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

Nottingham High School is a co-educational selective independent school in Nottingham. Established over 500 years ago, it educates pupils from nursery to Sixth Form.

Nottingham High consistently delivers strong academic results, ranking among the best independent schools in UK. It undergoes ISI inspections; its latest ISI report is available.

Nottingham High School stands out as the only school in the East Midlands ranked among the UK's Top 50 Independent Schools. For Year 7 entry, Nottingham High also offers up to 15 means-tested bursaries, some covering 100% of fees, alongside automatic academic scholarship consideration.

In this guide, I translate 6+ years of education consultancy into a roadmap for Nottingham High School 2026 11 plus (11+) Exam admissions.

School Details

• Type of School: Independent Day School
• Boarding Type: Day
• Gender Type: Co-educational
• Religion: Not applicable (Non-denominational)
• Age Range: 3-18 years (Nursery to Sixth Form)
• Number of Pupils: Approximately 1,100+
• GCSE Results: 85% of Grades were at Grade 7 or above.
• A-Level Results: 69% of all passes at A* and A grades.

​​

Admissions Details

• Admissions Policy: Selective
• Number of Places in Year 7 (PAN): Appox. 140 places
• Exam Board: School's own entrance assessment (English and Mathematics) and an online reasoning test (similar to CEM Select).
• Number of Stages: 2 (Assessment & Interview)
• School Catchment Area: No
• Sibling Policy: No
• Pass Mark guidance: Aim for 90%.

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

​Navigating the admissions process for independent schools can feel overwhelming, but I have compiled the essential Nottingham High School 11 plus exam dates to help you plan effectively. For parents considering Nottingham High School for their child's Year 7 entry, understanding the key milestones, from the Nottingham High School open day to the actual 11+ Exam date, is crucial.

This guide provides a clear overview of the important 11 plus exam dates, ensuring you don't miss any vital deadlines for this prestigious institution. Please note that while these dates are accurate at the time of writing, it's always best to verify the latest information directly on the official Nottingham High School admissions website.

For September 2027 entry, prospective pupils for Nottingham High School will navigate a clear admissions journey. As stated in the Nottingham High School Admissions Policy, the process ensures comprehensive assessment. Nottingham High School is a leading choice among independent schools in Nottingham.

How to register for 11+ exam

• To understand how to register for 11+ exam entry, complete the Online Enquiry Form.
• Submit the application form by December 2026 for September 2027 entry, registering for the Entrance Assessment.
• Prepare for the Entrance Assessment (English, Maths, Reasoning), typically held in January.
• Successful candidates will be invited for an interview.

​As an independent school, Nottingham High School does not operate a traditional catchment area. Admissions are highly selective and based on a comprehensive assessment process, rather than geographical proximity.

The school welcomes applications from families residing across Nottingham and the wider region. Entry is determined by a child's performance in the entrance assessments for English, Mathematics, and Reasoning, followed by an interview. There are no specific postcode zones, distance criteria, or priority areas that influence admission decisions for Nottingham High.

For Year 7 applicants, this means that your home address does not restrict your eligibility to apply. Families often choose Nottingham High School for its academic excellence and broad co-curricular offering, with pupils travelling from various locations to attend.

​Applying to a highly selective independent school like Nottingham High School is a significant step, and it's always prudent for parents to have a robust backup strategy. With limited places and considerable competition, securing a spot at Nottingham High can be challenging.

Exploring alternative independent schools ensures your child has excellent educational options, regardless of the outcome of their Nottingham High application.

This approach allows you to consider various school environments, academic focuses, and logistical factors such as commute times and exam styles, ensuring the best fit for your child's unique needs and aspirations.

• Nottingham Girls' High School GDST: As a leading independent girls' school within Nottingham, it offers a strong academic environment with a focus on empowering young women. For parents seeking a single-sex education with a similar calibre to Nottingham High, this is a prime alternative. The admissions process involves English, Maths, and Verbal Reasoning papers, followed by a group interview.
• Other Independent Schools: Depending on your location and willingness to travel, schools slightly further afield such as Loughborough Schools Foundation (Loughborough Grammar School for boys, Loughborough High School for girls) or Trent College in Long Eaton offer excellent independent options with distinct characters and academic strengths. These schools often have their own entrance exams, typically covering English, Maths, and Reasoning, and may include interviews.

​Nottingham High School does not publish the exact number of applications received for Year 7 entry each year. However, the school's admissions information provides insight into the competitive nature of the process.

For Year 7, Nottingham High School typically has approximately 80 places available for external candidates, in addition to around 50-60 pupils progressing from their Junior School. Following the entrance assessment, approximately 100 candidates are invited for an interview.

This indicates that the number of applicants is higher than the number of interview slots, and significantly higher than the number of external places available, making the Year 7 entry process competitive.

As stated on the Nottingham High School admissions process page, the entrance assessment for Year 7 entry includes papers in English, Mathematics, and Reasoning.

The Nottingham High School 11 Plus Test for Year 7 entry is a comprehensive assessment designed to evaluate a child's academic potential across key subjects. The examination typically takes place in January of Year 6.

11+ English

The 11+ English paper lasts 60 minutes and is divided into two sections: Reading and Writing. The Reading section presents a short extract or extracts, followed by questions testing comprehension and the ability to analyse the author's language and techniques.

For the Writing section, candidates choose one task and are expected to produce approximately one page of writing, demonstrating their ability to generate and organise ideas, write engagingly, and apply correct spelling, punctuation, and grammar.

