🏫 Hereford Cathedral School – 11+ Practice Papers with Video Explanations
Hereford Cathedral School (HCS) is one of the oldest schools in the UK, with roots tracing back to at least the late 14th century, and possibly earlier. It was originally founded to educate the choristers of Hereford Cathedral and has maintained a close relationship with the cathedral ever since.
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The earliest formal records date to around 1384, though it’s likely that musical and religious education was being offered even earlier.
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It was re-founded or significantly reorganized during the Reformation, like many cathedral schools.
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HCS evolved from a boys-only institution focused on religious education and Latin grammar to a modern co-educational independent day and boarding school.
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Its heritage is still reflected in the school’s strong choral tradition, with choristers continuing to be educated at the school.
👥 Pupil Numbers
As of recent years:
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Total enrolment: Approximately 600–700 pupils across the Pre-Prep, Junior, Senior School, and Sixth Form.
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Age range: 3 to 18 years.
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Co-educational: Boys and girls are admitted at all levels.
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The senior school (ages 11–18) makes up the largest portion of the student body.
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There is a small number of boarders, both domestic and international, though the school primarily serves as a day school.
📚 Academic Reputation
Hereford Cathedral School enjoys a strong academic reputation, particularly within the West Midlands and Welsh border region.
Highlights:
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Consistently strong GCSE and A-level results.
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A-level results often show 40–50% A/A grades* in recent years.
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High proportion of students gaining places at Russell Group universities, including Oxbridge.
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Offers a broad curriculum with a focus on academic excellence and individual support.
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The school is known for small class sizes and strong pastoral care, which supports academic progress.
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Strong departments in sciences, humanities, languages, and the arts.
🏆 Awards & Distinctions
While not a school known for chasing league tables or headlines, Hereford Cathedral School has earned recognition in various areas:
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Music and Choral Excellence:
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Ongoing recognition for its Cathedral chorister programme.
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Regularly participates in high-level performances and recordings.
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Independent School Awards:
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Has been shortlisted in various categories in Independent Schools of the Year awards (e.g., for pastoral care, student well-being, music).
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Sport and Co-Curricular:
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Regional successes in rugby, rowing, netball, and cricket.
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A strong Combined Cadet Force (CCF) programme, frequently recognised in national circles.
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Duke of Edinburgh’s Award:
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High participation rates and Gold Award achievements among Sixth Form students.
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📞 Contact Information
Hereford Cathedral School
Old Deanery
The Cathedral Close
Hereford
HR1 2NG
United Kingdom
📧 Email:
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General enquiries: office@herefordcs.com
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Admissions: admissions@herefordcs.com
☎️ Phone:
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Main School Office: +44 (0)1432 363522
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Admissions Office: +44 (0)1432 363506
🌐 Website:
📱 Social Media:
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Twitter/X: @HerefordCS
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Facebook: Hereford Cathedral School
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Instagram: @herefordcathedralschool
📝 Exam Board: School’s own test
How to Use ExamTutor 11 Plus Practice Papers with Video Explanations to Achieve High Scores for Hereford Cathedral School, in the 11+ Entrance Exam
Hereford Cathedral 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 Abercorn 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 Hereford Cathedral School 11+ Exam Preparation
1. Understand the Exam Format
📌 Abercorn 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 Hereford Cathedral 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 Abercorn School 11+ Entrance Exam.
📌 Start practicing today to help your child achieve a top score and secure a place at Hereford Cathedral School! 🚀
Admissions Process
- Age Group:
Entry at 11+ is for students transitioning to Year 7. - Application:
- Parents must complete an application form (available on the school’s website or from the admissions office).
- A non-refundable application fee is typically required.
- Entrance Assessment:
Candidates are required to sit entrance assessments, which typically include:- English: Evaluates reading comprehension, creative writing, and grammar.
- Mathematics: Assesses problem-solving, arithmetic, and reasoning skills.
- Reasoning Tests: May include verbal and non-verbal reasoning to measure cognitive ability.
- Interview:
- Short interviews are conducted to gauge the candidate’s personality, interests, and suitability for the school.
- This is often informal and designed to put the child at ease.
- Reports from Current School:
- The school may request a reference or academic report from the candidate’s current school to understand their performance and attitude to learning.
- Scholarships and Bursaries:
- Academic, music, and sports scholarships may be available for outstanding candidates.
- Means-tested bursaries are offered to families requiring financial support.
Hereford Cathedral School 11 Plus (11+) Scholarships and Bursaries
Scholarships and bursaries are usually applied for at the same time as registrations. Academic Scholarships are awarded by the Headmaster on the basis of your child’s performance in the Academic Scholarship Examination.
The school also offers Music Scholarships and Sports Scholarships. For more information about these awards, please visit the school’s website.
Bursaries are means-tested and allocated on the basis of an independent parental means test, which takes into account savings, investments and realisable assets, as well as income. An independent company, Bursary Administration Limited (BAL), will reach out to arrange a home visit in order to provide the school with a report. More details are available on this page.
Hereford Cathedral School 11 Plus (11+) Exam Format
The Hereford Cathedral School 11+ examination consists of the following papers:
English
Mathematics
Non-Verbal Reasoning
The English paper aims to evaluate your child’s reading, comprehension, inference and writing skills.
The maths paper is based upon work from the Core Key Stage 2 curriculum and is designed to examine your child’s skills in problem-solving and arithmetic.
The Non-Verbal Reasoning paper is designed to measure the ability to understand, interpret, problem-solve using visual reasoning, testing logic and intelligence rather than knowledge.
Please see below for further details and recommendations on how to prepare for the Hereford Cathedral School 11+ exam.
Key Dates:
- Application Deadline: Typically in the autumn term (check the school’s website for exact dates).
- Entrance Assessments: Usually held in January or February.
- Offers: Letters are sent out shortly after assessments, with deadlines for acceptance.
