Author name: Firoz Jetha

What Are Imperative Words? Imperative Verbs and Grammar Rules

If you’ve ever said, “Put that down!” or “Don’t touch that!”, congratulations—you’ve already mastered the art of imperative verbs. These are the action-packed words that make instructions, commands and advice possible. Whether you’re asking politely or shouting from across the room, imperative words are working hard to make your message clear.

In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about imperative verbs. We’ll explain what they are, how to identify them, common examples, rules and how to teach imperatives to kids. By the end, you’ll not only understand them better, but have the tools to help your child tackle them with confidence.

So let’s get started. Or should we say, “start now!”.

What are imperative words?

Imperative words, also known as imperative verbs, are action words used to give commands, instructions or advice. They’re like the bosses of the verb family—direct, authoritative and always ready to get straight to the point. What makes imperative verbs special is they don’t bother with a subject like “I” or “you.” Instead, the subject is implied. 

So, what does this mean in practice? Let’s start with a few examples.

  • “Stop talking.”
  • “Turn left.”
  • “Be careful.”

In these examples, the verb (“stop,” “turn,” “be”) takes centre stage, while the subject (“you”) is quietly understood. These words can be firm or gentle, depending on your tone—but either way, they’re all about action.

Imperatives often appear on verbal reasoning and comprehension sections of grammar school and private school entrance exams, as well as SATs and later GCSE and A Level English. So whatever Key Stage your child is at, they’re important to know about.

What are five examples of imperatives?

Here are five examples of imperative sentences you’ve probably used (or heard) before:

  1. “Close the door.”
  2. “Pay attention.”
  3. “Don’t touch that.”
  4. “Stand still.”
  5. “Write your name here.”

Notice how these sentences start with a verb and jump straight into action. There’s no time wasted on fluff or niceties—imperative sentences are great at getting straight to the point.

That said, you can include additional words to “soften” imperative sentences. For instance, these examples are still imperatives even though they’re more polite.

  • “Please pass me the salt.”
  • “Kindly take a seat.”
  • “Do help yourself to some cake.”
  • “If you don’t mind, lower your voice a little.”

How do you identify an imperative sentence?

The good news is imperative sentences are some of the easiest to recognise in English. They’re the ones telling someone to do something, whether it’s a command, request, instruction or advice. Unlike other sentences, they don’t need a clear subject because it’s understood to be “you.” This makes them easy to spot once you know what to look for.

Here are some key features to help you identify imperative sentences:

  • Look for a verb at the start: Imperative sentences usually begin with an action word (verb). If the verb isn’t right at the beginning, it’s usually near the start of the sentence.
  • Check for implied subjects: If there’s no explicit mention of “I” or “you” but it’s clear the sentence is directed at someone, it’s often an imperative.
  • Notice the tone: Imperative sentences can sound firm, instructional, polite or encouraging, depending on how they’re phrased.
  • Check the punctuation: Most imperative sentences end with a full stop, but when urgency or strong emotion is needed, they can end with an exclamation mark (e.g., “Run!” or “Watch out!”).

For more help with English spelling and grammar topics, don’t miss our guides to fronted adverbials, homophones, subordinate clauses and connectives.

What are ten examples of an imperative sentence?

Imperative sentences come in different forms, depending on the situation. While they all tell someone to do something, they can vary in tone and purpose. Broadly speaking, imperative sentences fall into five main categories:

  • Commands: Giving direct orders, often firm and authoritative. (“Sit down immediately.”). They might also be inspirational (“Vote Now!”)—often used in speech writing.
  • Requests: Asking someone to do something politely. (“Please open the window.”)
  • Advice: Offering guidance or recommendations. (“Drink plenty of water.”)
  • Suggestions: Encouraging an action without forcing it. (“Try adding some lemon—it’ll taste better.”)
  • Instructions: Providing step-by-step guidance. (“Turn left at the next junction.”)

Learning to identify the different types of imperatives—commands, requests, advice, suggestions and instructions—makes communication clearer and more effective. This is especially helpful when teaching children to follow directions or understand tone in writing.

Here are ten imperative sentence examples—can you work-out which type each one is? This is a great exercise if you’re helping your child understand different sentence types:

  1. “Stop making that noise.”
  2. “Please help me carry these bags.”
  3. “Take a break if you’re feeling tired.”
  4. “Visit the new café in town!”
  5. “Preheat the oven to 180 degrees.”
  6. “Close the door behind you.”
  7. “Kindly send me the report by noon.”
  8. “Walk instead of driving—it’s healthier.”
  9. “Try reading before bed to relax.”
  10. “Press the red button to start.”

What’s the difference between verbs and imperative verbs?

To understand imperative verbs, it helps to know what regular verbs are. Verbs are action words that describe what someone or something is doing, thinking or being. For example:

  • Action verbs: run, jump, eat.
  • State verbs: think, believe, know.

Imperative verbs are a special type of verb used to give instructions or commands. What sets them apart is:

  1. They always appear in their base form (e.g., “sit” instead of “sitting”).
  2. Unlike most sentences that follow a Subject-Verb-Object pattern, they don’t need a subject because the subject is implied (e.g., “Sit down” means “You sit down”).

Think of it this way: regular verbs describe an action, but imperative verbs demand the action happens right now.

What are imperative verbs for kids?

When teaching kids about imperative verbs (whether homeschooling or helping with homework), keep things clear, engaging and interactive. You can explain that these are “bossy words”—verbs that give commands, instructions or requests. Since children love feeling like they’re in charge, encourage them to think of themselves as the “boss” when using these words!

Here are some examples children will easily recognise:

  • “Run!”
  • “Stop!”
  • “Draw a picture.”
  • “Pick up your toys.”
  • “Share with your friend.”

Imperative verbs aren’t just used for giving strict orders—they can also be friendly suggestions (“Have fun!”), polite requests (“Please pass the ball”) or instructions (“Mix the flour and eggs”). Combined with powerful adjectives, ambitious vocabulary, engaging character descriptions and a wide range of reading, they can help children improve their creative writing and mix-up their sentence structure.

A great way to teach imperative verbs is through movement. By using actions, children can see how these words create an immediate response, making them easier to understand. Try turning it into a game:

  • Give your child a list of imperative verbs and have them act out each one.
  • Play “Simon Says” using only imperative verbs (“Simon says jump!”).
  • Encourage them to give commands to a toy or a pet (“Sit, teddy!”).
  • Once you’ve mastered this, can they spot them in everyday writing? For instance, instructions in a recipe or school homework.

What’s an example of an imperative verb?

When explaining imperative verbs to kids, it’s helpful to show how they change the meaning of a sentence. For example, take the verb “jump.”

  • Regular verb: “She jumps over the puddle.” (Describes what someone is doing.)
  • Imperative verb: “Jump over the puddle!” (Gives a direct command.)

See the difference? The imperative form drops the subject (“she”) and starts with the verb, making it more direct and action-focused.

Here’s another example:

  • Regular verb: “He writes a letter.”
  • Imperative verb: “Write a letter to Grandma.”

This works because imperative verbs tell someone exactly what to do, without needing “I,” “you,” or “he/she” at the beginning.

Teaching kids this small but powerful change can help them understand how verbs work in different ways—and make learning grammar much more fun. It’s an important part of Year 2 and Year 6 SATs preparation, as well as a common theme in 11+ English exams. In secondary school, you’ll also find questions relating to imperatives crop up in Year 7 CATs and even GCSE and A Level English Language and Literature. So they really are important!

What are the rules for imperative words?

Now we’ve explored imperative verbs and how to teach them, here are the final rules to remember. While imperative words might seem simple, they follow specific patterns that make them effective for giving commands, instructions and requests.

Here’s what you need to know:

  1. Use the base form: Always use the verb in its simplest form—no -ing or -ed endings. For example, say “Walk to the door,” not “Walking to the door” or “Walked to the door.”
  2. No subject needed: The subject (“you”) is understood, so it’s normally left out. Instead of “You pick up your toys,” it’s “Pick up your toys.”
  3. Be direct and concise: Imperatives get straight to the point. Rather than asking “Can you open the window?”, an imperative form would be “Open the window.”
  4. Can be negative: Use “don’t” to turn an imperative into a negative command. For example, “Don’t run in the hallways.”
  5. Different tones for different situations: Imperatives can sound firm (“Stop talking.”), polite (“Please take a seat.”), or encouraging (“Have a great day!”).

Does your child need help with English?

Imperative verbs are a key part of clear and confident communication. Whether your child is working on grammar homework, learning how to express themselves or just having fun with language, mastering these “bossy words” can make a big difference.

At Achieve Learning, we support students at every stage—from Year 2 and Year 6 SATs, 11+ preparation and GCSE English tuition to reading and library support. With expert guidance and personalised lessons, we help your child build strong language skills that set them up for success. Get in touch today to see how we can help!

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The Most Expensive Private Schools in the UK: A Guide to Fees

Private schools in the UK are associated with academic excellence, enviable facilities, centuries of tradition, and endless extracurricular opportunities for students. And for good reason—they really are world-class! 

However, all of this comes with a hefty price tag, which leaves many parents wondering: is private school worth it? If you’re curious about private school fees, the most prestigious (and expensive) schools, or how families afford this kind of education, we’ve got all the details you need. Whether you’re just exploring the idea or seriously considering private education for your child, let’s dive in.

What’s the most expensive private school in the UK?

The title of the most expensive private school in the UK belongs to Brighton College. Full boarding fees for sixth-form students start at £55,470 per year. Known for its academic achievements and holistic educational philosophy, Brighton College offers a wide-ranging curriculum, top-tier sports facilities and a creative arts program that’s hard to rival.

If you’re wondering whether it’s all worth it, Brighton College’s hefty price tag comes with some serious recognition. It recently pulled off a rare feat, winning three top awards in The Sunday Times Parent Power Schools Guide: UK Boarding School of the Year 2025, Top School for A-levels 2025, and Top Academic School in South East England 2025. On top of that, it was previously named UK School of the Decade—the only school to ever earn that title.

So, how does Brighton College compare with other top private schools? Let’s start with Eton.

How much is Eton per year?

To put Brighton College’s fees in perspective, Eton College charges around £52,749 a year. While these fees are very similar, it’s important to note that—like all private schools—Eton’s fees are now subject to VAT (from January 2025), meaning an increase of 20% on top of the listed fee.

Although Eton isn’t the most expensive UK private school, its prestige is unmatched. Eton’s fees reflect not only its historical significance, but the school’s ongoing commitment to world-class education.

What’s the most prestigious private school in the UK?

When it comes to prestige, Eton College is considered the gold standard. So why is Eton held in such high regard?

Located in Windsor—just a short journey from London—Eton has educated boys since 1440. The school boasts a reputation for excellent exam results and has produced some of the most influential figures in British history. Its illustrious alumni include Prince William and Prince Harry, former Prime Ministers Boris Johnson and David Cameron, and celebrated writers such as George Orwell.

Eton’s prestige isn’t just a matter of tradition; it’s backed by outstanding resources and a commitment to nurturing leadership, creativity and academic excellence. 

For other nearby schools, don’t miss our guide to the best London private schools as well as sixth-forms and the top ten state secondaries in the capital.

Why is Eton so expensive?

Quite simply, Eton’s fees reflect the incredible resources, faculty, support systems and heritage the school provides. Every aspect of Eton is designed to uphold excellence in education, summed up in their motto Floreat Etona which translates as “May Eton Flourish”. Its fees are a direct investment in maintaining that standard. 

Here are some key reasons behind the cost:

  • Historic buildings and facilities: Eton’s campus is home to centuries-old architecture alongside modern facilities, including a pristine rowing lake, expansive sports fields, impressive tech-labs and even a dedicated museum.
  • Top-tier faculty: The school invests heavily in recruiting and retaining high-calibre teaching staff who bring expertise and passion to their subjects.
  • Extracurricular excellence: From music and drama to sports and debating, Eton offers a vast array of extracurricular activities that foster all-round development.
  • Specialist support systems: With robust pastoral care, career guidance and enrichment programmes, every aspect of a student’s development is supported.
  • Alumni network: The extensive and influential alumni network (the Old Etonian Association) provides current students with exceptional networking and mentoring opportunities.

Is Eton boys-only?

Yes, Eton is exclusively for boys aged 13 to 18. 

While Eton remains a boys-only school, families looking for an equivalent level of prestige and tradition for girls have excellent alternatives such as Cheltenham Ladies’ College or Wycombe Abbey. If you’re exploring options, here are the best boarding schools in the UK (ranked by the Top Schools Guide) for girls and boys:

Top Boarding Schools for Girls:

  • Wycombe Abbey School
  • St Mary’s School Ascot
  • Benenden School
  • Cheltenham Ladies’ College
  • St Swithun’s School

Top Boarding Schools for Boys:

  • St Paul’s School
  • Tonbridge School
  • Abingdon School
  • Radley College
  • Dulwich College

How much are annual school fees in the UK?

If £55,000+ per year sounds eye-watering, you’ll be relieved to hear that most private schools in the UK are much more affordable—relatively speaking! As of 2024, the average annual fee for private schools in the UK was £18,063. This was a noticeable increase from £16,656 in 2023, and with the addition of VAT, fees will only rise further in 2025.

Here’s a breakdown of private school fees:

  • Day Schools: Typically costing between £12,000 and £20,000 per year. Primary schools (ages 4+) are likely to be at the cheaper end of the spectrum, while secondary schooling (ages 11+) increases in cost.
  • Boarding Schools: Fees can easily rise to £40,000 or more annually, depending on the school and the facilities provided. As we’ve seen, it’s not uncommon for the most prestigious schools to charge £50,000 or more.

Remember that fees don’t include additional expenses such as school trips, uniforms, music lessons or exam fees. These “hidden costs” can quickly add up, so it’s important for families to budget carefully.

What percentage of UK children go to fee-paying schools?

Out of the 8.8 million school-age children in the UK, approximately 615,000 attend private (independent) schools—about 7% of the population. This relatively small percentage underscores the exclusivity of private education.

It’s important to note that private schools aren’t exclusively for the ultra-wealthy. Many families make significant financial sacrifices to send their children to these schools, and a substantial number of students benefit from scholarships or bursaries to manage the costs.

How do parents afford private school in the UK?

Private school fees can seem daunting, but there are several ways parents make this type of education more accessible. This includes scholarships and bursaries, as well as educational loans, savings and family contributions. Each school’s approach to financial assistance varies, so check the individual school’s website or contact their admissions office for specific information.

Some routes for funding private schooling include:

  • Scholarships: Many UK private schools offer scholarships that cover a portion of the fees. These awards are typically based on excellence in academics, music, sports or other special talents. They are highly competitive and sometimes cover a significant percentage of the fees.
  • Bursaries: Bursaries are means-tested financial awards that assist families who may not be able to afford the full fee. The exact amount and eligibility criteria vary by school, with details usually available on the school’s fees or admissions page.
  • Educational loans: Some families take out loans specifically designed to cover school fees. These loans can offer flexible repayment plans, though it’s important to consider interest rates and long-term financial commitments.
  • Long-term savings: Many parents save for their child’s education years in advance. Dedicated savings accounts, such as Junior ISAs or specific educational savings plans, help mitigate the financial burden over time.
  • Family contributions: Some families receive financial support from relatives, such as grandparents. Gifts and inheritance often play a role in funding private education.
  • Payment plans: Some schools offer flexible payment options, allowing fees to be spread out over the academic year rather than a large upfront payment.

What’s the hardest private school to get into in the UK?

Among the many private schools in the UK, Westminster School is often regarded as the most challenging to gain admission. Located in central London, Westminster is renowned for its exceptional academic standards and consistently high rates of Oxbridge admissions.

Gaining a place at Westminster involves excelling in several areas:

  • Entrance exams: Students undergo rigorous assessments in core subjects like English and Maths.
  • Interviews: These help gauge a candidate’s personality, interests and fit with the school’s ethos.
  • Additional assessments: Depending on the student’s chosen focus, there may be extra evaluations in areas like music or sports.

