FREE Download: Caterham School 2026 11+ Exam & Year 7 Entry 11 Plus Guide

Caterham School is a co-educational selective independent school in Caterham, Surrey. Founded in 1811, it educates pupils aged 04 to 18, covering Key Stage 3 (KS3) and sixth form (6th Form).

Recognised among the best independent schools in UK, Caterham is a multi-award winning institution. It is celebrated as a global academic innovator, reflecting its commitment to excellence.

Caterham School stands out as a global academic innovator, recognised as an EdTech 50 and Apple Distinguished School. It offers a pioneering Ethical AI & Entrepreneurship Qualification, developed with Nottingham University Business School, preparing pupils for future challenges. The unique EDGE curriculum further fosters critical and innovative thinking.

In this guide, I leverage my 18-year education consultancy background to simplify Caterham School 2026 11+ Exam admissions for every parent.

School Details

• Type of School: Independent
• Boarding Type: Day and Boarding (including Half Weekly Boarding options)
• Gender Type: Co-educational
• Religion: affiliated with the United Reformed Church
• Age Range: 04 - 18 years
• Number of Pupils: 1100+ pupils
• GCSE Results (2025): 92% of all GCSE grades at 9 to 7
• A-Level Results (2025): 92% of grades at A* to B

Admissions Details

• Admissions Policy: Selective
• Number of Places in Year 7 (PAN): 80
• Exam Board: ISEB Common Pre-Test, followed by school-set assessments
• Number of Stages: 3
• School Catchment Area: No
• Sibling Policy: Yes
• Pass Mark guidance: Aim for 90%

This information has been sourced from Get Information about Schools and Caterham School Official Website.

Navigating the admissions process for Caterham School can feel like a significant undertaking for parents. To assist you in planning, I have compiled the most important 11 plus exam dates and key admissions milestones for Caterham School.

These dates are crucial for families considering 11+ entry, ensuring you don't miss any vital steps, from the Caterham School open day opportunities to the actual 11+ Exam date. Keeping track of these 11 plus exam dates will help you prepare thoroughly for your child's application journey.

Here is a concise overview of the key dates for 11+ entry to Caterham School for September 2027:

For parents considering Caterham School for September 2027 entry, understanding the 11 plus exam process is key. As stated in the Caterham School Admissions Policy, entry is selective, based on academic merit and potential wider contribution. The process includes an informal interview and assessments.

How to register for 11+ exam

• Submit your application for Caterham School by early November of Year 6 (for 2027 entry, this means November 2026).
• Parents must complete the 11 plus exam registration for the ISEB Common Pre-Test.
• Applicants will be invited for an informal interview.
• Prepare for the EDGE Experience Day, including Maths and an EDGE paper.
• A confidential school reference will be requested.

As an independent day and boarding school in Surrey, Caterham School does not operate a fixed catchment area in the same way state schools do. This means that pupils are welcomed from a wide geographical region, both locally and internationally.

Admissions to Caterham School are highly selective and based primarily on academic merit, alongside an assessment of each child's potential to make a positive wider contribution to the school community.

The admissions process involves a comprehensive evaluation, including entrance examinations and an interview, rather than proximity to the school.

For Year 7 applicants to Caterham School, living within a specific postcode or distance from the school is not a factor in the admissions decision.

When considering a highly sought-after independent school like Caterham School, it's always a wise strategy for parents to explore strong alternatives. The admissions process for top schools can be incredibly competitive and oversubscribed, meaning even very capable children may not secure a place.

Building a robust backup plan, which might include a mix of independent and grammar schools depending on your location and preferences, ensures your child has excellent options regardless of the outcome. This approach reduces pressure and provides peace of mind.

• Reigate Grammar School: A highly academic co-educational independent school, often considered a direct alternative to Caterham School due to its strong reputation and similar catchment area. It offers a rigorous academic programme and a wide array of co-curricular activities.
• Trinity School (Croydon): For parents considering a boys' independent school with exceptional academic and sporting prowess, Trinity is an excellent choice. While single-sex for the main school, its strong results and broad curriculum make it a compelling option within a commutable distance.
• Lingfield College: This co-educational independent school provides a nurturing environment with strong academic and pastoral care. It might appeal to parents seeking a slightly less intensely competitive entry process than Caterham, while still offering a high-quality education and diverse opportunities.
• Dunottar School (Reigate): A growing co-educational independent school known for its supportive community and focus on individual development. It offers a balanced education with a strong emphasis on wellbeing and character, making it a good alternative for those seeking a holistic approach.

