FREE Download: Surbiton High School (11+) 11 Plus Exam - 2026 Key Information

​Surbiton High School is a highly regarded selective independent school for girls aged 11-18. It consistently ranks among the best independent schools in the UK, offering a vibrant academic environment. Students progress through Key Stage 3 (KS3) and sixth form (6th Form) with exceptional support.

Gaining entry to Surbiton High involves a competitive 11+ Exam process for 2026 admissions, typically comprising a Stage One Test and a Stage Two Test. These assessments evaluate English, Mathematics, and Interview skills.

The school is committed to holistic development, exemplified by its 'Super Eight' sports programme, which includes rowing and skiing, and its innovative Community Outreach Programme where pupils run a community bank.  .

Surbiton High recently hosted Laura Knight, a leading UK voice on AI and digital strategy in education, providing practical strategies for families.

In this guide, I translate 18+ years of education consultancy into a roadmap for Surbiton High School 2026 11 plus (11+) Exam admissions.

School Details

• Type of School: Independent Day School
• Boarding Type: Day only
• Gender Type: Girls (Senior School, Year 7-Sixth Form); also has Boys' and Girls' Prep Schools
• Religion: Non-denominational (offers Church Schools Foundation Bursaries)
• Age Range: 11-18 years (Senior School)
• Number of Pupils: 1600
• GCSE Results (2025) : 85% of grades were Grade 7 or above in GCSE.
• A-Level Results (2025): 68% students achieved A* / A at A Level

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Admissions Details

• Admissions Policy: Selective
• Number of Places in Year 7 (PAN): 100+
• Exam Board: School's own online assessments (English, Maths)
• Number of Stages: 2
• School Catchment Area: No formal catchment area; attracts pupils from a wide geographical area.
• Sibling Policy: Not explicitly stated; contact admissions for details.
• Pass Mark guidance: Aim for 90%

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

​Navigating the admissions process for Surbiton High School can feel like a significant undertaking for parents.

As an experienced UK Education Consultant, I have compiled the essential Surbiton High School 11 plus exam dates to help you plan effectively.

While Surbiton High School provides a dynamic timeline tool on their website, I've gathered the most commonly referenced 11 plus exam dates from various sources to give you a clear overview.

Here is a concise summary of the important dates for prospective Year 7 pupils:

​Navigating the independent schools in Kingston upon Thames, such as Surbiton High School, for 11+ Exam entry can feel complex, but a clear understanding of the steps is key for September 2026 entry. As stated in the Surbiton High School Admissions Policy, the school seeks to identify pupils who will thrive in its vibrant academic environment.

How to register for 11+ exam

• Start by attending a Surbiton High School Open Event or arranging a personal tour.
• Complete the online registration form and pay the fee, typically in Year 5, for 11 plus exam registration.
• A confidential report will be requested from your daughter's current headteacher.
• Applicants will sit the Stage One Test. Shortlisted candidates will then be invited for the Stage Two Test, which includes an interview, as part of the 11 plus exam process.

​As an independent school, Surbiton High School does not operate with a formal catchment area in the way state schools do. This means there are no specific postcode zones or geographical boundaries that determine eligibility for admission.

Instead, entry to Surbiton High is selective and based on a comprehensive admissions process. This typically includes entrance examinations in subjects such as English and Mathematics, an interview, and a review of a candidate's current school report.

The school aims to admit pupils who will thrive within its academic and co-curricular environment, regardless of their exact home address.

For Year 7 applicants, this means that pupils are welcomed from a wide range of locations across Kingston upon Thames and surrounding areas. Families should focus on the admissions criteria and the application process rather than geographical proximity to the school.

​Surbiton High School is a highly sought-after independent school, and its popularity means competition for places can be intense. For parents navigating the 11+ admissions landscape, it's crucial to develop a robust backup strategy.

This involves identifying strong alternative schools that align with your daughter's academic profile and your family's values, whether they are other leading independent schools or academically rigorous grammar schools.

Considering a mix ensures you have viable options should your first choice prove elusive, mitigating the pressure of oversubscription and providing peace of mind.

These schools are considered top alternatives due to their strong academic reputations, excellent pastoral care, and proximity to Surbiton High School.

• Lady Eleanor Holles, Putney High, and Wimbledon High offer a similar independent girls' education, often with bespoke online entrance exams and interview stages, focusing on academic potential and broader skills.
• Tiffin Girls' School provides an outstanding, free grammar school option, though its admissions process is intensely competitive, relying solely on academic exam performance (GL Assessment) across two stages.
• When making your decision, consider practical aspects like daily commute, the specific exam board or style each school uses, the stage-by-stage assessment process, and the overall oversubscription pressure. Each school also boasts impressive academic outcomes, preparing students for top university destinations.

​Surbiton High School does not publicly disclose the exact number of applications received for Year 7 entry each year, nor the precise number of places available. This is common practice among many independent schools.

As a popular and well-regarded independent girls' school, Surbiton High School is generally considered competitive for admission. While specific figures are not published, parents can infer a high level of interest based on the school's reputation and demand for places in the independent sector.

​Surbiton High School is a highly sought-after independent school for girls, and understanding its 11+ admissions process is key for prospective parents. The school's entrance examination for Year 7 entry is designed to assess a candidate's academic potential across core subjects.

Parent’s Top 2 Queries

• What exam board does Surbiton High follow?
  Surbiton High School uses its own bespoke online assessment. This means it doesn't follow a standard external exam board like GL Assessment or CEM.
• How long is the 11+ Exam for Surbiton High?
  The exact total duration of the Surbiton High School 11 Plus Test is not publicly specified. However, it comprises timed online assessments for English and Mathematics.

