The Complete Guide to The Leys School, Cambridge

Located in Cambridge, The Leys School is an independent co-educational boarding and day school for pupils aged 11 to 18. Positioned close to the University of Cambridge, The Leys offers strong academic rigour, state-of-the-art STEM and arts facilities, and a supportive boarding community. Main entry points take place at 11+ (Year 7) and 13+ (Year 9).

11+ (Year 7) Admissions Process

Candidates applying for Year 7 register during Year 5 or early Year 6:

• Entrance Examinations (January, Year 6): Candidates sit paper-based assessments in English, Mathematics, and Verbal Reasoning.

• Creative & Analytical Writing: Tests extended writing fluency, vocabulary range, and structural control.

• 1-to-1 Interview: Candidates take part in an interview assessing academic curiosity, co-curricular interests, and boarding or day enthusiasm.

13+ (Year 9) Admissions Process

Year 9 is the primary boarding entry point, evaluating candidates via a multi-stage process:

• Stage 1 (Autumn, Year 6): Candidates complete the adaptive ISEB Common Pre-Test at their current school, accompanied by a confidential headteacher reference.

• Stage 2 (Spring, Year 6): Shortlisted pupils visit The Leys for academic interviews and group problem-solving exercises. Conditional offers are confirmed via Year 8 Common Entrance or internal assessments.

How Exceptional Academics Helps

Exceptional Academics pairs young learners with specialist tutors to excel in written entrance papers, online pre-tests, and academic interviews for The Leys School. Email us at: info@exceptionalacademics.com today!