Caterham School does not publicly release the exact number of applications it receives for Year 7 (11+ entry) each year. However, as a highly successful and selective co-educational independent day and boarding school, competition for places is generally strong.

The school assesses all applicants through a comprehensive process, which includes the ISEB Common Pre-Test, an informal interview, and their unique EDGE Experience Day assessments, alongside a confidential school reference. This thorough selection process indicates a significant level of interest from prospective pupils.

​Navigating the 11+ admissions process for Caterham School can feel daunting, but understanding the test format is the first step. As an experienced UK Education Consultant, I'm here to clarify what prospective Year 7 pupils can expect.

As stated in the Caterham School Admissions Policy, the 11+ admissions process for Year 7 entry is comprehensive, designed to assess academic merit and a child's potential wider contribution to the school community.

The Caterham School 11 Plus Test for Year 7 entry is structured in two distinct stages, followed by an interview:

Stage One Test: ISEB Common Pre-Test

The first stage involves the ISEB Common Pre-Test, an adaptive online assessment. For 2027 entry, this is typically taken in November of Year 6, either at the child’s current school or at Caterham School on a specified Saturday (e.g., Saturday 14 November 2026 for 2027 entry). This test covers four key areas:

• 11+ English: Assesses reading comprehension, spelling, punctuation, and grammar.
• 11+ Mathematics: Covers Year 5 national curriculum topics, including arithmetic and multi-step problem-solving.
• Verbal Reasoning: Tests the ability to solve problems using written information, including letters, words, symbols, and numbers.
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Evaluates logic, critical thinking, and problem-solving using figures and diagrams, requiring analysis and manipulation of 2D and 3D shapes.

The ISEB Common Pre-Test is multiple-choice and takes around 2.5 hours. Pupils applying to multiple schools using this test only need to sit it once.

Stage  Two: 11+ Interview

All applicants are invited for an informal interview at Caterham School in November (mid to late November 2026 for 2027 entry). These conversations allow the school to get to know each child individually, understand their interests and passions, and help applicants become familiar with the school environment.

For guidance on preparing, explore common 11+ interview questions.

Stage Three Test: EDGE Experience Day Assessments

All applicants are invited to the EDGE Experience Day, which for 2027 entry is scheduled for Saturday 9 January 2027. This session includes two Caterham entrance assessments:

• 11+ Mathematics Paper: A school-set maths assessment covering number, measurement, geometry, algebra, and statistics.
• EDGE Paper: This unique paper includes a writing task, critical thinking problems, and an exercise designed to showcase innovative thinking and problem-solving skills. The writing task examines writing skills, including spelling, vocabulary, and punctuation, with marks awarded for imagination, creativity, and structure.

The EDGE Experience Day also incorporates unassessed, fun, and collaborative problem-solving activities, reflecting Caterham's dynamic educational approach.

Caterham School 11+ Resources

Parent’s Top 2 Queries

• How long is the 11+ Exam for Caterham School?
  The ISEB Common Pre-Test typically takes approximately 2.5 hours to complete. The subsequent EDGE Experience Day includes two Caterham entrance assessments within a morning or afternoon session.
• ​What exam board does Caterham School follow?
  Caterham School utilises the ISEB Common Pre-Test for the initial stage of its 11+ assessment. The latter stage involves school-set papers.
  

Caterham School does not publish an official pass mark for its 11 plus exam. However, children aiming for 95%+ in PiAcademy’s 11+ Practice Papers are generally better positioned for success.

To maximise their chances, prospective pupils should aim to achieve the highest possible scores across all tested subjects, as strong 11 plus exam results are crucial for admission to Caterham School.

Caterham School employs a comprehensive 3 stage assessment process for its 11+ entry, designed to identify pupils with strong academic potential and a genuine enthusiasm for learning. As an experienced UK Education Consultant, I advise parents to understand both stages thoroughly for effective preparation.

ISEB Common Pre-Test

The initial stage for Caterham School's 11+ admissions is the ISEB Common Pre-Test. This is an adaptive online assessment covering four core subjects, typically taken in November of Year 6. It is designed to evaluate a child's academic abilities across a broad spectrum.

