Surbiton High School 11+ Preparation

Surbiton High School is one of the most sought-after independent co-educational schools in Surbiton, Kingston upon Thames. Places are competitive and the 11+ examination — English, mathematics, and verbal reasoning papers taken in January of Year 6 — requires thorough, structured preparation that goes well beyond standard primary school curriculum work.

About Surbiton High School

About Surbiton High School

Surbiton High School is a co-educational independent school in Surbiton, Kingston upon Thames, and part of the United Learning group. The school has a strong academic record and a broad co-curricular programme. Girls and boys are taught separately in the junior school, with full co-education from Year 9 onwards. Entry at 11+ is competitive, with the school using its own entrance examination.

The Surbiton High 11+ Entrance Exam

Surbiton High's Year 7 entrance examination takes place in January of Year 6. The exam covers English (reading comprehension and creative writing) and mathematics. In addition, girls sit a verbal reasoning paper. Successful candidates in the written exams may be invited for an interview. The school offers a range of scholarships at 11+ including academic, music, and sport.

What Does Surbiton High Look For?

Surbiton High is looking for able, motivated pupils who will thrive in an academic environment. Strong performance across English, maths, and verbal reasoning is required. In the English paper, creativity and clarity of expression are particularly valued. Girls who apply from independent junior schools are typically well-prepared, so state school applicants benefit from early structured preparation.

Preparing for Surbiton High School

We recommend beginning dedicated preparation in Year 4 or Year 5. Key areas to cover include verbal reasoning (which many state school curricula do not teach), English comprehension and extended writing, and mathematical problem-solving. Scholarship applicants should aim for particularly strong performance and may benefit from targeted stretch work in their strongest subject areas.

The 11+ Examination

Surbiton High School uses the Surbiton High's own entrance examination for its 11+ assessments. English, mathematics, and verbal reasoning papers taken in January of Year 6 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 Surbiton High 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 Surbiton High 11+ entrance exam?

The Surbiton High Year 7 entrance exam takes place in January of Year 6, for entry the following September. Applications typically open in the autumn term of Year 5. Check the school's website for current registration deadlines.

Does Surbiton High offer scholarships at 11+?

Yes, Surbiton High offers academic, music, and sport scholarships at 11+. Scholarship candidates typically sit additional assessments. Academic scholarships are awarded based on entrance exam performance, so thorough preparation is especially important for scholarship applicants.

What subjects does the Surbiton High 11+ exam include?

The exam covers English (comprehension and creative writing), mathematics, and verbal reasoning. Girls who perform well in the written papers may also be invited for an interview. Preparation should cover all three areas alongside any interview preparation.

How can Leading Tuition help with Surbiton High preparation?

Our specialist tutors help pupils prepare for all components of the Surbiton High entrance exam, including verbal reasoning, English, and maths. We also support scholarship applicants with stretch preparation. Book a free consultation to discuss your child's preparation needs and timeline.