As stated in the Surbiton High School Admissions Policy, the school outlines its comprehensive admissions process, which includes these assessments.

The 11+ entrance examination for Surbiton High School typically takes place in November of Year 6. The assessment day includes both online and written components, designed to evaluate a candidate's abilities in key academic areas.

The main components of the Surbiton High School 11 Plus Test are:

• 11+ English: This assessment includes an online comprehension section and a hand-written creative writing exercise. Candidates will be expected to demonstrate strong reading comprehension skills and the ability to articulate ideas effectively in written form.
• 11+ Mathematics: This is an entirely online assessment. It tests a candidate's mathematical understanding and problem-solving skills, covering topics typically taught up to the end of Year 5 and the beginning of Year 6.

Candidates complete the online elements of the examination using an iPad provided by the school.

Surbiton High School 11+ Test Overview

Following the written and online assessments, shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview. This usually takes place in December or early January.

The interview is conducted by a senior member of staff and may involve a small group discussion with up to two other girls.

This stage allows the school to learn more about the candidate's personality, interests, and why they wish to join Surbiton High School. Preparing for 11+ interview questions can be beneficial.

​Surbiton High School does not publish an official 11 plus exam pass mark. Children consistently aiming for 95%+ in PiAcademy’s 11+ Practice Papers are better positioned for success.

To maximise their chances, prospective pupils should strive to achieve the highest possible scores across all tested subjects for Surbiton High.

​Surbiton High School conducts its own bespoke 11+ entrance examination for Year 7 entry, which is an online assessment for English comprehension and Mathematics.

The examination is designed to assess a candidate's understanding of the Year 5 and early Year 6 curriculum. There is a strong emphasis on core academic skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

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English Topics for Surbiton High School 11+ Exam

The English assessment at Surbiton High School comprises an online comprehension section. This dual approach tests both analytical reading skills and imaginative, structured writing abilities.

• Comprehension: Candidates are expected to demonstrate a deep understanding of unseen texts, including fiction and non-fiction. This involves identifying main ideas, inferring meaning, understanding vocabulary in context, and analysing literary devices.
  

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Mathematics Topics for Surbiton High School 11+ Exam

The Mathematics assessment is entirely online and covers a broad range of topics from the Key Stage 2 curriculum, with a focus on Year 5 and early Year 6 content. Candidates should be proficient in arithmetic, problem-solving, and applying mathematical concepts.

• Number and Place Value: Understanding large numbers, ordering, rounding, and properties of numbers.
• Calculations: Proficiency in all four operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) with whole numbers, decimals, and fractions. Mental arithmetic is also important.
• Fractions, Decimals, Percentages: Converting between these forms, comparing, and performing calculations.
• Ratio and Proportion: Solving problems involving direct proportion and simple ratios.
• Algebra: Introduction to simple algebraic expressions and sequences.
• Measurement: Calculating perimeter, area, volume, and understanding units of measurement for length, mass, capacity, and time.
• Geometry: Properties of 2D and 3D shapes, angles, coordinates, and transformations.
• Statistics: Interpreting and presenting data in various charts and graphs.
• Problem Solving: Applying mathematical knowledge to solve multi-step problems in various contexts.

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Best Resources for Surbiton High School 11+ Exam Preparation

To prepare effectively for the Surbiton High School 11+ exam, it is crucial to use resources that align with the independent school style and the online/written format. PiAcademy offers a comprehensive range of materials designed to build confidence and proficiency in all tested areas. Consistent practice with these resources, including 11 plus exam papers, will be highly beneficial.

Recommended Resources for Surbiton High School 11+

For further preparation, exploring PiAcademy's range of online mock exams can help familiarise your child with the timed, online assessment environment, which is particularly relevant for Surbiton High School's online English comprehension and Maths tests.

​Preparing for Surbiton High School's competitive 11 Plus entry requires thorough practice. Our 11 plus mock test Kingston upon Thames options are designed to familiarise your child with exam conditions, question formats, and crucial time management skills.

Surbiton High assesses English, Maths, and reasoning, making comprehensive mock exams vital for identifying strengths and areas needing improvement. Regular practice builds confidence and reduces exam day anxiety, giving your child the best chance to succeed at this prestigious independent school.

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

• Autumn Half Term 1: Tuesday 8^th September 2026 – Friday 16^th October 2026
• Autumn Half Term 2: Monday 2^nd November 2026 – Wednesday 16^th December 2026
• Spring Half Term 1: Wednesday 6^th January 2027 – Friday 12^th February 2027
• Spring Half Term 2: Monday 22^nd February 2027 – Wednesday 24^th March 2027
• Summer Half Term 1: Wednesday 14^th April 2027 – Friday 28^th May 2027
• Summer Half Term 2: Monday 7^th June 2027 – Thursday 8^th July 2027

​Navigating independent school admissions requires understanding direct application processes, specific registration deadlines, and bespoke entrance assessments. To help you prepare your child for Surbiton High School, we've compiled essential official resources, including inspection reports and admissions guidance.

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

​Surbiton High School is a leading independent day school in Kingston upon Thames, and as such, it is a fee-paying institution. 

Fees for Year 7 to Year 13 is £7,730.70 Termly with added VAT £1,546.14 making total fee £9,276.84 Termly.

The school is committed to accessibility, offering various scholarships based on merit (including academic, art, music, and sport) and means-tested bursaries. These financial aid options can help support families, making a Surbiton High education attainable for a wider range of pupils.

While Surbiton High School offers excellent value, you might be interested in exploring the most expensive Private Schools UK.