Abingdon School – 11+ Practice Papers with Video Explanations
Abingdon School is one of the UK’s oldest and most prestigious independent day and boarding schools for boys aged 11 to 18, located in Abingdon-on-Thames, Oxfordshire. It is well known for its academic excellence, outstanding sport, and a vibrant extra-curricular programme, including a nationally renowned partnership with the nearby School of St Helen and St Katharine for co-curricular and social opportunities.
🏛️ History of the School
- Founded: Traces its roots back to 1256, making it one of the oldest schools in England
- Formally re-endowed in 1563 by John Roysse, a wealthy London merchant, who gave the school its first permanent home in Abingdon
- Originally a grammar school, it evolved over centuries into a leading public (independent) school
- Maintains strong historical ties with The Worshipful Company of Mercers, a livery company of the City of London
- Over the years, the school has grown in scale and reputation, while retaining its historic traditions and forward-thinking ethos
👨🎓 Pupil Numbers
- Total enrolment: Approximately 1,050 boys
- Lower School (Years 7–8): ~130
- Middle School (Years 9–11): ~450
- Sixth Form (Years 12–13): ~470
- Around 130 boarders, with both UK and international pupils
- Entry points: 11+, 13+, and 16+
- Partner school: St Helen and St Katharine (girls’ school), with whom Abingdon shares clubs, performances, trips, and social events
🎓 Academic Reputation
Abingdon is renowned for academic excellence, consistently ranking among the top independent boys’ schools in the UK, with exceptional performance in both GCSE and A-Level exams.
📈 Academic Results:
- GCSE:
- Over 85% of grades were 9–7 (A–A*)
- A-Level:
- Nearly 90% of grades were A–B*
- Top-performing subjects include: Maths, Further Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Economics, Latin, History, and Politics
🎓 University Destinations:
- High proportion of leavers attend:
- Oxford and Cambridge (10–20 offers annually)
- Russell Group universities, including UCL, Durham, Bristol, Imperial, LSE, Warwick
- A growing number of students also apply to US universities and international institutions
- Popular degree paths: Engineering, Medicine, Law, Natural Sciences, Economics, and the Arts
💰 Scholarships & Bursaries
- Scholarships offered at 11+, 13+, and 16+ in:
- Academic subjects, Art, Drama, Music, and Sport
- Means-tested bursaries available, with the school committed to broadening access and increasing financial support for deserving pupils
🏆 Awards & Recognition
- ISI Inspection:
- Rated “Excellent” in all areas (latest inspection)
- Featured in:
- The Times and Sunday Times Parent Power league tables as one of the top boys’ schools in the UK
- Students regularly win national prizes in:
- Maths Olympiads, Physics and Chemistry Challenges, Essay competitions, Debating, and Model United Nations
🏫 Abingdon School – Contact Information
School Name: Abingdon School
Type: Independent Day and Boarding School for Boys (Ages 11–18)
📍 Address:
Abingdon School
Park Road
Abingdon
Oxfordshire
OX14 1DE
United Kingdom
☎️ Telephone:
+44 (0)1235 521563
📧 Email:
-
General enquiries: admissions@abingdon.org.uk
-
Reception: info@abingdon.org.uk
🌐 Website:
📱 Social Media:
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Instagram: @abingdonschool
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Twitter/X: @abingdonschool
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Facebook: Abingdon School
📝 Exam Board: School’s own test
You can view the school’s location on the map below:
How to Use ExamTutor 11 Plus Practice Papers with Video Explanations to Achieve High Scores for Abingdon School, in the 11+ Entrance Exam
Abingdon School uses its own 11+ entrance test for admission to Year 7. To secure a place, students must perform well in the exam, which assesses English, Mathematics, and Reasoning skills.
Why Use ExamTutor 11 Plus Practice Papers with Video Explanations?
✔ Designed for Independent School Entrance Exams – Covers question types that may appear in the Abingdon School entrance test.
✔ Video Explanations for Every Question – Helps students understand mistakes and improve problem-solving skills.
✔ Identifies Strengths & Weaknesses – Tailored practice to improve weaker areas.
✔ Boosts Confidence & Exam Performance – Familiarisation with exam-style questions reduces anxiety.
How to Use ExamTutor for Abingdon School 11+ Exam Preparation
1. Understand the Exam Format
📌 The Abingdon School 11+ entrance test typically includes:
- English – Reading comprehension, creative writing, and grammar.
- Mathematics – Problem-solving, arithmetic, and numerical reasoning.
- Reasoning (Verbal & Non-Verbal) – Logical thinking, pattern recognition, and spatial awareness.
✔ Start by introducing your child to each section and understanding what is tested.