As a result, it’s not uncommon for families to prepare their children years in advance for the demanding selection process. Other schools with similarly tough admissions include:

  • St Paul’s Boys’ and Girls’ Schools: Two leading London institutions, known for their rigorous academic environment and outstanding results.
  • Winchester College: Alongside other ancient institutions like Harrow School, Winchester is one of the oldest and most prestigious (as well as competitive) schools in the UK.
  • Eton College: While its admissions process is highly competitive, Eton’s focus on tradition combined with innovation sets it apart.
  • The Godolphin and Latymer School: Another famed London school, where academics and pastoral support go hand in hand.

Keep in mind that whether you’re applying to a day school or boarding school, competition is fierce. Most schools use some form of 11+ entrance exam (including papers like Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning), often working with leading national providers like GL Assessment. With thousands of applicants vying for just a limited number of places, it’s essential to check each school’s admissions policies and prepare accordingly.

Are private schools better than public schools in the UK?

Given the high costs involved, many parents wonder: are private schools better than state schools? The answer isn’t black and white—it largely depends on what you’re looking for in an education.

The choice depends on your family’s financial situation, available scholarship or bursaries, and the educational offerings in your area. For instance, in counties like Gloucestershire, Kent and Buckinghamshire where leading grammar schools are plentiful, many parents prefer them over private schools. In contrast, in areas where high-performing state schools are scarce, a private school might be the best option.

Some of the advantages of private schools include:

  • Academic results: Private schools consistently rank higher in league tables, in part due to selective admissions and smaller class sizes.
  • Individual attention: Fewer students per teacher means pupils receive tailored support and guidance.
  • Higher education: With excellent results and personalised teaching, private schools pride themselves on securing entrance to top Russell Group and non-Russell Group universities.
  • Extracurricular opportunities: Private schools offer a broad range of extracurricular activities—from sports and music to drama and debate—fostering well-rounded development.

But don’t ignore state schools either! Here are a few reasons why a state (either grammar or comprehensive) education might be the perfect solution for your family.

  • Excellent results: Many state schools, especially top grammar schools, achieve outstanding academic results—similar (if not better than) their private counterparts.
  • No fees: Funded by the government, state schools relieve families of significant financial burdens.
  • Diverse environments: State schools often reflect a broader spectrum of society, offering children exposure to different backgrounds and perspectives. They often have a wide catchment area, providing access to a diverse group of families.
  • Specialist programs: Many state schools have specialist statuses in areas such as languages, science or the arts, providing targeted excellence in certain subjects. You’ll still find a challenging and engaging curriculum at most state schools.

Final thoughts: why do parents choose private schools in the UK?

Whenever parents are asked why they opt for private education, several themes emerge. Families are often drawn to smaller class sizes, ensuring their children’s unique needs are met. Private school’s exemplary facilities and extracurricular facilities are also popular, alongside the networking opportunities and connections forged at prestigious educations—which can open doors to lucrative and rewarding careers.

Ultimately, every family’s decision is unique. For some, it’s about securing the best academic results; for others, it’s about providing a nurturing environment that allows children to thrive in extracurricular pursuits. However, with costs that can be daunting, it’s crucial to ensure the investment aligns with your family’s values and long-term goals.

If you’re considering private education and need support with 11+ entrance exams or more general academic coaching, Achieve Learning is here to help. Get in touch with our expert tutors today and take the first step toward unlocking your child’s full potential.

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Devon Grammar Schools: Your Complete List and 11+ Guide

Grammar schools offer a fantastic opportunity for students to access a selective, high-quality education. But if you’re new to secondary education, the admissions process can feel like a mystery. 

In Devon, you won’t find grammar schools evenly spread throughout the county. There are only seven grammars and one partially-selective school, mostly located around Plymouth and Torbay. As a result, competition for places is intense. So, how can you and your child best prepare? 

In this guide, we’ll break it all down. You’ll find an introduction to each Devon grammar school, an explanation of the 11+ exam format and pass marks, as well as which schools face the most competition—helping you make secondary choices with confidence.

How many grammar schools are there in Devon?

Devon has seven grammar schools and one partially-selective school. Unlike counties such as Kent or Buckinghamshire, where grammars are more widespread, Devon’s selection is smaller and mostly concentrated in Plymouth and Torbay. However, these schools are some of the finest in the country, with a history of academic excellence, strong community ties and impressive facilities. 

Here’s a complete list of Devon’s grammar schools:

1. Colyton Grammar School

  • Location: Whitwell Lane, Colyford, Colyton, EX24 6HN
  • Size: Around 1,000 pupils
  • Pupils: Mixed, ages 11–18

Nestled in the picturesque village of Colyford near the East Devon coast, Colyton Grammar School consistently ranks as one of the top-performing schools in the UK. With a history dating back to 1546, this school is steeped in tradition while embracing modern education.

Established for the “goodly and virtuous education of children”, Colyton Grammar boasts state-of-the-art science labs and an impressive track record in national competitions such as the UK Maths Challenge and Olympiads. Beyond excellent academics, it fosters a supportive, tight-knit community, offering students fantastic opportunities in music, drama and sports.

2. Devonport High School for Boys

  • Location: Paradise Road, Stoke, Plymouth, PL1 5QP
  • Size: Approximately 1,200 pupils
  • Pupils: Boys, with a mixed sixth form

Devonport High School for Boys is renowned for rigorous academic standards and producing well-rounded individuals. Established in 1896, the school prides itself on nurturing talent across all fields, from science and technology to the arts. Its excellent facilities, including a dedicated sports centre, ensure a well-balanced education.

The school has a disciplined ethos with the simple vision that “Everyone Succeeds”. Although it’s all boys for Year 7 to 11, Devonport’s mixed sixth-form helps students transition into careers or higher education.

3. Devonport High School for Girls

  • Location: Lyndhurst Road, Peverell, Plymouth, PL2 3DL
  • Size: Approximately 850 pupils
  • Pupils: Girls, with a mixed sixth form

Just a short distance from its boys’ counterpart, Devonport High School for Girls boasts an impressive reputation for academic achievement. Founded in 1908, the school has remained a cornerstone of education for girls in Plymouth.

Describing themselves as a “21st-century grammar school”, Devonport High for Girls combines academic rigour with a supportive pastoral environment. It’s celebrated for its extracurricular offerings, including a vibrant music and drama scene and successful sports teams. Like the boy’s equivalent, Devonport’s mixed-sixth form ensures students are well-prepared for top universities.

4. Plymouth High School for Girls

  • Location: St Lawrence Road, Plymouth, PL4 6HT
  • Size: Around 800 pupils
  • Pupils: Girls, with a mixed sixth-form

Plymouth High School for Girls is another leading grammar school in the city, known for its welcoming atmosphere and focus on holistic development. Founded in 1874, it has a proud legacy of empowering young women to excel academically and personally.

The school offers a range of extracurricular activities, including a thriving debate society, environmental initiatives and creative arts programs. Needless to say, its academic performance is also consistently strong. In 2024, 92% of students achieved grades 9-5 at GCSE, with a 98% A Level pass rate.

5. Torquay Boys’ Grammar School

  • Location: Shiphay Manor Drive, Torquay, TQ2 7EL
  • Size: Approximately 1,100 pupils
  • Pupils: Boys, with a mixed sixth form

Torquay Boys’ Grammar School is known for its outstanding academic results and strong emphasis on student wellbeing. As described by Ofsted, the school’s “drive for academic achievement” is balanced by a “deep commitment to students’ wider personal and social development.” 

Established in 1904, Torquay Boys’ Grammar excels in sports, with competitive teams in rugby, cricket and athletics, as well as a thriving music and drama program. Its commitment to developing the “whole person” ensures students leave as well-rounded individuals ready to make their mark.

6. Torquay Girls’ Grammar School

  • Location: 30 Shiphay Lane, Torquay, TQ2 7DY
  • Size: Around 1,000 pupils
  • Pupils: Girls, with a mixed sixth form

Like its boys’ counterpart, Torquay Girls’ Grammar School is known for its supportive environment and academic excellence. Established in 1915, the school has a long-standing tradition of empowering young women to achieve their full potential.

Ofsted rated the school as “outstanding” in all areas. Indeed, their academic results place them among the top schools in the country for both attainment and progress. Nonetheless, the school describes their essence as a “way of thinking”—helping students achieve “absolutely anything”.

7. Churston Ferrers Grammar School

  • Location: Greenway Road, Churston Ferrers, Brixham, TQ5 0LN
  • Size: Approximately 1,000 pupils
  • Pupils: Mixed school, ages 11–18

Churston Ferrers Grammar School is a co-educational institution in the charming town of Brixham. Known for its inclusive and creative ethos (as well as an excellent academic record), the school provides a vibrant learning environment where students thrive.

At Churston Ferrers, teachers place great importance on imagination and innovation. The school boasts exceptional facilities for arts and technology, as well as a range of extracurricular activities, from theatre to sports clubs. This community-focused approach makes it a standout choice for creative families in Torbay.

8. The Spires College

  • Location: Westlands Lane, Torquay, TQ1 3PE
  • Size: Around 1,150 pupils
  • Pupils: Mixed school, ages 11–18

The Spires College offers a modern and innovative approach to learning, with a strong emphasis on preparing students for present-day challenges. Its “welcoming and warm” environment and focus on personal development make it a great choice for students who value both academic achievement and community involvement.

Parents should note: The Spires College is only partially-selective. This means they accept 60 students into Year 7 based on their academic performance in 11+ exams. Even if your child doesn’t pass the 11+, they may still be eligible under the school’s other admissions criteria.

If you’re interested in grammar schools further afield, don’t miss our round-up of the best grammars in London and the whole UK.

What’s the exam format for the 11+ in Devon?

Navigating the 11+ in Devon can be tricky due to the variation in exam formats and admissions criteria across different schools. Each area—Colyton, Torbay and Plymouth—has its own approach and deadlines. So it’s important to understand how the tests work. 

Here’s a breakdown.

Colyton Grammar School: 11+ Exam Format

Colyton Grammar uses the Future Stories Community Enterprise (FSCE) Year 7 Entrance Test, tailored to align with the KS2 National Curriculum in Maths and English. The exam is thorough, lasting approximately 3 hours with breaks.

This includes:

  • Paper 1: English/Maths (50 minutes, multiple-choice)
  • Paper 2: English/Maths (40 minutes, free-response)
  • Paper 3: Writing (25 minutes)

What’s the pass mark for the Colyton Grammar 11 Plus?

Colyton Grammar doesn’t set a fixed 11+ pass mark. Scores are standardised according to each child’s age, meaning younger applicants receive adjustments to level the playing field. Applicants are then ranked by their test scores. Year 7 places are awarded to the highest scorers alongside the school’s other admissions criteria.

Torbay Grammar Schools: 11+ Exam Format

The grammar schools in Torbay, including Churston Ferrers, follow a simpler 11+ format. They use two tests designed to assess English and Maths skills, both of which are multiple-choice. These tests are created by GL Assessment, who publish free familiarisation materials and sample paper bundles

This includes:

  • Paper 1: English (50 minutes, multiple-choice)
  • Paper 2: Maths (50 minutes, multiple-choice)

What’s the pass mark for the Torbay 11 Plus?

Similar to Colyton, Torbay grammar schools do not have a fixed pass mark. Students are ranked based on their test performance, and places are offered to the highest 11+ scores (alongside other admissions criteria). The effective “pass mark” varies each year depending on the number of applicants and their overall performance.

Plymouth Grammar Schools: 11+ Exam Format

The grammar schools in Plymouth—including Devonport High School for Boys, Devonport High School for Girls, and Plymouth High School for Girls—also have unique admissions criteria and test structures. The 11+ exams in Plymouth are primarily based on GL Assessment papers, with some variations depending on the school.

Devonport High School for Boys:

  • English reading: GL Assessment (60 minutes, multiple-choice)
  • Maths: GL Assessment (40 minutes, multiple-choice)
  • English writing: School-specific paper

Devonport High School for Girls and Plymouth High School for Girls:

  • English comprehension: GL Assessment, 45 minutes, multiple-choice (64 questions in 2024)
  • Maths: GL Assessment, 50 minutes, multiple-choice (50 questions in 2024)

Familiarisation materials are available from the respective school websites.

What’s the pass mark for the 11 Plus in Plymouth?

For Plymouth High School for Girls and Devonport High School for Girls, places are offered to the top 278 ranked students listing these grammar schools as their first or second choice. If your child ranks outside the top 278, there’s still a chance they could secure a place if higher-ranked students decline their offers.

For Devonport High School for Boys, there’s no fixed pass mark as it changes each year based on results. However, to be eligible for a place, your child needs to score in the top 180 11+ candidates. Places are then allocated based on overall ranking. 

Whichever Devon grammar you’re applying to, 80% or more in 11+ exams is a good benchmark to aim for. To help your child prepare, explore our guides to 11+ reading lists, powerful adjectives, SPaG and ambitious vocabulary.

What percentage of children get into grammar schools in Devon?

Unfortunately, there isn’t precise information on the percentage of children gaining entry to Devon grammar schools. However, across the country, about 5% of secondary-age children attend grammar schools. Around 100,000 children sit 11+ exams each year, competing for places at 163 schools.

Of Devon’s seven grammar schools (and one partially-selective school), it’s likely that between 30-40% of children taking the 11+ exam secure a place. But this number changes from year to year, as well as between schools.

How hard is it to get into Colyton Grammar?

Like all grammars in Devon, getting into Colyton Grammar School is challenging. We know that in 2023, 388 students sat the 11+ exam for Colyton Grammar School. Out of these students, 193 achieved an “eligible score”. In total, 232 pupils applied for Year 7 entry, competing for 160 places. This means that out of all those who sat the 11+ exam, about 40% secured a place.

Parents should also know that Colyton Grammar doesn’t have a catchment area (although in the event of a tie-break, they prioritise pupils with the closest postcode). This means children are welcome to apply from all over the country—with the highest-scoring applicants securing a place. As a result, many parents invest in 11+ tuition to help their child prepare.

Which are the hardest grammar schools to get into in Devon?

As we’ve seen, Colyton Grammar is one of the most challenging Devon grammars to get into. It’s particularly competitive due to its impressive academic results, attracting applicants from across the South West and beyond.

That said, Torquay Boys’ and Girls’ Grammar Schools and Churston Ferrers are also highly sought after. These schools consistently attract hundreds of applicants from their surrounding areas. 

In terms of preferences for places alone, here are the latest statistics:

While these figures may seem modest, they highlight the fierce competition for each school, with only students meeting the required qualifying score likely to apply.

Does Exeter have a grammar school?

Surprisingly, Exeter does not have a grammar school. For families living in Exeter, this can be disappointing—especially as Exeter is the largest city in Devon and home to a world-class university.

The nearest grammar schools to Exeter are either Colyton Grammar (about 28 miles, or a 45-minute drive) and the two Torquay Grammars (about 25 miles, also roughly 45 minutes drive).

If you’re based in Exeter, it’s worth researching each Grammar School’s admissions policy, paying close attention to catchment areas. All Devon grammar schools apart from Colyton Grammar prioritise students living within the local vicinity.

Thinking about Devon grammar schools for your child?

While Devon doesn’t have as many grammar schools as some other areas, the schools it does have are exceptional, offering children access to a fantastic education. Whether you’re considering Colyton, Plymouth or Torbay, understanding the admissions process, pass marks and competition is crucial to helping your child succeed.

If you’d like support navigating the 11+ process, we’re here to help. At Achieve Learning, we specialise in preparing students for the unique challenges of grammar school, offering tailored tuition (starting at Year 4 and Year 5), academic consultancy and mock exams. Contact us today to give your child the best chance of success.

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What’s the Difference Between Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning?

If your child is getting ready for 11+ exams, you’ve probably heard about verbal and non-verbal reasoning. These two areas are a core part of 11+ preparation and are designed to test skills beyond what’s covered in the classroom. But these types of reasoning questions aren’t limited to grammar school 11 Plus exams. They also appear in exams like SATs, Year 7 CATs and independent school entrance tests. 

So, what’s the difference between verbal reasoning and non-verbal reasoning? 

At first glance, the names seem to explain it—one is based on words, and the other isn’t—but there’s much more to it than that. Understanding how these skills are tested, the various question types and why they matter is key to helping your child prepare effectively. 

What’s the difference between verbal and non-verbal reasoning?

