What Subjects Are Tested in The Henrietta Barnett School Entrance Exam?
Girls applying to The Henrietta Barnett School (HBS) sit a two-stage entrance process. The first round takes place in early September, and the top 300 candidates are invited to return for a second round in early October
First Round Entrance Exam
The first round consists of 11+ papers produced by GL Assessment. All questions are multiple-choice, and candidates complete their answers on separate answer sheets provided with the question booklet.
This stage assesses three key areas:
English
Questions are aligned with the National Curriculum and reflect what pupils are learning in school. A reading comprehension section is usually included.
Verbal Reasoning
Verbal reasoning is not directly taught in schools. It tests a child’s ability to think logically and solve problems using written information, such as words, letters, numbers, and symbols.
Non-Verbal Reasoning
This paper focuses on problem-solving using visual information, including shapes, patterns, diagrams, and images. Like verbal reasoning, it assesses reasoning ability rather than learned content.
Second Round Entrance Exam
Girls who qualify for the second stage sit two written papers, both designed and set by The Henrietta Barnett School.
Mathematics Paper
The maths paper evaluates understanding and application of mathematical concepts.
English Paper
This assesses reading comprehension and creative writing, with a focus on clarity of expression, structure, and originality.
Unlike the first round, these papers are not multiple-choice. The content typically aligns with Year 5 and Year 6 National Curriculum objectives, requiring pupils to apply their knowledge.