2. Create a Structured Study Plan
✔ Allocate dedicated study time for each subject every week.
✔ Use ExamTutor practice papers to track progress.
✔ Practice under timed conditions to improve speed and accuracy.
3. Boost Confidence with Video Explanations
Some 11+ question types can be challenging for students. Our expert-led video explanations:
🎥 Break down complex questions step by step
🎥 Teach proven problem-solving techniques
🎥 Show shortcuts and strategies to save time in the exam
🎥 Help students reinforce learning and build confidence
How to Use Video Explanations Effectively:
✅ Review incorrect answers with video solutions – Identify and correct mistakes early.
✅ Take notes on key strategies – Record important problem-solving techniques for future reference.
✅ Rewatch explanations for difficult topics – Reinforce learning by revisiting challenging areas.
4. Develop Exam Strategies & Time Management
✔ Teach skimming and scanning techniques for comprehension questions.
✔ Use mental maths tricks to speed up calculations.
✔ Practice logical reasoning techniques to improve accuracy in reasoning questions.
5. Take Practice Exams & Review Performance
✔ Schedule practice exams close to the real test date.
✔ Analyse results and focus on weak areas.
✔ Use ExamTutor’s tutor-led video explanations for targeted revision.
6. Boost Confidence & Reduce Exam Stress
✔ Maintain a positive and encouraging learning environment.
✔ Encourage regular breaks and revision balance.
✔ Use mindfulness techniques to stay calm before the exam.
Final Tips for Success
✔ Start preparation early – At least 6-12 months before the exam.
✔ Use ExamTutor’s practice tests regularly – Build confidence with real exam-style questions.
✔ Practice writing skills – Creative writing is often a key component in independent school exams.
✔ Stay consistent – Small daily practice sessions are more effective than last-minute cramming.
✔ Attend an open day or taster session at Abingdon School – Familiarity with the school environment can boost confidence.
By using ExamTutor 11 Plus Practice Papers with Video Explanations, your child will gain strong exam skills, improve accuracy, and build confidence—increasing their chances of success in the Abingdon School 11+ Entrance Exam.
📌 Start practicing today to help your child achieve a top score and secure a place at Abingdon School! 🚀
Abingdon School – Year 7 Admissions Criteria & How to Apply
Independent Day and Boarding School for Boys | Abingdon, Oxfordshire | Ages 11–18
Abingdon School is one of the UK’s leading independent day and boarding schools for boys, located in Abingdon, Oxfordshire. With a rich history dating back to the 13th century, Abingdon offers a balance of academic excellence, exceptional pastoral care, and a strong co-curricular programme, including the renowned “Other Half” activities programme.
Year 7 is a main entry point into Lower School (Years 7–8) before progressing to Middle School (Year 9).
✅ Year 7 Admissions Criteria
Entry into Year 7 is selective and based on:
- Entrance Assessment
- Interview
- Reference from the applicant’s current school
🔹 1. Entrance Assessment
Applicants sit an entrance assessment in January of Year 6 for entry the following September.
📝 Assessment includes:
- English – Comprehension and writing
- Mathematics – Based on the Key Stage 2 curriculum
- Reasoning – Verbal or non-verbal reasoning
📍 Assessments take place on-site at Abingdon School.
🔹 2. Interview
- All candidates are invited to a short, informal interview
- Conducted by a member of the Lower School or admissions team
- Aims to get to know the boy’s personality, interests, and enthusiasm for learning
🔹 3. School Reference
A confidential reference is requested from the pupil’s current school, detailing:
- Academic progress and potential
- Attitude and behaviour
- Participation in wider school life
🎓 Scholarships & Bursaries
⭐ Academic Scholarships
- No separate application required – awarded based on performance in the entrance exam
- Typically honorary or a small fee reduction
⭐ Music Scholarships
- Open to talented musicians entering Year 7
- Includes an audition and interview
- Scholars may receive free music tuition and a small fee remission
💰 Means-Tested Bursaries
- Available for families who would not otherwise be able to afford the fees
- Bursaries may cover up to 100% of fees, depending on financial need
- A full financial assessment is required
Bursaries can be awarded in combination with scholarships
📝 How to Apply for Year 7 at Abingdon
✅ Step 1: Visit the School
- Attend an Open Morning, Lower School Information Evening, or arrange a private tour
🔗 Visit Abingdon
✅ Step 2: Register
- Complete the online registration form
- Pay the registration fee: £150
🔗 Registration Info
🗓 Registration deadline for entry: Early December
✅ Step 3: Entrance Assessment & Interview
- Date: January
- Includes tests and interview, all on the same day
✅ Step 4: Offers & Acceptance
- Offers sent in February
- Deadline for acceptance: usually March, with a deposit required to secure the place