The difference between verbal and non-verbal reasoning lies in what these tests measure. Verbal reasoning is about words, language and logical thinking with language. On the other hand, non-verbal reasoning focuses on shapes, patterns and visual logic. Both test students’ reasoning skills, but they’re designed to assess different parts of the brain.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Verbal Reasoning: Tests your child’s ability to work with language. This might include vocabulary, grammar and problem-solving with words and numbers. Verbal reasoning often draws on skills your child is already developing through reading and writing in KS2 English lessons. 
  • Non-Verbal Reasoning: Measures problem-solving skills using visual clues like shapes, patterns, sequences and spatial awareness. Non-verbal reasoning can feel trickier for many students, as it involves abstract visual and spatial thinking. These types of questions aren’t typically covered during KS2 school learning.

Let’s explore verbal reasoning first.

What’s an example of verbal reasoning?

Verbal reasoning involves solving problems or answering questions using logic and language skills. 

Here’s an example:

  • Find the odd one out: apple, orange, banana, carrot.
  • The answer is carrot because it’s not a fruit. This type of question tests your child’s ability to categorise and spot relationships between words.

Some of the most common verbal reasoning question types include:

1. Synonyms and antonyms

Example: Which word is a synonym for “happy”?

  1. Angry
  2. Cheerful
  3. Sad
  4. Tired

Answer: B, “Cheerful.”

2. Coded sequences

  • Example: If A = 1, B = 2, and C = 3, what is the code for the word “CAB”?
  • Answer: 3, 1, 2.

3. Word analogies

  • Example: Cat is to kitten as dog is to…
  • Answer: Puppy.

4. Logic and deduction

  • Example: If all apples are fruits and all fruits grow on trees, are apples grown on trees?
  • Answer: Yes, because apples are fruits and all fruits grow on trees.

5. Missing letters or words (sentence completion)

  • Example: Complete the word: _ l _ p h a _ t
  • Answer: Elephant.

Questions like this test spelling, vocabulary and contextual thinking, as well as the ability to deduce the correct word from partial information.

What’s the most common verbal reasoning question?

Analogies and synonyms/antonyms are some of the most common verbal reasoning question types. These questions test a student’s vocabulary, logical thinking and ability to identify relationships between words—crucial skills for success at GCSE and A Level

They’re critical for interpreting texts, forming arguments and writing effectively—particularly helpful in subjects like English Literature, History and Law.

For example, analogy questions ask students to identify how two words are related and apply the same relationship to a new pair of words.

  • Example: Find the missing word: “Big is to small as tall is to…”
  • Answer: Short.

Another common question type is sentence completion, where your child must choose the best word to complete a sentence based on its context.

Example: He felt so tired that he could not ______ stay awake.

  1. Always
  2. Easily
  3. Barely
  4. Never

Answer: C, barely.

This type of question tests more than just vocabulary—it assesses a child’s ability to understand the context of the sentence and apply logical reasoning. Here, the word “so tired” provides a clue that the missing word must imply difficulty staying awake. A strong grasp of grammar and sentence structure helps children select the correct answer.

What’s an example of non-verbal reasoning?

Non-verbal reasoning is all about solving visual problems and understanding patterns, sequences and spatial relationships. While verbal reasoning measures how well children understand language, non-verbal reasoning evaluates their ability to process visual information, think abstractly and spot connections.

It’s a fundamental skill tested in grammar school 11+ exams and Year 7 CATs. You may also find some non-verbal reasoning elements in the Maths section of Year 6 SATs. These skills are essential for tackling unfamiliar challenges—useful in subjects like Maths, Chemistry and Economics (to name just a few!) at both GCSE and A Level.

Here’s an example:

  • Question: Which shape comes next in the sequence?
    • 🔺➡️⬛➡️🔺➡️⬛➡️
  • Answer:🔺, because the sequence alternates between a triangle and a square.

Here are some common types of non-verbal reasoning questions.

1. Odd one out

  • Example: Find the shape that doesn’t belong in the group.
    • ⚫️ ⬛ 🔺 ⚪️ 🔺
  • Answer: ⚪️, because it’s the only white shape.

2. Matrices

The task is to fill in the missing shape in the grid by identifying the pattern or rule that applies across the rows and columns. Take a look at the example below:

 

🔵 🔵🔵 🔵🔵🔵
🔺 🔺🔺 🔺🔺🔺
🟨 🟨🟨 ?

 

  • Question: What should replace the question mark (?) to complete the pattern in the grid?
  • Answer: 🟨🟨🟨 (three yellow squares).

3. 3D spatial awareness

These questions test your child’s ability to visualise shapes in their mind. For example, they might see the flat “net” of a cube and be asked which folded version matches it.

To solve this, your child needs to:

  • Imagine how the flat shape folds into a cube.
  • Check which faces align, such as which ones are opposite or next to each other.

This helps develop spatial awareness and problem-solving skills.

4. Sequence completion

Your child might be shown a sequence of shapes and asked to pick the one that comes next. 

For example:🔺 → 🔳 → ⬠ → ⬢ → ?

Each step adds one side to the shape:

  • 🔺 Triangle (3 sides)
  • 🔳 Square (4 sides)
  • ⬠ Pentagon (5 sides)
  • ⬢ Hexagon (6 sides)

Answer: The next shape is a heptagon (7 sides).

5. Shape analogies

Your child might need to work out the relationship between pairs of shapes. 

For example:

  • 🔺 → 🔻
  • ⬆️ → ?

In the first pair, the triangle is flipped upside down. Following the same logic, the upwards arrow would be flipped to point downwards.

Answer: ⬆️ → ⬇️

What’s the difference between non-verbal reasoning and logical reasoning?

Logical reasoning is a broader term that includes problem-solving in both verbal and non-verbal formats. Non-verbal reasoning focuses specifically on visual logic, like identifying patterns, sequences and spatial relationships.

So (at least as part of the secondary curriculum) you won’t find a “logical reasoning” test. But 11+ exams, SATs, Maths and English Language all rely on logical reasoning to some extent. 

A logical reasoning question might ask:

  • Question: If Sally is taller than Jack, and Jack is taller than Tom, who is the shortest? (Answer: Tom.)
  • Answer: Tom – this question relies on wider problem-solving skills.

A non-verbal reasoning question might ask: 

  • Question: Which 3D shape is created by folding this net?
  • Answer: The answer depends on the image presented, but it could be a cube (for example). – this question focuses specifically on visual logic.

What are the types of non-verbal reasoning?

Non-verbal reasoning questions fall into several main types, including pattern recognition, sequence completion, spatial awareness, “odd one out,” mirror images and matrices. These can broadly be grouped into two categories: patterns and sequences (focusing on identifying changes or trends) and spatial reasoning (visualising shapes and how they relate to each other).

How do you do non-verbal reasoning? Preparing for question types

Here’s how to prepare for each question type and help your child develop their skills.

1. Pattern recognition

Involves spotting repeating patterns, such as shapes getting larger, smaller or rotating.

  • Start small and build confidence: Teach your child to identify simple patterns, such as changes in size, colour or direction. Begin with straightforward examples before moving on to more complex ones.
  • Break it down into steps: Encourage your child to focus on one element at a time. For instance, ask questions like, “Is the shape flipping, rotating, or shrinking?” This step-by-step approach can help avoid overwhelm.

2. Sequence completion

Requires selecting the shape that completes a series of changes.

  • Look for logical trends: Guide your child to examine how shapes change from one step to the next. Are new elements being added? Are the shapes moving in a predictable order?
  • Encourage smart time management: Teach your child it’s okay to skip tricky questions and come back to them later. This helps them make the most of their time in an exam.

3. Mirrors and reflections

Focuses on identifying how a shape would look if flipped or reflected.

  • Practice with symmetry: Use hands-on activities like folding paper to show how reflections work. Drawing mirrored shapes or using symmetry games can also help reinforce this skill.
  • Practice little and often: Short, regular sessions are more effective (and less overwhelming) than long, infrequent ones.

4. Spatial awareness

Involves visualising how shapes fit together, rotate or combine.

  • Draw it out: For particularly challenging questions, encourage your child to sketch possible solutions on scrap paper. Seeing the shapes on paper can make the problem feel less abstract.
  • Build mental models: Fun activities like assembling 3D puzzles, playing with LEGO or experimenting with building blocks can develop spatial reasoning in a hands-on way.

5. Matching pairs

Finding two shapes that are identical, even if they’re rotated or presented in different colours.

  • Practice regularly: The more exposure your child has, the better they’ll become at recognising similarities and differences. Use workbooks, online resources and educational apps to keep practice varied and engaging.
  • Time practice sessions: Since non-verbal reasoning exams are often timed, practising under exam conditions can help your child improve their speed and accuracy.

As part of your preparations, celebrate small wins. Acknowledge your child’s efforts and progress, as confidence is key to tackling these problems. Establish a growth mindset by reminding your child it’s okay to make mistakes and that practice will help them improve.

Incorporating games, puzzles, and drawing exercises makes practice feel less like a chore. For example, mazes, Tangrams or strategy games naturally develop reasoning skills. By combining focused practice with playful activities, your child can approach non-verbal reasoning questions with a clear mind and growing confidence.

Why is non-verbal reasoning so hard?

Compared to verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning can feel difficult because it’s less familiar. While children encounter words and logic regularly in school, they’re less likely to practice spotting patterns, interpreting abstract sequences or mentally rotating shapes. Some children also find it challenging to work without the context and structure that language provides.

Challenging areas include:

  • Spatial awareness: Many children struggle with mentally rotating shapes or understanding how objects relate to each other in space. To help, encourage activities like jigsaw puzzles, LEGO building, or games that involve shape-matching and construction.
  • Pattern recognition: Identifying patterns in sequences of shapes or symbols can be tricky. Try playing games like “Spot the Difference” or creating sequences with toys for your child to continue.
  • Abstract reasoning: Understanding connections between unrelated shapes or concepts is a skill that develops with practice. Brain-teasing games like Tangrams, Sudoku or simple strategy games build this skill in a fun way.

The key to improving non-verbal reasoning skills is regular practice and exposure. Start with easier tasks to build confidence, then gradually introduce more challenging problems. Incorporate fun activities that naturally encourage non-verbal reasoning, such as drawing, playing with mazes or solving puzzles.

And remember, progress takes time, so celebrate small wins and keep the atmosphere positive!

Ready to boost your child’s confidence and skills?

Understanding the difference between verbal and non-verbal reasoning is the first step to helping your child prepare for exams like the 11+. With regular practice, the right techniques and plenty of encouragement, your child can master both types of reasoning. 

We know that preparing for reasoning tests can feel like a challenge. But that’s where we come in! Whether you need expert guidance, personalised 11+ tuition or practice with mock exams, our team of expert tutors is here to help every step of the way. Contact us today to help your child master verbal and non-verbal reasoning with ease.

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Grammar Schools in Sutton: A Complete Guide for Parents

Choosing a school for your child is one of the most significant decisions a family can make. Luckily, Sutton is home to some of the most prestigious grammar schools in the UK

These schools are celebrated not just for their academic rigour but also their supportive environments and wide range of extracurricular activities. They don’t just focus on exam results—they help students grow into confident, well-rounded individuals ready to tackle whatever life throws their way.

In this guide, we’ll explore Sutton’s six grammar schools, their rankings and reputation, as well as everything you need to know about the Sutton 11 Plus format and deadlines. We’ll end with a special focus on Sutton Grammar School—one of the most popular and competitive schools in the borough.

How many grammar schools are there in Sutton?

Sutton has five highly regarded grammars and one partially-selective school, making it a hub for academic excellence. These schools (including Wilson’s, Nonsuch and Sutton Grammar) consistently rank among the best in the country, with strong competition for places. Focusing on academic achievement and personal growth, they provide an exceptional secondary education.

The five Sutton grammar schools are:

  • Nonsuch High School for Girls
  • Sutton Grammar School     
  • Wallington County Grammar School
  • Wallington High School for Girls                           
  • Wilson’s Grammar School

Greenshaw High School is partially-selective, admitting 60 Year 7 students based on academic ability.

What sets Sutton grammar schools apart is their well-rounded approach to education. While they excel academically, they also provide opportunities for enriching activities, leadership and community engagement. This balance ensures students are prepared not only for university but also for life and future careers.

Here’s more detail on each school.

1. Greenshaw High School

  • Location: Grennell Road, Sutton, SM1 3DY
  • Size: Approximately 1,900 pupils
  • Pupils: Mixed (Boys and Girls) throughout, including the sixth form

Greenshaw High School in Sutton is a vibrant mixed-gender comprehensive with a history dating to 1968. With around 1,900 pupils, it combines academic success with a strong focus on student wellbeing. Programs like “The Big Ideas that Shaped the World” help younger students explore cultural and philosophical milestones, while a dedicated reading scheme enhances literary understanding.

Parents should note: While Greenshaw High School is not a grammar school, it offers 60 selective places each year (based on academic performance in the Sutton 11+). Your child may still be eligible for a place even if they don’t pass the 11+ however, based on the school’s other admissions criteria

2. Nonsuch High School for Girls

  • Location: Ewell Road, Cheam, SM3 8AB
  • Size: Approximately 1,500 pupils
  • Pupils: Girls-only, with a mixed sixth form

Nonsuch High School for Girls, situated in Cheam, is a prestigious grammar school for around 1,500 students, including a mixed sixth form. Known for its academic excellence and emphasis on leadership, students thrive in a supportive community that values creativity, teamwork and global awareness. 

The school, named after Henry VIII’s grand Nonsuch Palace, has a fascinating history dating back to 1938. It’s also a proud member of the International Coalition of Girls’ Schools, with a substantial focus on fundraising activities and creative pursuits alongside academic studies.

3. Sutton Grammar School

  • Location: Manor Lane, Sutton, SM1 4AS
  • Size: Approximately 1,000 pupils
  • Pupils: Boys-only, with a mixed sixth form

Sutton Grammar School, located in the heart of Sutton, is a historic boys-only grammar with a mixed sixth form. Established in 1899, it welcomes 135 boys annually into Year 7 and additional students into the sixth form. Known for its excellent exam results, the school nurtures students’ confidence, creativity and ambition.

With a challenging yet broad curriculum, including music, drama and STEM projects, Sutton Grammar provides a well-rounded education. Its ethos of combining academic rigour with personal growth makes it a standout choice for families.

4. Wallington County Grammar School

  • Location: Croydon Road, Wallington, SM6 7PH
  • Size: Approximately 1,100 pupils
  • Pupils: Boys-only, with a mixed sixth form

Wallington County Grammar School, a boys-only grammar with a mixed sixth form, has been a cornerstone of education since 1927. Located in Wallington, the school fosters a culture of excellence under its motto, Per Ardua Ad Summa – “Through Difficulties to the Heights.”

Ranked among the top ten state schools in London by the Sunday Times, Wallington combines high academic standards with strong core values like courage, compassion and creativity. Its inclusive community ensures students excel in and out the classroom, preparing them for successful futures.

So, if you’re wondering “Is Wallington Grammar a good school?”, the answer is a resounding yes.

5. Wallington High School for Girls

  • Location: Woodcote Road, Wallington, SM6 0PH
  • Size: Approximately 1,500 pupils
  • Pupils: Girls-only, with a mixed sixth-form

Wallington High School for Girls, established in 1888, is one of the leading grammar schools in the UK. Educating around 1,500 students, including a mixed sixth-form, it’s renowned for academic success, first-class pastoral care and an enriching extracurricular program.

With its motto, “Heirs of the Past, Makers of the Future”, the school encourages students to excel academically while developing into confident, compassionate individuals ready to achieve their aspirations. Its focus on curiosity and courage makes it a popular choice for families seeking a supportive learning environment.

6. Wilson’s School

  • Location: Mollison Drive, Wallington, SM6 9JW
  • Size: Approximately 1,300 pupils
  • Pupils: Boys-only, with a mixed sixth form

Wilson’s School, located in Wallington, is one of the oldest and most successful state-funded grammar schools in the country. Established in 1615, the boys-only school, with a mixed sixth-form, combines a rich history with exceptional academic achievements.

Known for its broad curriculum and diverse extracurricular offerings, Wilson’s nurtures respect, ambition and community spirit. With its motto, Non Sibi Sed Omnibus – “Not for Oneself, but for All,” the school remains a top choice for students aspiring to reach their full potential.

