Howell’s School, Llandaff – 11+ Practice Papers with Video Explanations
1. History of the School
Howell’s School, Llandaff, is a prestigious independent day school for girls aged 3-18 and co-educational in the Sixth Form, located in Cardiff, Wales. The school is known for its academic excellence, strong pastoral care, and extensive extracurricular opportunities.
- Founded in 1860 by Thomas Howell, a Welsh merchant, the school was originally established as a girls’ school under the Howell’s Trust.
- It became part of the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST) in 2005, joining a network of 25 leading independent girls’ schools across the UK.
- The school has maintained its traditional values while adopting modern teaching methods to provide a dynamic and forward-thinking education.
2. Pupil Numbers
- Howell’s School educates approximately 850 students, ensuring a close-knit and supportive community.
- The school is structured into:
- Nursery & Prep School (ages 3-11, girls only).
- Senior School (ages 11-16, girls only).
- Sixth Form College (ages 16-18, co-educational).
- Small class sizes allow for individual attention and a personalised learning experience.
3. Academic Achievements and Awards
Howell’s School has a strong academic reputation, with students achieving exceptional GCSE and A-Level results.
📌 Outstanding GCSE and A-Level Performance
- A high percentage of students achieve grades 9-7 at GCSE and A-B at A-Level*.
- Many students progress to top UK universities, including Oxford, Cambridge, and Russell Group institutions.
📌 STEM & Innovation Excellence
- The school has a strong emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
- Students regularly compete in national and international STEM competitions.
📌 National Recognition
- Rated “Excellent” by Estyn, the education inspectorate for Wales, for both academic achievement and personal development.
- Part of the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST), a network known for producing high-achieving female leaders.
🏫 Howell’s School, Llandaff – Contact Information
School Name: Howell’s School, Llandaff GDST
Type: Independent Day School for Girls (Ages 3–18) and Co-educational Nursery & Sixth Form
Principal: Mrs. Sally Davis
Affiliation: Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST)
📍 Address:
Howell’s School, Llandaff
Cardiff Road
Llandaff
Cardiff
CF5 2YD
Wales, United Kingdom
☎️ Telephone:
+44 (0)29 2056 2019
📧 Email:
🌐 Website:
https://www.howells-cardiff.gdst.net
📱 Social Media:
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Twitter/X: @HowellsSchool
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Facebook: Howell’s School Llandaff GDST
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Instagram: @howellsschool
📝 Exam Board: School’s own exam
The school’s location can be viewed on the map below:
How to Use ExamTutor 11 Plus Practice Papers with Video Explanations to Achieve High Scores for Howell’s School, Llandaff in the 11+ Entrance Exam
Howell’s School, Llandaff 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 Howell’s School, Llandaff 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 Howell’s School, Llandaff 11+ Exam Preparation
1. Understand the Exam Format
📌Howell’s School, Llandaff 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 Howell’s School, Llandaff – 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 Howell’s School, Llandaff 11+ Entrance Exam.
📌 Start practicing today to help your child achieve a top score and secure a place at Howell’s School, Llandaff! 🚀
Howell’s School, Llandaff – Year 7 Admissions Criteria & How to Apply
Howell’s School, Llandaff, is a highly prestigious independent girls’ school in Cardiff, providing academic excellence and a well-rounded education for students aged 3-18. The school is part of the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST), offering a supportive and enriching environment. Entry into Year 7 (11+ entry) is selective, with places awarded based on academic performance, an interview, and a school reference.
1. Admissions Criteria for Year 7 Entry
✔️ Entrance Examination Performance
- All applicants must sit the 11+ entrance examination, which assesses:
- English – Reading comprehension, grammar, punctuation, and creative writing.
- Mathematics – Problem-solving, arithmetic, and numerical reasoning.
- Verbal Reasoning – Assessing logic, vocabulary, and pattern recognition.
✔️ School Reference
- A confidential reference from the applicant’s current school is required.
- This reference provides insight into academic ability, behaviour, and personal qualities.
✔️ Interview (Invitation Only)
- Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview with senior staff.
- The interview assesses confidence, enthusiasm for learning, and suitability for Howell’s School’s academic and extracurricular environment.
✔️ Co-Curricular Interests & Personal Qualities
- The school values students who demonstrate talent in music, sport, drama, leadership, and other extracurricular activities.
2. How to Apply for Year 7 at Howell’s School, Llandaff
Step 1: Attend an Open Event (Recommended, Optional)
- Families are encouraged to attend an Open Day or arrange a private school tour.
- Open Events typically take place in September and October.
Step 2: Register for Admission
- Parents must complete the online registration form on the Howell’s School website.
- A non-refundable registration fee is required.
- The registration deadline is usually in early November of Year 6.
Step 3: Sit the Entrance Exam
- The 11+ entrance exam takes place in January at Howell’s School, Llandaff.
- The test includes English, Mathematics, and Verbal Reasoning assessments.
Step 4: Interview & School Reference Check
- Based on entrance exam performance, selected candidates are invited for an interview in January or February.
- A school reference from the current school is reviewed at this stage.
Step 5: Offer of a Place
- Offers are made in February.
- Parents must accept the offer by a set deadline (usually March) and pay a deposit to confirm their child’s place.
3. Scholarships and Bursaries
Howell’s School offers scholarships and means-tested bursaries for outstanding students:
🏆 Academic Scholarships – Awarded to top-performing students in the entrance exam.
🎼 Music Scholarships – Available for students demonstrating exceptional musical ability (audition required).
🎭 Drama Scholarships – Given to students with strong talent in theatre and performing arts.
⚽ Sports Scholarships – Awarded to students excelling in netball, hockey, swimming, athletics, and equestrian sports.
💷 Bursaries (Financial Assistance) – Means-tested bursaries available for families who meet eligibility criteria.
4. Key Dates for Year 7 Admissions (Typical Timeline)
| Event | Typical Date |
|---|---|
| Open Days & Private Tours | September – October |
| Registration Deadline | Early November (Year 6) |
| Entrance Exam (11+) | January (Year 6) |
| Interviews & School Reference Checks | January – February (Year 6) |
| Offers Sent | February (Year 6) |
| Acceptance Deadline | March (Year 6) |
| New Student Induction Events | June – July |
| Start at Howell’s School, Llandaff | September (Year 7) |
Howell’s School, Llandaff, has a highly selective admissions process, focusing on academic ability, extracurricular potential, and personal qualities. Early registration and thorough preparation are key to securing a place.