English (ISEB Common Pre-Test)

This section assesses a candidate's proficiency in reading comprehension, vocabulary, spelling, punctuation, and grammar. Questions are multiple-choice and adapt to the child's performance.

Mathematics (ISEB Common Pre-Test)

The Maths paper covers topics generally aligned with the Year 5 National Curriculum, including arithmetic, number properties, data handling, geometry, and multi-step problem-solving. The adaptive nature means questions increase in difficulty as correct answers are given.

Verbal Reasoning (ISEB Common Pre-Test)

Verbal Reasoning tests a child's ability to understand and logically process information presented in words. This includes identifying patterns, codes, and relationships between words and concepts.

Non-Verbal Reasoning (ISEB Common Pre-Test)

This section assesses problem-solving skills using diagrams, shapes, and patterns, without relying on language. It evaluates a child's spatial awareness and logical deduction.

It is worth noting that the one-to-one informal interview takes place between the two exam components (typically spanning late November and December).

Caterham School's EDGE Experience Day Assessments

Following the ISEB Pre-Test, all applicants are invited to the EDGE Experience Day, typically held in January. This stage includes school-set assessments designed to delve deeper into a child's potential and align with Caterham's unique educational philosophy.

Mathematics (Caterham School Paper)

The school's own Maths paper will likely feature a range of questions covering number, measurement, geometry, algebra, and statistics, often requiring written solutions rather than multiple-choice. This paper assesses both knowledge and application of mathematical concepts.

EDGE Paper - Creative Writing

The writing task within the EDGE paper evaluates a child's ability to express themselves imaginatively and coherently. Marks are awarded for creativity, structure, vocabulary, spelling, and punctuation.

EDGE Paper - Critical Thinking & Problem Solving

This unique section of the EDGE paper is designed to assess innovative thinking and problem-solving skills. It may involve scenarios or puzzles that require logical reasoning and creative solutions, reflecting Caterham's emphasis on dynamic education.

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Best Resources for Caterham School 11+ Preparation

To prepare effectively for Caterham School's 11+ entrance exams, a structured approach using targeted resources is key. PiAcademy offers a range of materials specifically designed to cover the required subjects and exam formats. For a broader selection of practice materials, explore our 11 plus exam papers.

Recommended Resources for Stage One: ISEB Common Pre-Test

Recommended Resources for Stage Two: Caterham School's Own Assessments

Recommended Resources for Stage Three: Caterham School's Own Assessments

Caterham School in Surrey is a highly competitive independent school, and thorough preparation is key for prospective pupils. Engaging in an 11 plus mock test Surrey is crucial for familiarising your child with the exam format and managing test day nerves.

Caterham School's 11+ admissions process includes the ISEB Common Pre-Test, which assesses English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning, alongside their unique EDGE Experience Day assessments.

Our board-matching mock exams are designed to simulate the real examination environment, helping your child identify areas for improvement and build confidence. For a comprehensive understanding of your child's current standing, consider our free 11 Plus diagnostic assessment.

• Autumn Half Term 1: Thursday 3rd September / Friday 4th September - Friday 16th October 2026
• Autumn Half Term 2: Monday 2nd November - Friday 11th December 2026
• Spring Half Term 1: Monday 4th January / Tuesday 5th January - Friday 12th February 2027
• Spring Half Term 2: Monday 22nd February - Thursday 25th March 2027
• Summer Half Term 1: Monday 19th April - Friday 28th May 2027
• Summer Half Term 2: Monday 7th June - Friday 2nd July 2027

Independent school admissions involve direct applications, distinct registration deadlines, and bespoke pre-testing. Review these official inspection reports and testing guidelines to prepare your child for Caterham School.

• ISEB Familiarisation Materials
• UK Govt. - Get Information on Caterham School Page
• Caterham School ISI Report
• Caterham School Admissions Policy
• UK Govt. - Schools, pupils and their characteristics data
• Caterham School - Charity Commission

Caterham School, a leading independent school in Surrey, does not publicly list its current annual fees for Year 7 on its admissions pages. The Day fees for Years 7 to 13 is £9,210 per term for the Academic Year 2025/2026.

However, it is important to note that independent school fees can be substantial, with some institutions ranking among the most expensive Private Schools UK. Caterham School does offer various forms of financial assistance, including means-tested bursaries and a range of co-curricular scholarships to support talented pupils.