For more information on grammar schools in the Greater London area, don’t miss our guides to the best grammars in North London, Slough, Barnet, Harrow and Watford, as well as grammars without a catchment area.

What’s the Sutton 11 Plus format?

The Sutton 11 Plus exam, or the “Selective Eligibility Test” (SET), is a two-stage process that assesses students for admission to Sutton’s grammar schools. This two-stage exam isn’t just about testing knowledge—it uncovers potential, focusing on academic foundations and problem-solving skills. 

Here’s what to expect in each stage.

Stage One: Basic Eligibility Testing

The first stage of the Sutton 11 Plus is a multiple-choice test covering Maths and English, designed to evaluate foundational knowledge. This stage is taken by all applicants to the six selective schools in Sutton.

The great news? Your child only needs to sit one test for all six schools. This saves time and stress during what can already feel like a busy process.

Here are the key details:

  • Subjects: Maths and English
  • Format: Multiple choice
  • Duration: Each paper takes 40–50 minutes, with a break between them.
  • Content: The questions are based on the Key Stage Two curriculum, focusing on core skills without including verbal or non-verbal reasoning.

Greenshaw High School determines its 60 ability-based places using the results of Stage One alone. For the other five schools, success in this stage is your child’s ticket to the second stage.

Stage Two: Advanced Testing

For children who pass Stage One, the second stage involves more advanced testing, offering a closer look at their problem-solving and creative skills. This includes:

  • English Paper: A writing task where students demonstrate their creativity and ability to construct clear, thoughtful responses.
  • Maths Paper: A standard, free-response maths test to showcase problem-solving and analytical thinking.
  • Duration: Each paper lasts 45 minutes to an hour.
  • Format: No multiple-choice questions here. Like Stage One, verbal and non-verbal reasoning are not included.

The second-stage process is different for boys and girls:

  • For Boys: Sutton Grammar School, Wallington County Grammar School and Wilson’s School use a shared second-stage test. While the test is common to all three, each school applies its own admissions criteria to assess selective ability.
  • For Girls: Nonsuch High School for Girls and Wallington High School for Girls hold a joint second-stage test. Both the test content and admissions criteria are the same for these schools. 

What are the key dates for the Sutton 11 Plus?

For the Sutton 11 Plus, staying on top of key dates is crucial. While the exact timeline for 2026 entry hasn’t been confirmed yet, here’s a rough idea of what to expect based on previous years. 

Treat this as a guide and remember to check with your chosen schools to ensure you don’t miss any important updates. This is especially important for homeschooling families, who won’t have additional support from primary schools.

1. Exam Registration: Early May 2025

Registration typically opens in May and remains available for several weeks. This is your first step in the process, so mark your calendar and allow plenty of time to complete the application. Late entries aren’t usually accepted, so don’t leave it until the last minute!

2. Stage One Test: Mid-September 2025

This is the first hurdle in the Sutton 11 Plus journey. It’s a multiple-choice exam covering Maths and English, designed to test your child’s foundational skills. Since this test determines who progresses to the second stage, preparation is key. Schools provide specific information closer to the date, including test venues and timings. So keep an eye on your inbox.

3. Stage Two Test: Early October 2025

For children who pass Stage One, the second-stage test follows a few weeks later. This stage digs deeper, assessing creative and problem-solving abilities through free-response Maths and English tasks. With the quick turnaround between stages, it’s helpful to have a preparation plan in place well before Stage One results are released.

4. Common Application Form (CAF) Deadline: 31 October 2025

After exams, it’s time to submit your Common Application Form (CAF). This form lists your preferred schools and is submitted to your local authority. Even if your child hasn’t taken all the tests yet, or if results are pending, you must still submit the CAF by this date.

5. National Offer Day: 3 March 2026

This is the day you’ll find out which school your child is offered. It’s an exciting moment but can also feel a bit nerve-wracking. If your child doesn’t get their first choice, don’t panic—there are options to appeal or join waiting lists.

Focus on: Sutton Grammar School

Is Sutton Grammar School mixed?

No, Sutton Grammar School is not a mixed school. It is a selective grammar school for boys, catering to students in Years 7 to 11. However, the sixth-form is co-educational, meaning girls can apply for A Level studies. This creates a focused learning environment for younger students while opening up opportunities for mixed-gender collaboration in Years 12 and 13.

What rank is Sutton Grammar School?

Sutton Grammar School is regularly ranked among the top grammar schools in the UK. In 2024, the Sunday Times Guide ranked it 10th best in the country

This reputation reflects not just high academic standards (and exceptional GCSE and A Level results) but also a commitment to nurturing well-rounded students. Many parents and students choose Sutton Grammar School for its balance of academic rigour and supportive ethos.

How hard is it to get into Sutton Grammar School?

Gaining a place at Sutton Grammar School is undeniably challenging due to its popularity and academic standards. The school uses a two-stage Selective Eligibility Test (SET) for admissions.

  • Stage One consists of multiple-choice Maths and English papers.
  • Stage Two, for those who qualify, involves free-response Maths questions and a creative writing task.

Each year, the school receives thousands of applications for just 135 places, making the process extremely competitive. The key to success lies in thorough preparation, including understanding the exam format, practising past questions, mock tests and honing time-management skills.

What’s the pass mark for Sutton Grammar School?

The pass mark for Sutton Grammar School’s 11 Plus exam isn’t set in stone and isn’t published beforehand. This is because the qualifying score varies from year to year, depending on factors like:

  • The number of applicants that year.
  • The difficulty of the test.
  • The number of places available.

In practice, boys need to achieve an 11+ score that places them in the top 10-20% of students to be considered for a place. This generally means a total of 80% or higher.

Do you have to pay for Sutton Grammar School?

No, Sutton Grammar School is a state-funded grammar school, which means there are no tuition fees for attending. This accessibility makes it a popular choice for families who want a high-quality education without the financial commitment of private schooling.

That said, there are additional costs for things like:

  • Uniforms
  • Educational trips or activities
  • Materials for extracurricular clubs or projects

The school is committed to supporting students from all backgrounds, so families in financial need may be able to access assistance with certain costs.

Thinking about Sutton grammar schools for your child?

Sutton’s grammar schools are known for their academic excellence and the wide-ranging opportunities they offer to bright, motivated students. Preparing for the Sutton Selective Eligibility Test and navigating the admissions process can feel challenging. But with the right guidance, you and your child can approach it with confidence. 

Achieve Learning supports families by offering tailored 11+ tuition that builds strong foundations from Year 4 or Year 5. We provide realistic mock exams that mirror the test-day experience and expert academic consultancy to keep your child on track at every stage. With our help, your child can feel fully prepared and ready to succeed in their 11 Plus journey. Get in touch today to learn more.

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Grammar Schools in Gloucestershire: A Parents’ 11+ Guide

Gloucestershire is home to some of the best grammar schools in the country, known for their academic excellence, historic roots and vibrant school communities. From academic and sporting excellence at Pates to an empowered all-girls education at Denmark Road High School, there’s something for everyone.

Whether you’re exploring your options or narrowing down your choices, understanding what each school offers and how the 11+ works is key to finding the best fit for your child.

In this guide, you’ll find a detailed overview of all the grammar schools in Gloucestershire, as well as information on the 11 Plus format, pass marks, key deadlines and more.

How many grammar schools are there in Gloucestershire?

Gloucestershire is a hotspot for grammar schools, boasting seven in total across Cheltenham, Gloucester and Stroud. Including the prestigious Pate’s Grammar, Sir Thomas Rich’s and The Crypt School, this is unusually high compared to many other counties in the UK—making Gloucestershire an excellent choice for families seeking a selective education.

Here are the seven Gloucestershire grammar schools:

  • Pate’s Grammar School
  • Denmark Road High School
  • Ribston Hall High School
  • Sir Thomas Rich’s School
  • The Crypt School
  • Marling School
  • Stroud High School

Here’s a closer look at each school.

1. Pate’s Grammar School

  • Location: Princess Elizabeth Way, Cheltenham, GL51 0HG
  • Size: Approx. 1,250 pupils
  • Pupils: Mixed, co-educational from 11-18

Pate’s Grammar School, founded in 1574, is one of the UK’s top academic institutions—blending centuries of tradition with a modern approach to education. Co-educational since 1986, the school has built a reputation for excellence, consistently ranking among the best for A Level and GCSE results.

Beyond academics, Pate’s is known for its inclusive culture and dynamic school life. The 2024 Ofsted report highlighted this, praising the school’s “exceptional array of opportunities for pupils to pursue interests and develop talents.” Alumni, affectionately known as “Patesians”, stay connected through a supportive network, reflecting the strong sense of belonging that defines the school.

What rank is Pate’s Grammar School?

Pate’s Grammar School is consistently ranked as one of the top grammar schools in the UK. In the 2025 edition of The Sunday Times Parent Power Schools Guide, it was named South West Secondary School of the Year for academic performance, a testament to its exceptional achievements. Nationally, it earned an impressive fifth place in the guide’s rankings.

How do I get into Pate’s Grammar School?

Admission to Pate’s is highly competitive and based on the Gloucestershire Grammar School Entrance Test. Registration for the test typically opens in May and closes in June, with the test held in September. Make sure to list Pate’s on your local authority application form if it’s one of your preferred schools.

2. Denmark Road High School

  • Location: Denmark Road, Gloucester, GL1 3JN
  • Size: Approx. 970 pupils
  • Pupils: Girls (11-16), mixed sixth form

With roots dating back to the 1880s, Denmark Road High School has a proud tradition of providing quality education for girls. The school has built a reputation for nurturing academic excellence alongside personal growth, and its all-girls environment until the sixth form is a hallmark of its commitment to empowering young women. 

With the commitment to “Discover, Realise, Honour and Shape every day”, a key feature of Denmark Road High School is its emphasis on preparing students for the challenges of the modern world. Denmark Road also offers a mixed sixth form, which broadens students’ experiences and prepares them for the realities of higher education.

3. Ribston Hall High School

  • Location: Ribston Hall, Stroud Road, Gloucester, GL1 5LE
  • Size: Approx. 870 pupils
  • Pupils: Girls (11-16), mixed sixth form

Ribston Hall High School, founded in 1921, is a renowned girls’ grammar school celebrated for its academic strengths, particularly in the sciences and humanities. The school’s reputation in science was bolstered by a cutting-edge science block in 2022 (funded by a £1.5 million grant), providing students with exceptional opportunities for hands-on learning.

Focusing on well-being and individual success, Ribston Hall ensures students have the tools to thrive. Beyond a challenging academic curriculum, Ribston offers a vibrant mix of activities, including sports, drama and music. Its inclusive mixed sixth-form provides a smooth transition into university and graduate careers.

4. Sir Thomas Rich’s School

  • Location: Oakleaze, Gloucester GL2 0LF
  • Size: Approx. 1,260 pupils
  • Pupils: Boys (11-16), mixed sixth form

Sir Thomas Rich’s School, affectionately known as “Tommy Rich’s,” is one of Gloucestershire’s most distinguished grammar schools, celebrated for its academic achievements and dynamic extracurricular opportunities. Established in 1668 through the generous legacy of Sir Thomas Rich, the school started as an institution for 20 underprivileged boys and has since evolved into a vibrant centre of education and community.

Students are warmly welcomed into the close-knit “Richian” community, where a strong emphasis on pastoral care ensures every individual feels supported and valued. Guided by its enduring motto, “Garde Ta Foy” (Keep the Faith), the school combines centuries-old traditions with a progressive outlook, equipping students to succeed in an ever-evolving world.

What’s the largest school in Gloucestershire?

As well as being one of the highest-ranked grammar schools in the county (third in the Sunday Times South West rankings), Sir Thomas Rich’s is also the largest grammar school in Gloucestershire. With 1,260 pupils across secondary, the school accepts 150 Year 7 students each year.

For non-grammar schools, Balcarras School in Cheltenham is one of the largest—with 1,420 students.

5. The Crypt School

  • Location: Podsmead Road, Gloucester, GL2 5AE
  • Size: Approx. 1,100 pupils
  • Pupils: Mixed, co-educational from 11-18

The Crypt School, established in 1539, is one of England’s oldest schools. It remains rooted in the founding vision of John and Joan Cooke: providing a grammar education to talented children, no matter their background. Today, it’s a thriving community of over 1,000 boys and girls from Gloucester and beyond, combining a rich history with a progressive outlook on education.

Known for its academic excellence, The Crypt also shines in its dedication to pastoral care, creating a supportive environment where students can truly thrive. With a strong emphasis on extracurricular opportunities, the school encourages its pupils to explore their passions, embrace challenges, and grow into confident, well-rounded individuals.

What rank is Crypt Grammar School in Gloucester?

The School Guide ranks The Crypt School as second-best school in Gloucester, only behind Sir Thomas Rich’s. This reflects its fantastic reputation for academic success and dedication to helping students achieve their best.

In March 2024, Ofsted rated The Crypt “outstanding” in every area. Inspectors noted that pupils “consistently live up to the school’s high expectations. The school’s motto, “Flourish Cryptians,” really sums it up—this is a place where students thrive in every way.

Is the Crypt School private in Gloucester?

No, The Crypt School is a state-funded grammar school. Despite its historic name, it remains accessible to families with no tuition fees required. Entry is based on academic ability, assessed through the 11+ exam, making it a selective but non-private option for students in Gloucester and beyond. 

6. Marling School

  • Location: Cainscross Road, Stroud, GL5 4HE
  • Size: Approx. 1,180 pupils
  • Pupils: Boys (11-16), mixed sixth form

Marling School is a respected boys’ grammar school known for its academic success and a strong sense of community. Guided by the motto Abeunt Studia in Mores—“Through study, we build character”—Marling has upheld its founding values since 1887. 

The school aims to nurture independent, principled thinkers who take responsibility for their learning and engage thoughtfully with the world. Its alumni, affectionately called “Old Marlingtonians,” continue to embody these values, remaining an active and cherished part of the school community.

7. Stroud High School

  • Location: Beards Lane, Stroud, GL5 4AX
  • Size: Approx. 1,100 pupils
  • Pupils: Girls (11-16), mixed sixth form

Stroud High School, founded in 1904, is one of the UK’s most inspiring and high-achieving girls’ grammar schools. Renowned for academic excellence and fostering personal growth, the school encourages students to make remarkable achievements part of their everyday experience.

Regularly ranked among the top schools in Gloucestershire, Stroud High boasts exceptional GCSE progress levels, making it the highest-performing state girls’ school in the South West. Its impressive performance at GCSE and A Level places it among the top fifty state schools nationwide.

If you’re exploring grammar schools further afield, don’t miss our guides to grammars in Birmingham, Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire as well as the best grammars in London.

How many children take the 11+ in Gloucestershire?

Thousands of children sit the Gloucestershire Grammar School Entrance Test each year. In 2024, 3,130 students took the 11+ in Gloucestershire, up from 2,568 pupils in 2022.

These numbers reflect the county’s reputation for outstanding grammar schools. Indeed, the headmaster of The Crypt School (Nicholas Dyer) described the figures as “wonderful news” for widening access—showing the level of confidence in the county’s seven grammar schools.

What percentage of children get into grammar school?

In Gloucestershire, around 3,130 students sit the 11+ exam each year, all competing for just 1,050 grammar school places. This means about 33% of students secure a spot, making the process highly competitive.

Each grammar school usually takes in around 150 Year 7 students, though this can vary between schools. It’s a tough challenge for children, and it’s normal for families to feel a little nervous about the process. But with the right preparation—whether that’s practice papers, mock exams or extra tuition—your child can approach the 11+ with confidence.

Is Gloucestershire 11+ CEM or GL?

GL Assessment provides the Gloucestershire 11+. GL Assessment is one of the country’s leading exam providers, with free familiarisation materials and sample paper bundles available from their website.

But in short, the Gloucestershire 11+ exam consists of two papers, with multiple-choice questions on English, Maths, Verbal and Non-Verbal reasoning. Each paper is 55 minutes long, with a break in between.

While the exact format is subject to change, you can expect:

  • Paper 1: English and Verbal Reasoning – multiple choice and comprehension questions.
  • Paper 2: Maths and Non-Verbal Reasoning – mostly multiple choice.

