South Hampstead High School (SHHS) is one of north London’s most sought-after independent girls’ schools. Part of the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST), it is known for academic excellence, a warm pastoral environment and a forward-thinking approach to education.
With strong demand for places — particularly at 11+, the main entry point — families benefit from a clear understanding of the admissions process and what the school is looking for.
At Clarendon Tutors, we support pupils applying to South Hampstead High with tailored academic preparation and interview coaching, helping them approach the process with confidence and clarity.
About South Hampstead High School
Located in Hampstead, SHHS combines a rigorous academic curriculum with a strong emphasis on confidence, creativity and independence. Pupils are encouraged to engage critically with their learning while developing resilience and a genuine enthusiasm for new ideas.
The school consistently achieves excellent GCSE and A Level results, while also offering a rich co-curricular programme spanning sport, music, drama and debate. Its ethos is supportive but ambitious — a balance that attracts academically able, curious girls from across London.
Entry Points at South Hampstead High
South Hampstead High admits pupils at several stages, with the most competitive being:
- 4+ (Reception)
- 7+ (Year 3)
- 11+ (Year 7) – the main external entry point
The majority of applicants join at 11+, when places are offered to girls demonstrating strong academic potential.
The 11+ Admissions Process
South Hampstead High School is part of the London 11+ Consortium, and all applicants are assessed through a shared admissions framework. The school considers three elements as part of every 11+ application.
1. The Consortium Exam
All applicants are invited to sit the London 11+ Consortium exam. The assessment consists of five timed modules, designed to identify academic potential and reasoning ability rather than learned content. These include:
- Mathematics
- Non-verbal reasoning
- Verbal reasoning
- Comprehension-style tasks
The format is time-limited and adaptive in style, rewarding focus, logical thinking and clarity under pressure. The same exam result can be used for applications to other consortium schools.
2. School Reference
In late November, South Hampstead High requests a reference from each applicant’s current school. This provides insight into a pupil’s academic progress, attitude to learning and social development, and forms an important part of the overall assessment.
3. Interview
In January, the school invites as many applicants as possible for an interview. This gives South Hampstead High the opportunity to meet candidates in person and assess communication skills, confidence, curiosity and overall suitability for the school.
While the written exam is shared across the consortium, interviews and final decisions are made independently by South Hampstead High School.
At Clarendon Tutors, we prepare pupils for both the London 11+ Consortium exam and the South Hampstead High interview, ensuring they are ready for each element of the process.
What South Hampstead High Looks For
Across the admissions process, South Hampstead High seeks girls who demonstrate:
- strong academic foundations
- curiosity and independence
- confidence without over-coaching
- the ability to think and reason clearly
- a positive attitude to learning
The school values pupils who will contribute enthusiastically to both academic and wider school life.
How Clarendon Tutors Can Help
At Clarendon Tutors, we offer bespoke preparation for South Hampstead High admissions, including:
- 11+ English and maths tutoring
- targeted reasoning practice
- exam-style questions and timed work
- interview preparation focused on confidence and communication
- clear guidance for parents throughout the process
Our tutors understand the expectations of GDST schools and help pupils develop both academic skill and self-assurance.
Securing a place at South Hampstead High School is a significant achievement. With thoughtful preparation and expert support, pupils can approach the 11+ assessments feeling confident, capable and ready to succeed.
At Clarendon Tutors, we guide families through every stage of the admissions journey — calmly, strategically and with a deep understanding of what schools like South Hampstead High value most.
Photograph by Asteuartw (CC-BY)
