Whitgift School 11+ Entry Guide
Whitgift School is an independent school with entry at 11+ into Year 7. This guide explains who can apply, the assessments, how offers are made and how to prepare. We update it whenever the school changes its admissions.
About the school
- An independent boys' school in South Croydon.
- Entry at 10+, 11+, 13+ and 16+.
Who can apply
- Children in Year 6 (for September 2027 entry, born 1 September 2015 to 31 August 2016), registered by the school's deadline.
- Independent schools have no catchment area. You apply to the school directly, not through your council.
- A registration fee is usually payable (often waived for families on low incomes).
Key dates for September 2027 entry
- Application closing date: Friday 6 November 2026 (the school page also shows a later registration date; use 6 November to be safe)
- Entrance exams: Tuesday 5 January 2027
- Interviews: 13 to 26 January 2027
- Decisions: emailed Friday 12 February 2027
Children now in Year 5: expect similar dates next year. Check the school's page in the spring.
The assessments
Entrance exams
The school's own English, Maths and Thinking Skills papers.
Interview
An individual interview with senior staff, and a separate meeting with parents.
How offers are made
The school makes its own offers in February.
Scholarships and bursaries
- Every candidate is considered for an Academic scholarship.
- Drama, Music and Sport scholarships need a separate application.
- Bursaries through the John Whitgift Foundation (day places).
How to help your child prepare
- Written English and Maths. The school sets its own papers. Cover all of Key Stage 2 by the end of Year 5, go further on problem solving, and practise showing maths working clearly.
- Interview. Help your child talk about their interests, the books they read and how they solved a problem. There is no need to learn answers by heart.
- Read every day. Wide reading builds the vocabulary and comprehension every entrance test needs.
- Practice material: Sample English and Maths papers are available on request. There are no samples for Thinking Skills.
Common questions from parents
Is there a 10+ entry?
Yes, with a separate exam in December.
Can we apply to several schools?
Yes. Many families apply to a few independent schools and grammar schools. Watch the different registration deadlines.
Official information
Always check the school's own pages before making decisions. Dates and arrangements can change each year.
How AshACE can help
AshACE runs small, live online 11+ classes in English, Maths and Reasoning from Year 4, run from Orpington, with over a decade of 11+ teaching. Our Year 6 Masterclasses include preparation for independent school entrance papers. See the classes below, or send us an enquiry.
Sources: Whitgift School official admissions pages; checked 25 September 2026.