What’s the pass mark for Gloucestershire Grammar Schools?

The pass mark for Gloucestershire grammar schools isn’t a fixed number—it varies each year depending on how students perform. Schools rank applicants based on their test scores, and only those who achieve a qualifying score, or the “pass mark,” are considered for a place.

As a rule of thumb, students reliably achieving 75-80% or more in mock tests should meet the qualifying score. For Pates (the most competitive of all the Gloucestershire grammars), 85% or more is a good benchmark to aim for.

It’s important to remember, though, that achieving a qualifying score doesn’t automatically guarantee a place. Factors like oversubscription, priority catchment areas and tie-break criteria all come into play.

What are the key dates for the Gloucestershire 11+?

While the exact dates for 2025 exams (and 2026 school entry) haven’t been confirmed yet, last year’s timeline gives a good idea of what to expect. These dates provide a helpful framework for planning ahead, but it’s always worth checking with schools closer to the time, as schedules vary.

  • Online registration: Mid-May to mid-June 2025
  • Online school application opens: Mid-September 2025
  • 11 Plus exam day: Mid-September 2025
  • Results released: Early to mid-October 2025
  • Closing date for secondary applications: 31 October 2025
  • National school offer day: 3 March 2026

For details about appeals, waiting lists or late tests, contact grammar schools directly. This is particularly vital if you’re homeschooling your child, to ensure you don’t miss any updates. 

What’s the hardest grammar school to get into?

Pate’s Grammar School is often regarded as the most competitive grammar school in Gloucestershire. With around 3,000 students sitting the 11+ each year and only 150 places available, the odds are steep. Just 5% of 11+ candidates will secure a spot.

What makes Pate’s even more challenging is that it doesn’t have a catchment area. So students apply from across Gloucestershire and beyond, including Swindon, Bristol and even Oxford. This adds to the competition, as the school attracts high-performing students from a wide geographical area.

Unlike other grammar schools in the county, Pate’s also has a unique marking system that requires students to achieve a minimum score on both test papers, rather than an average across the two. Students are then ranked according to performance, with the “qualifying group” designated as the top 250 students. This makes the process even more rigorous, as it’s not enough to perform well overall—you need consistency.

Thinking about Gloucestershire Grammar Schools for your child?

Getting ready for the 11+ can feel daunting, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At Achieve Learning, we provide expert tuition, mock exams and tailored guidance to help your child succeed. Contact us today and give your child the best chance of securing a place at their dream school.

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Active and Passive Sentences for KS2: Explanation and Teaching Ideas

If your child is working through Key Stage Two (KS2), they’ve probably come across the terms “active voice” and “passive voice” in their English lessons. 

But for many children—and parents!—the difference between active and passive sentences is tricky to grasp. The difference lies in how a sentence is structured and where the focus falls, but it’s easy for children to feel overwhelmed by new terminology.  

The good news is understanding active and passive voice doesn’t have to be difficult. In this blog, we’ll explain what active and passive voice means, how to help your child recognise and use them, and why they’re important. We’ll also explore the best ways to teach the concept, with tips, examples and golden rules to keep things simple. 

So whether you’re a KS2 parent, teacher, or just keen to support your child’s learning, this guide has everything you need to help them master active and passive sentences.  

What is active and passive voice for KS2?  

Active and passive voice refer to how a sentence is structured and what it emphasises. In the active voice, the subject of the sentence is doing the action. This gives the sentence a direct and dynamic feel. In contrast, passive voice shifts the focus to the object receiving the action. Passive voice makes the action itself feel more important than who (or what) performed it.  

If this sounds a bit theoretical, consider these examples:

  • Active voice: “The dog chased the ball” – this sentence focuses on the dog, the doer of the action. 
  • Passive voice: “The ball was chased by the dog” – this sentence highlights the object, i.e. the ball.

Active voice is more common in everyday writing and speaking because it’s straightforward. Passive voice, on the other hand, is often used in formal or impersonal writing (like scientific reports or instructions), because it focuses on the action rather than who performed it. For example, “The experiment was conducted in a laboratory” sounds more formal than “The scientists conducted the experiment.” 

In KS2, understanding these sentence types is important because they help children improve their writing and vocabulary. Recognising the difference also supports their comprehension of formal texts, where passive voice is frequently used.  

What are active and passive sentences for kids?  

When introducing active and passive sentences to children, it’s helpful to keep the explanations simple and relatable. The key difference is whether the subject is doing the action or receiving it. So imagine a superhero in a story. In the active voice, the superhero is busy saving the day. While in the passive voice, the focus is on what’s being saved!  

Here’s how to explain it:

  • Active voice: “The superhero saved the city.”
  • Let’s get active and pretend to be superheroes! We’re the subject and the focus of our sentence —and we’re saving the city!
  • Passive voice: “The city was saved by the superhero.”
  • Oh no! Our beautiful city is under threat! Can anyone help us? The city is the focus here, and it’s receiving the action.

To help children understand, try using examples from their favourite activities. For instance: 

  • Active: “The football player kicked the ball.”  
  • Passive: “The ball was kicked by the football player.”  
  • Active: “The ballerina performed a graceful pirouette.”
  • Passive: “A graceful pirouette was performed by the ballerina.

Follow up by encouraging your child to imagine swapping the focus between the doer and the receiver in their own sentences. Making it fun and interactive helps the concept stick.

For help understanding and explaining further KS2 spelling and grammar topics, don’t miss our guides to connectives, subordinate clauses, homophones and fronted adverbials.

How can I teach active and passive sentences for KS2?

Teaching active and passive sentences is all about breaking the concept into manageable chunks and using practical activities to reinforce learning. Start by introducing the roles of the subject, verb and object in a sentence. Once children understand these parts, it becomes easier to explain how active and passive voice work.  

Begin with examples of active sentences and identify the subject, verb and object together. Then, show how these roles change when rewriting the sentence in the passive voice. 

For instance:  

  • Active: “The boy threw the ball.”  
    • Subject: The boy  
    • Verb: threw  
    • Object: the ball  
  • Passive: “The ball was thrown by the boy.”  
    • Subject: The ball  
    • Verb: was thrown  
    • Doer (mentioned later): by the boy

As you’re teaching the concept, remember that interactive activities always make ideas more engaging. To get started, you could do something as simple as encouraging your child to use different colours to highlight the subject, verb and object in active and passive sentences.

You could also consider “rewriting challenges” where you provide active sentences and ask your child to rewrite them in the passive voice, and vice versa (bonus points for impressive adjectives!). Wherever possible, stick to real-life examples. Build this into everyday chitchat, pointing out examples like “The package was delivered yesterday” (passive) or “The driver delivered the package” (active).  

What are active and passive sentences with examples?  

Active and passive sentences each have their own place in writing. Active sentences are often clear and direct, while passive sentences shift the focus to the object or action. One isn’t necessarily better than the other, it’s all about context! So understanding examples and how to spot them is key. And for this, it’s all about practice, practice, practice.

Here are five active and five passive sentences, along with explanations of why the sentences fit each category.

5 examples of passive sentences in KS2  

  1. “The cake was baked by the chef.” – The cake is the focus, and the action (baking) is being done to it.  
  2. “The ball was thrown by the goalkeeper.” – The ball is receiving the action of being thrown.  
  3. “The homework was completed by the student.” – The homework is the focus, not the person who completed it.  
  4. “The house was painted by the decorators.” – The house is highlighted, and the action (painting) is done to it.  
  5. “The song was sung by the choir.” – The song is the subject, and the choir’s role is secondary.  

5 examples of active sentences in KS2  

  1. “The chef baked the cake.” – The chef is actively doing the action of baking.  
  2. “The goalkeeper threw the ball.” – The goalkeeper is the subject performing the action.  
  3. “The student completed the homework.” – The student is taking action in the sentence.  
  4. “The decorators painted the house.” – The decorators are actively doing the painting.  
  5. “The choir sang the song.” – The choir is directly carrying out the action of singing.  

How do you identify active and passive sentences?  

Figuring out whether a sentence is active or passive is all about spotting who’s in control. Start by identifying the subject of the sentence—who or what it’s about. Then ask: is the subject doing the action, or is it having something done to it? If the subject is in charge and doing something, the sentence is active. If the subject is more of a bystander, receiving the action, it’s passive.

Here’s an example to make it clearer:

  • Active: “The dog chased the cat.” (Here, the dog is taking the action—it’s the one doing the chasing.)
  • Passive: “The cat was chased by the dog.” (In this case, the cat is the focus—it’s on the receiving end of the action.)

For children in KS2, understanding active and passive voice is a handy skill, as it often pops up in SATs or 11+ exams—as well as later GCSE English

During KS2, children might be asked to identify or rewrite sentences in both forms. To make this less daunting, try turning it into a game. Pick sentences from their favourite stories or daily activities and ask them to “flip the voice.” Fastest wins! For example, turn “The player scored the goal” into “The goal was scored by the player.” 

With practice, spotting the difference becomes second nature.

What are the golden rules of active and passive voice?

Active and passive voice can feel confusing, but a few simple rules make it much easier to understand. 

The most important tip? Pay attention to the subject’s role. In active voice, the subject takes charge and does the action—like “The teacher explained the lesson.” In passive voice, the focus shifts to what’s happening to the subject—”The lesson was explained by the teacher.” It’s all about deciding who or what you want to emphasise.

Another trick is to look for the word “by.” Passive sentences often use “by” to show who performed the action, but not always. For example, “The cake was eaten” doesn’t say who ate it, but it’s still passive. Also, remember that passive voice isn’t tied to one tense—it works across all of them. Whether you’re saying “The book is being read” (present) or “The book was read” (past), the structure remains the same.

So, in summary:

  • Focus on the subject’s role: In active voice, the subject acts. In passive voice, the subject receives the action.  
  • Look for the word ‘by’: Passive sentences often include “by” to show who performed the action.   
  • Passive is not a tense: It’s a grammatical structure that can apply to past, present or future.  

Passive voice isn’t better or worse than active voice—it’s simply a tool for focusing on different parts of the sentence. Active voice tends to feel more direct and energetic, while passive voice is helpful when the action or result is more important than who’s doing it. Both have their place! For instance, “The glass was broken” might be better than pointing fingers in some situations. 

Helping children recognise when to use each one will not only boost their grammar skills but also give them tools to make their creative writing more flexible and thoughtful.

Key Stage Two English tuition: supporting your child at every step

Mastering concepts like active and passive voice is a key part of building strong grammar skills in KS2. With clear guidance, relatable examples and a bit of creativity, your child can feel confident navigating these sentence structures—and applying them effectively in their writing.

If you’d like tailored support to help your child succeed, Achieve Learning is here to help. We offer expert tuition for GCSE English, SATs and 11+ preparation, along with personalised academic consultancy. Contact us today to give your child the confidence and tools they need to thrive in their English journey.

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Dame Alice Owen’s School: 11+ Exams Guide for 2026 Entry

When it comes to choosing the right school for your child, especially a prestigious and competitive school like Dame Alice Owen’s, the process can feel overwhelming at first. With so much information to sift through, it’s easy to get lost in the details. 

But that’s where this guide comes in: we’re here to give you the key facts for 2026 entry. Whether you’re just starting to think about your child’s secondary education or already deep in the application process, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Dame Alice Owen’s, the school’s reputation and rankings, and the all-important 11+ exam.

As well as an introduction to Dame Alice Owen’s School and their admissions policies, we’ll also cover the 11+ exam format, key deadlines and pass marks. Let’s get started and break it all down.

Dame Alice Owen’s School: An Introduction

Located in Potters Bar, Hertfordshire, Dame Alice Owen’s is one of the most prestigious state secondary schools in the area. With a long history stretching back to 1613, the school has maintained a reputation for academic excellence. It’s co-educational and offers a well-rounded education that balances academic study with extracurricular opportunities.

While it’s relatively large (with about 1,500 students), Dame Alice Owen’s still maintains a close-knit, supportive community that encourages academic rigour as well as personal growth. With fascinating origins owing to a cow, a village maiden and an archer’s arrow (yes, you read that right!), it began life as a charitable school for Islington boys.

Today, Dame Alice Owen’s is partially-selective, and like many other secondary schools, it uses the 11+ entrance exam as one admission criteria. Excelling in this exam is no small feat. But with the right preparation and understanding of the process, your child stands a good chance of success.

Parents should also know that Dame Alice Owen’s isn’t part of the South West Hertfordshire Consortium, a group of seven partially-selective schools in the region. If you’re searching for other nearby grammar schools, the prestigious Queen Elizabeth’s School and The Henrietta Barnett School are also worth a look.

How many students go to Dame Alice Owen’s?

Dame Alice Owen’s is a relatively large grammar school, with about 1,500 students enrolled across its secondary school and sixth-form. Each year, the school admits around 200 students into Year 7. 

This size allows the school to offer a diverse range of subjects and extracurricular activities while still fostering a personal and supportive atmosphere.

Is Dame Alice Owen’s a grammar school?

No, Dame Alice Owen’s is not a grammar school. While grammar schools select students based on academic ability, Dame Alice Owen’s operates as a partially-selective school. It’s state-funded however (unlike private schools), meaning it’s free to attend. While some places are awarded on academic performance, the majority of students are admitted using other criteria. 

Here’s an overview of how the current admission criteria works:

  • Catchment area and siblings: Like many schools, most places are allocated to children living within the school’s catchment areas, with priority given to those with siblings already attending or children of current staff (among other factors).
  • Proximity: 22 places are reserved for children whose permanent home address is closest to the school at the time of application.
  • Music aptitude: 10 places are set aside for students demonstrating exceptional musical ability.
  • Academic ability: Up to 65 places are awarded to students excelling in the school’s academic entrance exams. Children wishing to sit the Entrance Examination must live in one of the school’s local priority areas.

For an in-depth look at nearby grammars, don’t miss our guides to grammar schools in London, North London, Hertfordshire, Harrow, Watford, Slough and Barnet.

What’s the exam format for Dame Alice Owen’s 11 Plus?

The academic selection process involves two stages:

Part One: Verbal Reasoning Test

A 50-minute multiple-choice Verbal Reasoning paper, provided by GL Assessment. The paper usually consists of 80 questions, measuring students’ logic and reasoning skills.

Scores are age-standardised, and the top 325 candidates are invited to take Part Two. Students who rank below 325 aren’t eligible for entry.

To help you and your child get ready for the 11 Plus Verbal Reasoning and English papers, we’ve compiled an 11+ reading list, as well as guides to powerful adjectives, ambitious vocabulary and attention-grabbing character descriptions.

Part Two: English and Maths Papers

Shortlisted candidates sit two additional exams, one in English and one in Maths, held at the school. Both exams are written internally.

  • The English Paper involves a 60-minute comprehension paper, including one extended writing piece.
  • The Maths Paper is also 60-minutes, with free familiarisation materials and further sample papers available to purchase.

Final offers are made based on the combined scores of all three tests, with the highest-ranking students receiving places.

What’s the pass mark for Dame Alice Owen’s?

The pass mark for Dame Alice Owen’s changes each year, determined by applicants’ overall performance. 

  • For Part One (Verbal Reasoning), your child needs to rank in the top 325 candidates. This means your child is eligible to sit Part Two (English and Maths). 
  • To secure one of the 65 academic places, your child must score within the top 20% of students.

You should also know that Dame Alice Owen’s 11+ exam scores are age-standardised to account for the fact that children born at different times of the year are at different developmental stages. This standardisation ensures all students are assessed fairly.

Key dates and deadlines for Dame Alice Owen’s 11+ exam

For families applying for 2026 entry to Dame Alice Owen’s, here are the key dates and deadlines to know. These dates provide a framework for planning ahead, but staying updated with official announcements from the school is crucial to ensure nothing is missed.

  • Online Test Registration: Open from 1 May to 12 June 2025.
  • Open Afternoon: 17 July 2025, offering a chance to visit the school, meet staff and students, and hear from the Head.
  • 11+ Exam (Part 1): The Verbal Reasoning Test and the first part of the Musical Aptitude Test are scheduled for 1 September 2025.
  • 11+ Exam (Part 2): The English and Mathematics Tests will take place on 27 September, while the second part of the Musical Aptitude Test is spread between 22–26 September.
  • Results: Families usually receive ranked results within four weeks of the second test (always before 31 October). These letters show the candidate’s rank and the lowest rank that secured a place in recent years. They’re just for information and don’t constitute an official offer.
  • Common Application Form (CAF) Deadline: 31 October 2025. Parents must complete and return the CAF to their home Local Authority by this date to apply for a place.
  • National Offer Day: Early March 2026.

