Bede’s School, Eastbourne – 11+ Practice Papers with Video Explanations
Bede’s School is a leading independent co-educational day and boarding school with campuses in Eastbourne and Upper Dicker, East Sussex. The school is known for its strong academic programme, excellent pastoral care, and wide-ranging extracurricular opportunities for students aged 3 months to 18 years.
1. History & Background
- Founded in 1895, Bede’s School began as a prep school in Eastbourne before expanding into a senior school in 1979.
- The school has a holistic approach to education, encouraging students to develop both academically and personally through creative learning and strong pastoral support.
- Bede’s School has two campuses:
- Bede’s Prep School in Eastbourne (Ages 3 months – 13 years).
- Bede’s Senior School in Upper Dicker (Ages 13–18).
- The school has a reputation for developing well-rounded individuals, excelling in arts, sports, and leadership.
2. Pupil Numbers
- Approximately 1,000 students are enrolled across the school:
- Bede’s Prep School (Nursery – Year 8) – Around 350 pupils.
- Bede’s Senior School (Years 9–13) – Around 650 pupils.
- The school welcomes both day and boarding students, with around 250 boarders.
- Small class sizes ensure personalised learning, strong student-teacher relationships, and tailored academic support.
3. Academic Reputation & Awards
Bede’s School is recognised for its academic success, student development, and extracurricular achievements.
📈 Exam Performance & ISI Rating
- The school offers GCSEs and A-Levels, achieving strong academic results.
- Many students progress to Russell Group universities, including Oxbridge, Imperial, and LSE.
- Rated “Excellent” by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) for both academic achievement and personal development.
🏆 Awards & Achievements
- Sporting Excellence – Strong teams in cricket, football, hockey, athletics, and equestrian sports, competing at regional and national levels.
- Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme – Many students complete the Bronze, Silver, and Gold awards.
- STEM & Science Recognition – Participation in UK Maths Challenges, Science Olympiads, and robotics competitions.
- Performing Arts Success – Regular performances in West End theatres, national music competitions, and local festivals.
🏫 Bede’s Senior School – Contact Information
School Name: Bede’s Senior School
Type: Independent Co-educational Day and Boarding School (Ages 13–18)
📍 Address:
Bede’s Senior School
Upper Dicker
Hailsham
East Sussex
BN27 3QH
United Kingdom
☎️ Telephone:
+44 (0)1323 843252
📧 Email:
senior.admissions@bedes.org
(General enquiries: info@bedes.org)
🌐 Website:
📱 Social Media:
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Twitter/X: @BedesSchool
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Facebook: Bede’s School
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Instagram: @bedesschool
📝 Exam Board: School’s own exam
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 Bede’s Prep School, in the 11+ Entrance Exam
Bede’s Prep 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 Bede’s Prep 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 Bede’s Prep School 11+ Exam Preparation
1. Understand the Exam Format
📌Bede’s Prep 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 Bede’s Prep 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 Bede’s Prep School 11+ Entrance Exam.
📌 Start practicing today to help your child achieve a top score and secure a place at Bede’s Prep School! 🚀
Bede’s School, Eastbourne – Year 7 Admissions Criteria & How to Apply
Bede’s School is a highly regarded independent co-educational day and boarding school in Eastbourne and Upper Dicker, East Sussex. Known for its academic excellence, strong pastoral care, and diverse extracurricular opportunities, the school provides a holistic education for students aged 3 months to 18 years.
1. Admissions Criteria for Year 7 (11+ Entry)
To secure a place at Bede’s School for Year 7, students must:
✔ Perform well in the entrance assessment, which evaluates English, Mathematics, and Verbal Reasoning.
✔ Attend an interview, where their academic ability, personal interests, and suitability for the school are assessed.
✔ Provide a school reference, detailing academic performance, behaviour, and character.
Day & Boarding Options
- Bede’s School offers both day and boarding places at Year 7.
- Boarding options include full, weekly, and flexi-boarding.
- Limited places are available, so early application and preparation are advised.
2. How to Apply for Year 7 Admission
Step 1: Registration & Application
- Parents must complete an online application form via the Bede’s School website.
- A non-refundable registration fee (typically around £100) is required.
- Application deadline: Usually in November of Year 6.
Step 2: Entrance Examination
- The Year 7 entrance assessment takes place in January of Year 6.
- The exam consists of:
📌 English – Reading comprehension, grammar, and creative writing.
📌 Mathematics – Problem-solving, arithmetic, and numerical reasoning.
📌 Verbal Reasoning – Logical thinking, vocabulary, and pattern recognition.
Step 3: Interview & School Reference
- Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview with senior staff.
- The interview assesses:
📌 Academic potential and enthusiasm for learning.
📌 Personal interests, confidence, and communication skills.
📌 Suitability for Bede’s School’s values and culture. - A confidential reference is requested from the applicant’s current school.
Step 4: Offer of a Place
- Admissions decisions are announced in February or March of Year 6.
- Parents must accept the offer and pay a deposit to confirm the place.
3. Key Dates for Year 7 Entry (Typical Timeline)
📅 September – November (Year 6) – Registration deadline.
📅 January (Year 6) – Entrance exam at Bede’s School.
📅 January – February (Year 6) – Interviews and school reference checks.
📅 March (Year 6) – Offer letters sent and acceptance deadline.
📅 Summer Term (Year 6) – Induction and transition events for new students.
4. Scholarships & Bursaries
- Academic Scholarships – Awarded to top-performing candidates in the entrance exam.
- Sports Scholarships – Available for students excelling in cricket, football, netball, hockey, athletics, and equestrian sports.
- Music & Performing Arts Scholarships – For students with exceptional musical or theatrical talent.
- STEM Scholarships – For students demonstrating outstanding ability in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.
- All-Rounder Scholarships – For students who show academic potential combined with strengths in sport, arts, or leadership.
- Bursaries – Means-tested financial support is available for families requiring assistance.
5. Additional Information
- School Fees: Bede’s School charges annual tuition and boarding fees, with additional costs for extracurricular activities.
- Open Days & Taster Sessions: Families are encouraged to attend an open day to experience life at Bede’s School.



