THE 11+ JOURNEY AT HOE BRIDGE SCHOOL

If you are beginning to explore the 11+ process, it’s natural to wonder not only what is involved, but how your child will experience it. At Hoe Bridge School, the admissions journey is designed with your child’s wellbeing, confidence, and achievement firmly in mind. 

ISEB Assessment 

We follow the ISEB assessment, which comprises Maths, English, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning. The assessmentsare fully computerised. For parents, this offers reassurance that children are being assessed fairly. 

Importantly, your child won’t be approaching the assessment unfamiliar or unprepared. Free practice materials are available through the ISEB portal over the summer holidays, giving them the chance to become comfortable with the format in a low-pressure way. This early exposure can make a significant difference in building familiarity and reducing nerves. 

Preparation with Hoe Bridge Summer Camps 

To further support children, Hoe Bridge also offers its 11+ summer camp, which is a valuable opportunity for those preparing for the 11+. These camps are designed not only to strengthen academic skills but to introduce exam techniques and strategies in a supportive and engaging environment. Just as importantly, they help children develop confidence and reduce anxiety—ensuring they approach the assessment feeling positive rather than overwhelmed. For many families, this combination of gentle preparation and confidence-building can be a crucial part of the journey. Register here for this summer's 11+ Camp: 11+ Revision Camp 

Assessment Morning – Saturday 21 November 

The formal assessment itself will take place on the morning of Saturday, 21 November at Hoe Bridge. From the moment your child arrives, the focus is on making them feel at ease. They will be welcomed by the Headmaster and Admissions team, who work hard to create a warm, calm atmosphere where every child can settle quickly and do their best. 

Activity Day - Tuesday 26 January 2027 

Following the assessment, a shortlist of candidates is created. If your child is invited to the next stage, they will attend an activity day—often one of the most enjoyable parts of the process. This day gives us a chance to get to know your child further and offers your child the opportunity to take part in group activities where they can show their creativity, communication skills, ability to work with others and academic potential. 

For parents, this stage is particularly reassuring. It means that admission decisions are not based on exam results alone, but on a broader understanding of your child as an individual—their personality, potential, and how they might thrive within the school community. 

Ultimately, the Hoe Bridge approach is about finding the right fit for your child, not simply selecting the highest scorers. By focusing on well-being, confidence and a rounded view of ability, the process aims to ensure that children who join the school are happy, confident, and ready to achieve. 

Register Your Child 

If you are considering registering your child, the deadline is 30 October 2026. Early registration will give you access to preparation resources and allow your child to make the most of opportunities such as the summer camps. 

To find out more or begin your application, click here (link to Register Your Child)