11+ Mathematics

The 11+ Mathematics paper is 50 minutes long and contains approximately 25 questions. The initial 15 questions focus on arithmetic, while the final 10 involve problem-solving, with increasing difficulty towards the end. The mathematical knowledge required aligns with a good Year 5 or Year 6 curriculum.

Reasoning

The Reasoning test is 60 minutes in duration and is conducted on a computer. It includes both Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning questions.

The Non-Verbal Reasoning section incorporates shapes, images, and mathematical questions. Candidates are given practice exercises before starting the actual test questions.

Following the written assessments, approximately 100 candidates are invited for an interview. This crucial stage allows the school to assess your child beyond their examination marks.

The interview typically includes general questions, a review of some of the 11 plus exam questions from the Mathematics and English papers, and general problem-solving questions. For further guidance, explore common 11+ interview questions.

Encourage consistent, short study sessions rather than last-minute cramming. Regular practice with 11 plus exam questions helps build confidence and familiarises your child with different question styles. Ensure they also have plenty of rest and engage in enjoyable activities to maintain a balanced approach.

Parent’s Top 2 Queries

• What exam board does Nottingham High follow?
  Nottingham High School uses its own bespoke entrance examinations for English and Mathematics, alongside an online reasoning test that is similar in style to CEM Select.
• How long is the 11+ Exam for Nottingham High?
  The 11+ entrance assessment for Nottingham High School comprises three papers: English (60 minutes), Mathematics (50 minutes), and Reasoning (60 minutes). The total testing time is 2 hours and 50 minutes, excluding any breaks or familiarisation time for the online test.

​Nottingham High School does not publish an official 11 Plus pass mark. Admission is competitive, with around 100 candidates invited for interview. Children aiming 95%+ in PiAcademy’s 11+ Practice Papers are better positioned.

To enhance their chances, students should aim to maximise their scores across all tested subjects in the eleven plus exam for Nottingham High School.

​Nottingham High School assesses prospective Year 7 pupils through a comprehensive entrance examination covering English, Mathematics, and Reasoning. This is a single-stage assessment designed to identify academic potential and readiness for the Senior School curriculum. Following the assessments, approximately 100 candidates are invited for an interview.

English Paper Analysis (60 Minutes)

The English paper evaluates a child's reading comprehension and writing abilities. It is divided into two main sections:

• Reading: Candidates are presented with a short extract or extracts, followed by questions that test their understanding, inference skills, and ability to analyse the author's language and techniques.
• Writing: Pupils choose from a selection of tasks to produce approximately one page of writing. This section assesses their capacity to generate and organise ideas, write engagingly, and demonstrate strong spelling, punctuation, and grammar skills.

Mathematics Paper Analysis (50 Minutes)

The Mathematics paper consists of approximately 25 questions, designed to assess a pupil's mathematical knowledge appropriate for a good Year 5 or 6 student. The paper progresses in difficulty:

• Arithmetic: The initial 15 questions focus on core arithmetic skills, including the four basic operations, fractions, decimals, and percentages.
• Problem Solving: The final 10 questions involve more complex problem-solving scenarios, often requiring multi-step solutions and application of various mathematical concepts. These questions are generally harder and test deeper understanding.

Reasoning Test Analysis (60 Minutes)

The Reasoning test is computer-based and includes both Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning questions. While Nottingham High School does not provide sample tests due to copyright, it is described as similar to CEM Select style assessments. Candidates have practice exercises before the test begins.

• Verbal Reasoning: Assesses a child's ability to understand and reason with words, including vocabulary, logical deduction, and code-breaking.
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Focuses on problem-solving using shapes, images, and patterns, often involving spatial awareness and mathematical reasoning without words.

​

Best Resources for Nottingham High School 11+ Preparation

To prepare effectively for the Nottingham High School 11+ entrance exam, a targeted approach using high-quality practice materials is essential. PiAcademy offers a range of resources tailored to the specific subjects and styles tested.

For comprehensive preparation, explore a wide range of 11 plus exam papers.

Recommended Resources for English

Recommended Resources for Mathematics

Recommended Resources for Reasoning

Nottingham High School is a highly competitive independent school in Nottingham, making thorough preparation essential for Year 7 entry. The admissions process includes a computer-based reasoning test (similar to CEM Select) alongside bespoke English and Mathematics papers.

To truly excel, your child needs to experience exam conditions, manage time effectively, and identify areas for improvement. Our 11 plus mock test Nottingham options are designed to mirror the actual assessment, building confidence and reducing anxiety.

For a comprehensive understanding of your child's current standing, consider our free 11 Plus diagnostic assessment.

• Autumn Half Term 1: 03rd September 2026 - 16th October 2026
• Autumn Half Term 2: 02nd November 2026 - 16th December 2026
• Spring Half Term 1: 06th January 2027 - 12th February 2027
• Spring Half Term 2: 22nd February 2027 - 25th March 2027
• Summer Half Term 1: 13th April 2027 - 28th May 2027
• Summer Half Term 2: 07th June 2027 - 02nd 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 Nottingham High School.

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

​Determining the exact fees for Nottingham High School is a key consideration for prospective parents. While specific Year 7 fee figures are not readily available in our current information, we strongly advise visiting the official Nottingham High School admissions page or contacting their admissions team directly for the most up-to-date fee schedule.

Independent schools like Nottingham High often review their fees annually. It's worth noting that the school offers significant financial assistance, including means-tested bursaries for Year 7 entrants.

This commitment ensures that a Nottingham High education remains accessible. For a broader perspective on independent school costs, you might explore our article on the most expensive Private Schools UK.