For application and exam dates across the country, head to our complete 11+ deadlines guide.

Is Dame Alice Owen’s a selective school?

Dame Alice Owen’s School is indeed selective, with around 40% of students admitted based on specific criteria. This includes 22 places for children living closest to the school, 65 places for those who excel in academic entrance exams, and 10 places reserved for students with exceptional musical ability. 

This unique approach means that both academically gifted students and those living nearby have a chance to secure a place at this sought-after school.

Is Dame Alice Owen’s hard to get into?

In short, yes. For those applying via the 11+ route, Dame Alice Owen’s is hard to get into, because of its high academic standards and many applications. 

With only 65 academic places available, it’s a competitive process, and students must perform well across all three sections (Verbal Reasoning, English and Maths) of the 11+ exam.

Academic places are awarded based on ranking (going to the top 20% of final candidates) rather than simply meeting a qualifying score. So your child’s performance needs to stand out. 

That said, competitive doesn’t mean impossible. With the right preparation—such as regular practice, mock tests and targeted 11+ tuition—many families successfully secure a place each year. It’s a challenge, but with dedication and support, it’s one that’s achievable. 

How many children apply to Dame Alice Owen’s?

Dame Alice Owen’s receives hundreds of applications each year. In 2024, 756 students applied for 200 places. This gives an acceptance rate of 26%. 

With so many applications, competition is fierce, and only the top-performing academic candidates secure a spot. But for families considering Dame Alice Owen’s, this balance between selectivity and inclusivity makes the school an exceptional choice.

What rank is Dame Alice Owen’s School?

Dame Alice Owen’s School ranks as one of the top schools in Hertfordshire, and for good reason. In The Sunday Times Parent Power Guide 2025, it was named Comprehensive School of the Year (Southeast), alongside St Andrew’s Catholic School in Surrey. It’s also recognised as one of the highest-performing state schools in the country, currently ranking 112.

This is the third time the school has earned such recognition since 2017, with The Sunday Times praising both the impressive academic progress students make and the wide range of opportunities offered. Indeed, the school is also ranked “outstanding” by Ofsted.

And what’s more, the school’s GCSE and A Level results back this up. In 2024, 94% of Year 11 students achieved at least five GCSE grades 9–4, while 74% of entries were awarded grades 9, 8, or 7. At A Level, 87% of grades were A–B, with 28% of entries achieving an A*.

Thinking about Dame Alice Owen’s School for your child?

Securing a place at a sought-after school like Dame Alice Owen’s is a significant milestone, but with the right preparation and guidance, it’s within reach.

Start early, get familiar with the process, and provide your child with the support they need to shine. And remember, this is just one step in their educational journey—whatever the outcome, there are always other exciting opportunities ahead.

For expert guidance, turn to Achieve Learning. We offer personalised 1-to-1 11 Plus tuition, realistic mock exams and tailored consultancy services to give your child the best possible chance of success. Let’s work together to unlock their full potential.

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Grammar Schools in Liverpool and Wirral: Your Complete Guide

If you live in Liverpool or Wirral, you’re lucky to have several fantastic grammars. But when it comes to securing a place at grammar school, we know the process can feel daunting. As well as all the academic preparation there are various dates and deadlines, multiple exam formats and of course, choosing the right school!

But we’re here to help. 

In this article, we’ve listed all the grammar schools (as well as partially-selective schools) in Liverpool and Wirral. We’ll explain the 11 Plus exam format, school rankings, where you’ll face the most competition and key admissions information including deadlines, pass marks and scoring. 

Let’s dive in. Here’s your complete guide to grammar schools in Liverpool and Wirral.

Does Liverpool have grammar schools?

Liverpool is home to several partially-selective schools, but the number of grammar schools is relatively small. In fact, the city only has one such school, The Blue Coat School. While this might seem limited for such a large area, it’s worth noting that many Liverpool families can also consider grammars in the Wirral, which is home to six grammar schools.

Let’s take a closer look at the grammar schools in both Liverpool and Wirral.

Grammar Schools in Liverpool

Liverpool’s only fully-selective grammar school is The Blue Coat School, a historic and prestigious institution in Wavertree. Established in 1708 as a charity school for poor and orphaned children, The Blue Coat School has evolved into one of the most academically accomplished schools in the country. 

Its impressive results and well-rounded curriculum attract a large number of applicants every year, making it one of the most competitive schools in the region. The school provides an “all-through” education, offering secondary and sixth-form studies on the same site.

Unlike most grammar schools in the Wirral (that share a common 11 Plus exam), The Blue Coat School uses its own entrance exam. This test assesses a range of English and Maths skills, and ranks applicants based on performance. Only top-performing students secure a place, further cementing the school’s reputation as one of the most selective in the North West.

What’s the acceptance rate for Liverpool Blue Coat School?

Getting a spot at The Blue Coat School is no easy feat! The acceptance rate sits between 10-15% for Year 7 entry, making it one of the most selective schools in Liverpool. In 2023, over 1,000 students (1,089, to be exact) sat the entrance exam, vying for just 180 places.

  • Admissions are based on how well students perform in English, Maths and Creative Writing
  • Maths and English scores determine rankings, but students must also meet a minimum standard in Creative Writing to secure a place. 
  • To support its focus on social mobility, the school also sets aside up to 27 places for the highest-scoring applicants eligible for free school meals, with the rest going to other top-performing candidates.

If your child is aiming for The Blue Coat, preparation is key. Although the exact score for entry changes each year, a good target is 80% or higher in mock tests.

For extra help, we’ve created an 11+ reading list and guides on powerful adjectives, ambitious vocabulary, and character descriptions to help your child feel confident tackling English papers.

Partially-Selective Schools in Liverpool

In addition to The Blue Coat School, Liverpool is home to three partially-selective schools providing alternatives to traditional grammar schools. These schools combine academic rigour with specialised admissions criteria, making them appealing for students with specific talents or faith-based preferences. 

These schools are a great choice for families looking to balance academic achievement and a focus on values, faith and creative talents, offering a different experience to grammar schools that primarily prioritise academic performance.

How many grammar schools are there in the Wirral?

The Wirral area is known for a higher concentration of grammar schools compared with Liverpool. As a result, it’s a popular destination for families looking for a challenging curriculum. There are six fully-selective grammar schools in Wirral.

This includes:

  1. Calday Grange Grammar School
  2. West Kirby Grammar School
  3. Wirral Grammar School for Girls
  4. Wirral Grammar School for Boys
  5. St Anselm’s College
  6. Upton Hall School

While these Wirral Schools are all highly competitive, they differ in their entrance requirements. For example, four of these schools (Calday Grange, West Kirby, Wirral Grammar for Boys, and Wirral Grammar for Girls) share the same Wirral Admissions Test. This means that students applying to these schools sit the same exam, making the process simpler for parents applying to multiple schools in the region.

However, St Anselm’s College and Upton Hall School have separate 11+ exams. As does The Blue Coat School in Liverpool. So check specific testing arrangements with each of these schools if you’re applying.

What’s the ranking of Wirral Grammar School?

There are two Wirral Grammar Schools: Wirral Grammar School for Girls and Wirral Grammar School for Boys. Both are exceptionally highly regarded schools with strong academic reputations.

  • Wirral Grammar School for Girls ranks 93rd nationally in the prestigious Sunday Times Parent Power list. The school has also earned an “Outstanding” rating in its most recent Ofsted inspection, reflecting its exceptional teaching, student outcomes and overall environment.
  • Wirral Grammar School for Boys ranks 238th nationally in the same Sunday Times Parent Power list. It currently holds an overall “good” rating from Ofsted and remains a popular choice among families in the region.

Looking for more grammar options? Here are the best grammar schools in London and the UK.

What’s the structure of the 11+ exam in Wirral and Liverpool?

One of the most important things to understand about grammar schools is the 11+ entrance exam, which is used by most selective schools (including private schools). 

This exam assesses a child’s academic ability in subjects like English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning. It’s typically taken in Year 6, and results determine whether a child is eligible for entry into the grammar of their choice.

Liverpool and Wirral 11 Plus: Exam Format and Content

In the Wirral, four grammar schools use the Wirral Admissions Test. This includes:

  • Calday Grange Grammar School
  • West Kirby Grammar School
  • Wirral Grammar School for Girls
  • Wirral Grammar School for Boys

The Wirral Admissions Test is made up of two papers, both taken on the same day with a quick break in between. The tests are created by GL Assessment.

These papers test students’ abilities in:

  • Verbal Reasoning: How well your child can use logic to solve problems with words, letters and numbers. It’s all about spotting patterns, rules, and similarities—tricky stuff they won’t usually learn at primary school.
  • Non-Verbal Reasoning: Think shapes, diagrams and puzzles. These questions test how your child processes visual information and uses logical thinking, even though it’s not something taught in class.
  • Maths: Covers all the usual Key Stage 2 topics like numbers, shapes and graphs—but with some tougher problems thrown in to see how well your child can think on their feet.

For schools like St Anselm’s College, Upton Hall and The Blue Coat School in Liverpool, their versions of the 11+ exam include similar components, although the exact format varies. Each school publishes further information about its test and key deadlines:

Liverpool and Wirral 11 Plus: Age-Standardised Scoring and Pass Marks

No matter which grammar you’re aiming for, 11+ exam results are age-standardised. This means scores are adjusted to account for your child’s age (in years and months), making the process as fair as possible.

What’s the 11+ pass mark in Wirral?

For the Wirral Admissions Test, students must hit a minimum “qualifying score” to be considered for a grammar school place. This score, typically around 236 across both papers, is set by the Local Admissions Authority and varies each year based on overall performance. Generally, achieving this score places your child in the top 20% of candidates.

However, grammar schools are almost always oversubscribed. When this happens, other priority factors come into play, such as:

  • How close you live to the school
  • Whether your child has siblings already attending
  • Children of staff working at the school
  • Priority for “Looked After” children or those receiving free school meals

Liverpool and Wirral 11 Plus: Key Dates for 2025/26

The exact dates for 2026 entry haven’t been announced yet, but here’s a general timeline to help you plan:

  • Registration for Testing: April to June
  • 11 Plus Exams: Mid-September
  • Results Released: Mid-October
  • Application Deadline: End of October
  • National Offer Day: Early March

Make sure to double-check with your chosen school and the local authority for updates. For the Wirral Admissions Test, stick with the Local Authority’s timeline, but for schools like The Blue Coat that set their own tests, check directly with them to stay on track!

Need to know other application and exam dates? Check out our full guide to 11+ deadlines across the UK.

What’s the hardest grammar school to get into?

Competition for places at grammar schools in Liverpool and the Wirral is intense. While all these schools uphold high academic standards, some are particularly challenging to get into due to their strong reputations and high demand.

  • The Blue Coat School in Liverpool is regarded as one of the toughest grammar schools to secure a place at. Known for its outstanding academic results and prestigious history, it attracts hundreds (if not thousands) of applicants each year. Unlike many other schools in the area, The Blue Coat sets its own admissions test and ranks students on their performance. This means only top scorers are offered a place, making it fiercely competitive.
  • Similarly, Wirral Grammar School for Boys and Wirral Grammar School for Girls are highly sought after by families across the region. Both schools have excellent reputations, offer a broad curriculum and cater to a wide catchment area. With so many applicants vying for limited places, even students who pass the 11+ exam may find it challenging to secure admission.

If you’re considering these schools as your top choice, thorough preparation for the 11+ is essential. Achieving a high score—or at least the qualifying mark—is the first step. However, it’s important to remember that pass marks vary each year, based on the performance of all candidates.

Are you applying to Liverpool or Wirral grammar schools?

Liverpool and the Wirral are home to some amazing grammar schools, from Liverpool’s prestigious Blue Coat School to the six highly regarded options across Wirral. With so many great choices, there’s plenty to think about when deciding what’s right for your child.

No matter which schools are on your list, getting ahead with preparation makes all the difference. Starting early and having a clear plan will help you navigate the process with confidence.

That’s where Achieve Learning comes in. With expert 11 Plus tuition, realistic mock tests and tailored academic advice, we’ll help your child feel ready to take on the challenge and succeed.

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Grammar Schools in Peterborough: Everything You Need to Know

When it comes to secondary schools in Peterborough, it can be tricky to figure out your options—especially if you’re hoping for something like a grammar school. While Peterborough doesn’t have traditional grammar schools, it does have The King’s (The Cathedral) School, a partially-selective state school with a strong academic reputation. 

If you’re weighing up school choices for your child, understanding what’s available in Peterborough is essential. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about The King’s School, from its history and admissions process to its academic and pastoral reputation. We’ll also explore nearby private schools and the wider range of Peterborough state schools. 

With a thorough understanding of secondary options, we’ll help you make the best choice for your child’s future.

Does Peterborough have grammar schools?

No, Peterborough doesn’t have any grammar schools. However, it is home to The King’s (The Cathedral) School, which is partially-selective and known for its excellent academic results. There are also several outstanding state and private schools in and around Peterborough (such as The Peterborough School and Fulbridge Academy), giving plenty of options.

To help you understand secondary school options in Peterborough, we’ll first introduce The King’s (The Cathedral) School—before looking at wider state and private options.

A brief history of The King’s School

The King’s School has a history dating back to 1541, when it was founded by King Henry VIII. Originally established as the Cathedral School, with responsibility for educating choristers, it developed into a larger grammar school for boys, providing boarding facilities. 

Over time, the school evolved to admit girls and students of all abilities. King’s became comprehensive and coeducational in 1976. Throughout these changes, the school’s mission has always been providing top-notch education while maintaining close ties to Peterborough Cathedral. 

Today, The King’s School is an academy with a reputation for academic success and a strong community ethos. As well as secondary provision, there’s also a junior department in the old boarding building. 

The School’s historic setting near Peterborough Cathedral adds to its unique character. As a Church of England Academy and the designated Cathedral School, King’s still provides opportunities for students to engage in prayer, reflection and worship within the school community.

Notable alumni (known as “Old Petriburgians”) include the Foreign Secretary David Lammy MP, the Jacobean dramatist John Fletcher and Andy Bell, the lead singer of synth-pop band Erasure.

Is The King’s School Peterborough a grammar school?

Not quite. While The King’s School used to be a grammar school, it transitioned to a comprehensive model in 1976. It’s now an independent state-funded academy. Its partial selectivity—offering a small number of places based on academic and musical aptitude—sets it apart from other state schools. But it doesn’t follow the traditional grammar school model.

Here’s how the admissions process works in more detail:

The King’s School admissions process

The school admits students through a combination of admissions priorities, such as catchment area, involvement with Church of England worship and whether siblings already attend (among other factors). 

As well as these “standard” admissions (covering around 135 students in Year 7), King’s also provides opportunities for academically and musically gifted pupils. 

Academic ability: 12 places available

To apply for an academic place at King’s, students take the Governors’ Entrance Exam, which tests English, Maths and Verbal Reasoning. They need a minimum score of 40 out of 58 to qualify, with places going to the highest scorers first. 

Sample exam papers and answer sheets are available on The King’s School website

To help you prepare for 11 Plus Verbal Reasoning and English papers, we’ve also compiled an 11+ reading list as well as tips on using powerful adjectives, expanding vocabulary, and writing engaging character descriptions.

Music ability: 3 places available

Auditions for music places at King’s are carried out by the Music staff. During the audition, candidates:

Perform a piece of their choice on their main instrument or voice. They can also perform a second piece on another instrument.

Complete aural tests, which may include:

  • Repeating a melody
  • Clapping a rhythm
  • Identifying time signatures or beats in a bar

Performances are scored based on the difficulty of the music and its quality. Places are offered to the top three scoring applicants.

Exploring grammar schools further afield? Discover some of the best options in London, Birmingham, Kent and throughout the UK.

Is The King’s School Peterborough private?

No, The King’s School Peterborough isn’t a private school. It’s a state-funded academy, meaning it’s free for students to attend. King’s is an “independent academy school” because it operates autonomously from the local authority and doesn’t follow “standard” admissions procedures. However, it is not an independent (fee-paying) school.

