exam?

The G&L entrance examination takes place in January of Year 6 for September Year 7 entry. Registration opens in the autumn term of Year 5, and the school has a registration deadline. Families should apply early as the process is highly competitive.

How selective is Godolphin & Latymer?

Godolphin & Latymer is one of the most selective independent girls' schools in London. The school receives several applications per available place, and successful candidates typically perform exceptionally well across both the written exam and interview. Starting preparation early is strongly advised.

What is the interview like at Godolphin & Latymer?

Girls who perform well in the written exam are invited for an interview. The interview assesses intellectual curiosity and the ability to engage with ideas, rather than rehearsed answers. Girls should be able to discuss books they have read, current affairs, and their interests with genuine enthusiasm.

How can Leading Tuition help with Godolphin & Latymer preparation?

Our specialist tutors have experience preparing girls for highly selective London schools including Godolphin & Latymer. We cover the full admissions process: English and maths exam preparation, challenge-level problem solving, and interview technique. Book a free consultation to discuss preparation for your daughter.