This distinction sometimes causes confusion, so here’s a quick breakdown:

  • Private Schools: Fully funded by parents’ tuition fees, receiving no state funding. They’re often called independent schools and have control over their curriculum and admissions.
  • Grammar Schools: State-funded schools that are academically selective, requiring students to pass the 11+ exam. They’re free to attend but have specific academic entry criteria.
  • Academies: State-funded schools with more flexibility in areas like curriculum and budget. Some academies have selective admissions policies, such as those based on faith, academic or musical ability, or may focus on specific areas like STEM, the arts or sports.
  • Comprehensive Schools: State-funded schools that are non-selective, meaning they accept students regardless of academic ability and serve all children in their local area.

In short, The King’s School uniquely combines the accessibility of a state-funded education with the independence and academic focus associated with private and grammar schools.

What’s the ranking of The King’s School Peterborough?

According to The School Guide, The King’s School currently ranks 93rd out of all secondary schools in the UK. This places it among the top-performing state schools in the country.

As well as a special focus on music, drama and sports, King’s GCSE and A Level results are impressive. In 2024, 75% of students achieved at least a grade 5 in GCSE English and Maths. And at A Level, 93% of pupils secured A* to C grades.

King’s School has also earned an outstanding rating from Ofsted. In the latest report, one parent summed up the ethos perfectly: “There’s a great partnership between home, school and students. We couldn’t ask for more.”

Why are there no grammar schools in Cambridgeshire?

So you may wonder, why exactly are there no grammar schools in Peterborough? Or for that matter, Cambridgeshire as a whole?

Well, Cambridgeshire doesn’t have grammar schools because of decisions made back in the 1960s and 1970s. When the Labour government pushed for a system where all students could attend non-selective, comprehensive schools, many areas, including Cambridgeshire, made the switch. The idea was to give everyone an equal shot at education, no matter their academic ability.

Some counties, like Essex and Buckinghamshire, held onto their grammar schools, but Cambridgeshire followed the trend of moving towards a comprehensive system. So, over time, grammar schools were phased out, and now the county operates a non-selective system.

How many secondary schools are in Peterborough?

There are approximately 16 secondary schools in Peterborough. This includes one private school (The Peterborough School) and 15 state-funded schools such as The King’s (The Cathedral) School and the Fulbridge Academy. There are no grammar schools in Peterborough, but there are some outstanding private schools within an hour’s drive.

You’ll also find several Further Education Colleges and schools catering to special needs, listed on Peterborough council’s website.

Here’s a breakdown of your options.

Private secondary schools near Peterborough

If you’re looking into private secondary options around Peterborough, you’re in luck. While Peterborough itself only has The Peterborough School, there are some excellent schools all within an hour’s drive. These institutions (such as Oundle School and Wisbech Grammar) offer day and boarding options, academic rigour and a variety of extracurricular activities. 

Here are five of the best private secondary schools near Peterborough.

1. The Peterborough School

  • Address: Thorpe Road, Peterborough, PE3 6AP
  • Distance from Peterborough: Right in the heart of Peterborough
  • School Size: About 530 students
  • Pupil Ages: 1-18 years
  • Type: Co-Ed, Day

Located in the centre of Peterborough, this prestigious school offers a well-rounded education with a focus on academic achievement and personal growth. With a range of extracurricular activities, students can explore their talents outside of the classroom too. It’s a solid choice for those wanting private education without leaving the city.

2. Oundle School

  • Address: New Street, Oundle, Northamptonshire, PE8 4GH
  • Distance from Peterborough: 14 miles away (about a 25-minute drive)
  • School Size: Around 1,100 students
  • Pupil Ages: 11-18 years
  • Type: Co-Ed, Day and Boarding

If you’re looking for a school with history, Oundle is one of the oldest and most prestigious around. Known for its strong academic reputation, Oundle offers both day and boarding options. It’s also set in a gorgeous town just a short drive from Peterborough. The school is perfect for students wanting to push themselves in a range of subjects amidst beautiful and historic settings.

3. Kimbolton School

  • Address: Kimbolton, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, PE28 0EA
  • Distance from Peterborough: Around 30 miles (about a 40-minute drive)
  • School Size: About 1,100 students
  • Pupil Ages: 4-18 years
  • Type: Co-Ed, Day and Boarding

Kimbolton School has been around since 1541, offering a fantastic mix of academics, sports and arts. With both day and boarding options, offering an “innovative yet down-to-earth education” it’s a flexible choice for families in the area. The beautiful campus and the emphasis on both academic excellence and personal development make it a standout school.

4. Wisbech Grammar School

  • Address: Chapel Road, Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, PE13 1RH
  • Distance from Peterborough: 22 miles (around 35 minutes by car)
  • School Size: About 600 students
  • Pupil Ages: 2-18 years
  • Type: Co-Ed, Day and Boarding

Wisbech Grammar School is a vibrant community where purpose and passion drive everything they do. As one of the country’s oldest academically selective day schools (with a history dating back to 1379), they have a proud tradition of excellence. In September 2019, they expanded their offering by opening their International Boarding House.

5. King’s Ely

 

  • Address: Barton Road, Ely, Cambridgeshire, CB7 4DB
  • Distance from Peterborough: 30 miles (roughly 50 minutes by car)
  • School Size: Around 1,100 students
  • Pupil Ages: 2-18 years
  • Type: Co-Ed, Day and Boarding

With a history going back to the 10th century, King’s Ely is one of the oldest schools in the UK. Located in the historic city of Ely, it’s got an academic reputation to match, offering both day and boarding options. The school’s strong sense of tradition, combined with modern facilities and a wide range of extracurricular activities, makes it an excellent choice.

State secondary schools in Peterborough

If you’re considering secondary schools in and around Peterborough, there are plenty of options catering to a range of academic interests and personal needs. So whether you’re looking for a school with a strong academic track record or one specialising in technical education and pastoral support, there’s plenty to choose from.

Here’s your complete list of secondary schools in Peterborough. Click through to head to each school’s homepage. For primary schools, Further Education Colleges and Special Schools, head to Peterborough council’s website.

In summary: are grammar schools worth it?

Grammar schools can be a fantastic choice, but they’re not the only path to success. Comprehensive schools, selective academies and private schools all provide excellent opportunities, depending on what suits your child best. It’s all about finding the right fit for their individual needs.

Choosing the right school can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to tackle it alone. Achieve Learning offers personalised 11+ tuition, realistic mock exams and expert academic coaching to give your child the tools to thrive. Contact us today to find out how we can support your journey.

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The Best Private Schools in Harrow: Your Complete Guide

Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions a parent can make. But if you’re considering private education in or near Harrow, you’re in luck. It’s home to many excellent schools catering to different needs, aspirations and age groups.

Whether you’re looking for a nurturing primary school or a prestigious secondary with an international reputation and excellent GCSE and A Level results, Harrow and its surrounding areas have it all.

This parents’ guide provides an in-depth look at private schools in Harrow. We’ve got a complete overview of your options (covering private primary and secondary schools in and around Harrow) as well as answers to commonly asked questions.

By the end of this article, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of what Harrow’s private schools offer and how to make the best choice for your family.

The best private schools in Harrow: Your complete list

Harrow boasts an impressive selection of private schools. Some (like Harrow School and Orley Farm) are steeped in tradition, offering centuries-old values and excellent academics. You’ll also find newer institutions (like Harmony Primary and St Gregory’s Catholic Science College) providing innovative teaching and strong pastoral care. So whatever your family’s needs, budget and preferences, you’ll find a suitable school.

To keep things simple, we’ve broken it down into private primary schools and private secondary schools (including sixth-form colleges) in and around Harrow. While many are situated within the borough, a few neighbouring Hertfordshire schools are too highly regarded to leave off this list.

Private primary schools in Harrow

Alpha Preparatory School

  • Address: 19-21 Hindes Road, Harrow, HA1 1SH
  • Gender/Ages: Co-educational, 3–11 years
  • Size: Approximately 150 pupils
  • Day/Boarding: Day

Alpha Prep has been a cornerstone of early education in Harrow for over five decades. This small, nurturing school prides itself on preparing students for top secondary schools through a carefully tailored curriculum.

It’s not all about academics, though. Alpha Prep champions creative and sporting activities, helping children develop confidence alongside their skills. Parents often highlight the school’s family-like atmosphere, where every child is treated as an individual.

Buckingham Preparatory School

  • Address: 458 Rayners Lane, Pinner, HA5 5DT
  • Gender/Ages: Boys, 2–11 years
  • Size: Around 100 pupils
  • Day/Boarding: Day

Buckingham Prep is where tradition meets innovation, catering to boys aged 2 to 11 with an engaging and dynamic education. For decades, the school has built a reputation for balancing rigorous academics with enriching extracurriculars.

Beyond its stellar 11+ and SATs results, the school is proud of its focus on character development. Coding, sports and performing arts are just a few highlights of its varied curriculum. Headteacher Michael Doyle is passionate about fostering independence and resilience, creating a warm environment where boys thrive.

Harmony Primary School

  • Address: 80 Gayton Rd, Harrow, HA1 2LS
  • Gender/Ages: Co-educational, 4–11 years
  • Size: Approximately 65 pupils
  • Day/Boarding: Day

Harmony Primary is a breath of fresh air in modern education, blending academics with mindfulness and creativity. With a unique approach incorporating yoga and collaborative learning, it’s no wonder this school has quickly gained popularity in the area.

Harmony takes pride in fostering emotionally intelligent, confident learners. The school strongly encourages a supportive and innovative environment, emphasising that success comes from nurturing the whole child, not just their grades.

Holland House School

  • Address: 1 Broadhurst Avenue, Edgware, HA8 8TP
  • Gender/Ages: Co-educational, 4–11 years
  • Size: About 145 pupils
  • Day/Boarding: Day

Nestled in Edgware, this charming prep school has guided young learners since 1937. Holland House is all about small class sizes and a tailored approach to education, ensuring that every child’s potential is recognised and nurtured.

Renowned for its excellent 11+ preparation, the school is equally passionate about instilling core values like kindness and respect. Under Headteacher Mrs Emily Brown’s leadership, Holland House strikes the perfect balance between academic ambition and a supportive environment. As they proudly say, it’s a small school with “huge character”!

Orley Farm School

  • Address: South Hill Avenue, Harrow, HA1 3NU
  • Gender/Ages: Co-educational, 4–13 years
  • Size: Approximately 500 pupils
  • Day/Boarding: Day

Orley Farm is a school with a story. Established in 1850, it’s evolved into one of Harrow’s most prestigious preparatory schools. What sets it apart? Well, how does a 34-acre campus combining tradition with modern facilities like forest school and cutting-edge art and music rooms sound?

The school doesn’t just focus on grades, although these are great too. It’s about resilience, curiosity and preparing pupils for life. Headmaster Tim Calvey is known for his heartfelt belief in helping children discover their strengths – a passion that shines through in Orley Farm’s vibrant, inclusive culture.

Reddiford School

  • Address: 36-38 Cecil Park, Pinner, HA5 5HH
  • Gender/Ages: Co-educational, 3–11 years
  • Size: Around 265 pupils
  • Day/Boarding: Day

Reddiford isn’t just a school; it’s a community with over 100 years of history. The school has a strong reputation for academic excellence and strong SATs scores. With “unashamedly high expectations”, they send pupils to some of the country’s top secondary schools.

Beyond academics, music, drama, and sports are woven into school life, ensuring a rich and diverse experience for every child. The school fosters a supportive and happy environment, encouraging pupils to embrace challenges and think creatively.

Nearing the end of primary and thinking about 11 Plus exams for your child? If so, we’ve got everything you need: a complete introduction to 11 Plus exams, mock tests, key deadlines, 11+ reading lists, a guide to non-verbal reasoning and more.

Private secondary schools in Harrow

Harrow School

  • Address: 5 High Street, Harrow, HA1 3HP
  • Gender/Ages: Boys, 13–18 years
  • Size: Around 830 pupils
  • Day/Boarding: Boarding

With its iconic uniforms and a history stretching back to 1572, Harrow School is nothing short of legendary. Famous alumni include Sir Winston Churchill and a host of other influential figures. But Harrow isn’t just about tradition – it offers a world-class education with top-tier academics, vibrant extracurriculars and a boarding experience like no other. Each of its 12 houses has its own unique culture, fostering lifelong friendships and healthy rivalry.

Harrow Independent Sixth Form College

  • Address: 308–310 Eastcote Lane, South Harrow, HA2 9AH
  • Gender/Ages: Co-educational, 16–18 years
  • Size: Approximately 15 students
  • Day/Boarding: Day

Specialising in Sixth Form education, this tiny college offers a personalized approach to A-Level studies. With small class sizes and tailored teaching, Harrow Independent helps students maximise their potential and prepare for top university placements. It’s a popular choice for those looking for focused academic support, with an environment that balances rigorous study with a supportive ethos.

John Lyon School

  • Address: Middle Road, Harrow, HA2 0HN
  • Gender/Ages: Co-educational, 11–18 years
  • Size: Around 860 pupils
  • Day/Boarding: Day

John Lyon School offers the best of both worlds: a close connection to the prestigious Harrow School and the flexibility of a day-school format. With a history dating back to 1876, John Lyon combines a rich heritage with a forward-thinking approach.

The school recently expanded into co-education, adding a fresh dynamic to its already vibrant community. Whether it’s through drama, art or academics, students here are encouraged to find their passion.

Merchant Taylors’ School

  • Address: Sandy Lodge, Northwood, HA6 2HT
  • Gender/Ages: Boys, 11–18 years
  • Size: Around 960 pupils
  • Day/Boarding: Day

One of the oldest and most prestigious schools in the UK, Merchant Taylors’ has been providing first-rate education since 1561. Its sprawling Northwood campus boasts exceptional facilities for academics, sports and the arts.

The school is especially known for its tradition of producing scholars and leaders across a variety of fields. Headmaster Simon Everson places a strong emphasis on community, ensuring students leave not just academically accomplished but also socially conscious and grounded.

North London Collegiate School (NLCS)

  • Address: Canons, Canons Drive, Edgware, HA8 7RJ
  • Gender/Ages: Girls, 4–18 years
  • Size: Approximately 1100 pupils
  • Day/Boarding: Day (boarding available for Sixth Form)

Founded in 1850 by education pioneer Frances Mary Buss, NLCS has consistently been one of the UK’s leading independent schools for girls. Amidst stunning grounds on Canons Drive, the school offers an inspiring environment where academic achievement and personal growth go hand in hand.

NLCS prides itself on fostering intellectual curiosity, with many students excelling in IB and A-Level programs. Drama, music and sports are also integral to school life, offering students an enriching, well-rounded education.

Northwood College for Girls

  • Address: Maxwell Road, Northwood, HA6 2YE
  • Gender/Ages: Girls, 4–18
  • Size: Approximately 880 students
  • Day/Boarding: Day school

Northwood College for Girls is a well-established independent day school in Northwood, offering a holistic education for girls aged 4–18. The school is renowned for its strong academic reputation, consistently achieving excellent results at GCSE and A Level. It places a strong emphasis on personal development, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education where girls think critically, develop confidence, and are set-up for future success – whether at university or in their chosen career.

St Gregory’s Catholic Science College

  • Address: Donnington Road, Kenton, Harrow, HA3 0NB
  • Gender/Ages: Co-educational, 11–18 years
  • Size: Around 1100 pupils
  • Day/Boarding: Day

This well-regarded Catholic school focuses on combining strong academic performance with a faith-based approach to education. Known for its emphasis on STEM subjects, St Gregory’s prepares students to excel in both academics and moral values. Its science programs are a particular highlight, featuring modern labs and dedicated teaching staff. Although it’s rooted in Catholic values, St Gregory’s fosters a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere where students of all faiths feel supported.

St Helen’s School

  • Address: Eastbury Road, Northwood, HA6 3AS
  • Gender/Ages: Girls, 3–18 years
  • Size: Around 1200 pupils
  • Day/Boarding: Day

Tucked away in Northwood, St Helen’s is renowned for fostering academic brilliance and self-assuredness in girls. Founded in 1899, the school offers a nurturing yet challenging environment, where students are encouraged to aim high and think critically. Its campus blends traditional charm with modern facilities, including an impressive performing arts centre.

Headmistress Mrs Bridget Ward is passionate about cultivating curiosity, kindness and leadership skills in every student. She describes a school that “believes in your daughter and her individual potential, creativity and ability”, making St Helen’s a holistic and inspiring place to learn.

Other top secondary schools near Harrow

  • Aldenham School (Elstree): Aldenham School is set on a beautiful 100-acre campus, offering students a mix of traditional and modern facilities. Founded in 1597, Aldenham is one of the UK’s oldest independent schools.
  • Haberdashers’ Aske’s School for Girls (Elstree): A beacon of academic excellence since its founding in 1875, Haberdashers’ for Girls (often called “Habs”) offers a rich curriculum that extends far beyond the classroom.
  • Haberdashers’ Aske’s School for Boys (Elstree): Located adjacent to its sister school and dating back to 1690, Habs Boys offers a vibrant academic environment for boys, combining tradition with innovation.
  • North London Grammar School (Barnet): Despite the name, it’s an outstanding private school known for its small class sizes and strong academic outcomes.
  • St Margaret’s School (Bushey): St Margaret’s School is a small but vibrant independent girls’ school that’s fostered a close-knit community since its founding in 1749. Known for its supportive atmosphere, St Margaret’s offers a personalised education that nurtures individual talents.
  • St Albans School (St Albans): Known for its outstanding academic results and rich history dating back to the 10th century, St Albans School is one of the UK’s top independent schools. Just a short commute from Harrow, the school remains a firm favourite among discerning parents.

If you’re considering schools further afield, don’t miss our guide to the best private schools and grammar schools in the UK, as well as London school rankings.

Private schools in Harrow: Commonly asked questions

How many Grammar Schools are there in Harrow?

While Harrow is home to some of the most prestigious private schools in the country, it doesn’t have any grammar schools. This can be a disappointment for parents looking for state-funded selective education within the area.

If you’re set on a grammar school for your child, there are fantastic options just a short drive away. For example, Barnet is home to two of the UK’s most renowned grammar schools: Queen Elizabeth’s School for Boys and Henrietta Barnett School for Girls. Both schools have a long history of excellence in academics and consistently rank among the top schools in the country.

You’ll also find St Michael’s Catholic Grammar School in Barnet and Latymer School in nearby Edmonton. Although it’s a bit more travel, there’s also the Slough Consortium of Grammar Schools – a group of four outstanding grammars all within driving distance from Harrow.

For a more in-depth look, don’t miss our guide to state-funded Grammar Schools near Harrow, as well as the top Grammars in Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Barnet, Watford, North London and the capital.

What’s the famous Harrow School?

If you’ve heard of Harrow School, you probably already know it’s one of the most prestigious boarding schools in the world. Known for its imposing architecture, centuries-old traditions, and notable alumni, Harrow is as famous for academic rigour as it is for producing leaders, thinkers and public figures.

Harrow has educated generations of British Prime Ministers, including Winston Churchill and Stanley Baldwin, as well as numerous other notable figures in politics, entertainment and business.

The school offers a top-notch education for boys aged 13–18, with a strong emphasis on academic excellence, sports and the arts. Whether competing in traditional events like the Harrow vs Eton cricket match or participating in the school’s extensive extracurricular offerings, Harrow School provides a well-rounded education that’s hard to beat.

What’s Harrow private school ranked?

Harrow School consistently ranks among the top independent schools in the UK. With a proud legacy of academic excellence, Harrow ranks 30th for private boys’ schools in the UK and 12th for boys’ boarding schools.

Its alumni network is unparalleled, offering current students opportunities that few other schools can match. The school is also known for offering a balanced education focusing not only on traditional academic subjects, but fostering leadership, personal growth, sports, music and a sense of community – cementing its position as one of the best schools in the UK.

How much does Harrow private school cost?

Harrow School is renowned for its excellent facilities, world-class teaching and unique traditions. But such luxury doesn’t come cheap. Tuition fees start at £20,528 a term, which covers accommodation, meals, and extracurricular activities.

This means you’re looking at over £60,000 a year. Although this may sound incredibly expensive, it’s roughly in line with other top-tier boarding schools in the UK.

If finances are an issue, it’s worth talking with the admissions team about bursaries and scholarships – available for academically gifted and promising students.

What’s the number one private school in the UK?

The title of “number one private school” in the UK shifts, with different schools excelling in different areas such as academic achievement, extracurricular success or prestige. That said, some schools consistently sit near the top of UK school rankings.

Eton College, one of the most famous names in British education, often claims the top spot in terms of prestige – due to its unmatched history, extensive alumni network and rigorous academic standards. Westminster School is another heavy hitter, frequently appearing near the top of rankings for its excellent GCSE and A Level results. Similarly, St Paul’s School, with its exceptional academic standards and focus on holistic education, is often listed as one of the top private schools in the UK.

Here are the current top private schools in the UK:

These private schools offer top-tier academics but also a wealth of extracurricular activities (from rowing and rugby to drama and debating), preparing students for life at leading universities.

What’s the hardest private school to get into in the UK?

Admission to schools like Westminster, Eton College, St Paul’s (boys) and St Paul’s Girls’ School is notoriously competitive. These schools have highly selective entrance exams, interviews, and application processes that demand academic excellence as well as extra-curricular involvement.

Eton College, for example, has an incredibly selective entry process. Students must take a range of exams in subjects such as English, Maths and reasoning. Along with academic ability, students are assessed for their character, potential and leadership qualities during a rigorous interview. As you can imagine, only the best and brightest students are admitted.

The admission process for all these schools combines academic testing, personal statement reviews and interviews – all aimed at identifying students who’ll thrive in a challenging, prestigious environment.

Are you looking at schools in Harrow for your child?

Harrow and its surrounding areas offer a fantastic range of private schools, each with its own distinct ethos and character. From the globally renowned Harrow School to smaller gems like Reddiford and Harmony Primary, there’s a school to suit every child’s needs.

Choosing the right school can be a daunting task, but with the right information, you’ll make a confident decision that aligns with your family’s needs, values and aspirations.

If you need guidance on the right fit for your child, support with 11+ exams, GCSE English and Maths preparation or general academic coaching, reach out to Achieve Learning. We’re here to support your child with the tools they need to succeed.

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What Are GCSEs? Your Complete Guide to GCSE Exams

GCSEs: Four little letters, one big milestone.

Whether you’re a parent wondering what’s ahead for your child, a student gearing up for the challenge, or someone new to the UK education system, GCSEs are bound to come up in conversation. But what are GCSEs exactly? And why do they matter so much?

In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about GCSEs. From what the initials stand for to how long they take, the number of exams involved and which subjects students find the trickiest – we’ve got it covered. These exams aren’t just a box-ticking exercise; they pave the way to A Levels, university and future opportunities.

Ready to demystify GCSEs? Let’s dive in. No confusing jargon, just clear and helpful answers!

What are GCSEs?

GCSEs (or General Certificates of Secondary Education), are qualifications that students in England, Wales and Northern Ireland take at the end of secondary school, usually around age 16. Most students take between seven and ten subjects. Think of them as the first big academic milestone, a stepping stone to further education, apprenticeships or straight into work.

Students typically study GCSEs in a mix of core subjects (like English Language, English Literature, Maths and Science) and optional subjects that suit their interests. For instance, they could study Art, Geography, History, German or Computer Science… the list goes on!

Although there are sometimes coursework and practical assignments, GCSEs are primarily assessed through exams.

There are five main GCSE exam boards in the UK:

  • AQA: The largest board, with a reputation for fair and straightforward assessments.
  • Edexcel: Run by Pearson, providing modern resources and “excellence in education”.
  • OCR: Known for its innovative exam formats and in-depth course content.
  • WJEC/Eduqas: Primarily for students in Wales. As a core component of WJEC, Eduqas provides qualifications for students in England.
  • CCEA: Focusing on Northern Ireland’s curriculum, examinations and assessments.

While each board’s assessments differ in style, the qualifications hold the same weight. They’re all assessed fairly and impartially. So a Maths GCSE is just as respected whether you studied with AQA or Edexcel.

It’s normally secondary schools that choose GCSE exam boards. But if you’re homeschooling, the choice is up to you.

What does GCSE stand for?

So, GCSE stands for General Certificate of Secondary Education. These are the exams students sit around 16 years old, marking the end of compulsory secondary education. But where does the name come from?

Before 1988, students took either O Levels (more academic) or CSEs (more vocational). GCSEs combined the two, creating a fairer system where students could demonstrate their abilities through a standard qualification.

The phrase “General Certificate” reflects the broad range of subjects and skills tested, while “Secondary Education” cements its place at the end of compulsory schooling. Essentially, GCSEs replaced a fragmented system with a unified one, where students could excel in both academic and practical subjects.

What do GCSEs actually do?

On the surface, GCSEs are a set of exams. But they’re much more than that. These exams build skills, prepare students for the future and showcase what they’ve learned during their secondary school years. For instance, a student who excels in GCSE Science could move on to A Levels in Chemistry or Biology, eventually leading to a career in fields like medicine or environmental science.

Even if university isn’t the goal, good GCSE grades (especially in core subjects like English and Maths) equip students with essential life skills, boost their confidence and open doors to post-16 options like apprenticeships, vocational training or employment. These grades often serve as a benchmark for employers (particularly in competitive fields like Law or Accounting), showing proficiency in key areas.

In short, here’s what GCSEs aim to achieve:

  • Core competencies: Literacy and numeracy are crucial for everyday life, which is why English and Maths are mandatory.
  • Specialist knowledge: Subjects like Physics, History, or Art let students explore areas of personal interest and develop expertise.
  • Critical thinking: Writing essays, solving problems, and analysing data build analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Preparation for further study: GCSEs pave the way for A Levels, BTECs, apprenticeships, or other qualifications that further shape a student’s career path.

Whether you’re pursuing a specific career, building transferable skills or finding out what you enjoy, GCSEs set the stage for what comes next.

How many years is the GCSE?

GCSEs are usually studied over two years – Year 10 and Year 11 of secondary school (ages 14–16). Exams normally happen at the end of Year 11, across May, June and July.

However, schools can approach this timeline differently.

Some schools start introducing GCSE topics in Year 9, giving students an extra year to build their knowledge. Others hold some GCSE exams early, so students can get a few subjects under their belt.

For adult learners or home-schooled students, GCSE study time varies. It all depends on how quickly you learn the material.

Is GCSE Year 10 or Year 11?

It’s both! GCSE study is usually split over two years. In most secondary schools, students begin their courses in Year 10 and take exams at the end of Year 11.

In Year 10, students tackle the bulk of the syllabus and often complete coursework. By Year 11, the focus shifts to exam preparation, with plenty of revision and mock tests.

For private candidates (either as part of homeschooling or adult learning), GCSEs can be taken at any age by registering at an exam centre.

How many subjects are in GCSE?

Most students take between seven and ten GCSEs, although there’s no official cap. The minimum requirement is usually four or five subjects, including English Language and Maths. English Literature and Science (either double award or triple award) are also normally set as “core” subjects by most schools.

Here’s a breakdown of your options:

  • Core subjects: Usually including English Language, English Literature, Maths and Science (combined or triple).
  • Humanities: History, Religious Studies or Geography are popular choices.
  • Creative and technical subjects: Such as Fine Art, Drama, Music, Food and Nutrition or Design Technology.
  • Modern Languages: For instance, French, Spanish, German, Mandarin or Arabic.
  • Specialist subjects: Like Psychology, Business Studies, Computer Science or Economics.

If your school doesn’t offer a subject you’re interested in, chat with the Head of Year. They might be able to advise on private tuition, lessons at a nearby school or testing arrangements – either at school or a local exam centre.

What’s the difference between A Levels and GCSEs?

The key difference between GCSEs and A Levels lies in how much depth and focus they require. GCSEs (or IGCSEs) are like a taster menu, offering students a broad selection of subjects to try. Think of them as the foundation of education, where you learn the basics of everything from Maths and English to Science and the Arts. The aim is to give you a well-rounded knowledge base and a chance to discover what you enjoy.

In contrast, A Levels are more like the main course. At this stage, you get to narrow your focus to three or four subjectsthat truly interest you or align with your future plans. For example, if you’re passionate about a career in finance, your A Levels might include Maths, Further Maths and Economics. If you’re leaning toward legal studies, you might choose subjects like English Literature and History.

Another big difference is the level of independence and critical thinking involved. GCSEs often focus on understanding and applying foundational knowledge, while A Levels require you to analyse, evaluate and form your own opinions. The essays get longer, the problems get trickier, and the discussions get more complex. You’ll also find that A Levels involve more independent study, preparing you for the kind of self-directed learning you’ll encounter at university or in your career.

Why do GCSEs and A Levels matter?

GCSEs give you a solid foundation to build on and help you keep your options open. They’re like a safety net. If you change your mind about what you want to study later, you’ve got the basics covered in most areas.

A Levels, on the other hand, are a springboard to your future. They’re not just about learning more; they’re starting to define who you are and where you want to go. Whether it’s preparing for university, an apprenticeship or diving straight into work, A Levels give you the chance to refine your skills and showcase your strengths.

Is a 7 Good in GCSE?

Absolutely! A 7 is an excellent GCSE grade, roughly equivalent to an A in the old GCSE grading system. Achieving a 7 means you’ve performed at a high level and are well above the national average. In 2024, only 22.6% of students achieved a grade 7 or higher, making it something to be proud of.

To put that in perspective, about 67.4% of students achieved a grade 4 (that’s a pass).

A grade 7 demonstrates not only strong subject knowledge but also the ability to perform well under exam conditions. It’s important for students pursuing A Levels or other further education, as many sixth-forms set entry requirements around grade 6 or 7 for certain subjects.

To give you the full picture, here’s how the new 9–1 grading system compares to the old A*–G system:

New Grade Old Grade
9 Higher than A*
8 A*
7 A
6 High B
5 Low B / High C
4 C
3 D / E
2 F
1 G

Can you go to uni without GCSEs?

The short answer is: it’s challenging, but it’s definitely not impossible. While most universities set GCSE requirements (typically a Grade 4 in English and Maths) there are options. It might take extra effort and planning, but with determination, you can still achieve your university ambitions.

What do universities usually expect?

Most universities expect applicants to have a Grade 4 in GCSE English Language and Maths. These core subjects are considered essential for academic success and everyday life. Some courses, like medicine or economics, may also require specific GCSEs (such as Science or Maths) at higher grades.

But what if you don’t have these grades? Or any GCSEs at all?

It’s worth looking at GCSE retakes in the first instance. But there are alternative routes:

Alternative pathways to university

  • Functional Skills Qualifications: Practical, skills-based qualifications equivalent to GCSEs in English and Maths. Especially useful for mature students or those returning to education after a break.
  • Access to Higher Education courses: Perfect for adults without traditional qualifications who want to prepare for university. These courses focus on developing subject-specific skills and knowledge for your chosen field.
  • University Foundation Years: Some universities offer foundation years as part of their degree programs. These are designed for students who don’t meet the standard entry requirements but show potential.
  • Equivalent Qualifications: If you’re planning to pursue A Levels or vocational courses like BTECs, you may need to complete equivalent qualifications first. Options include resitting GCSEs or taking Level 2 Diplomas.

If you’re navigating this path, check university entry requirements and speak with admissions tutors early. This will help you meet any specific conditions for the course.

What’s the hardest GCSE to do?

Of course, the hardest GCSE depends on your strengths and interests. But there’s one that’s pretty much universally considered the hardest, with demanding content, heavy workload and intense exams. It’s Further Maths.

In fact, Further Maths GCSE is so difficult, it isn’t offered by most schools. It’s designed for high-achieving students aiming to push beyond the standard GCSE Maths syllabus. So you might have to sit exams as a private candidate.

The course delves into advanced topics like calculus, matrices, and algebraic proof – concepts more commonly found in A Level Maths. The Edexcel Further Maths course is one of the most widely recognised, but OCR and AQA also offer a similar qualification.

Because only the most academic students take Further Maths, there’s a higher pass rate than most GCSE subjects. In 2024, 94.7% of students achieved a grade 4 or higher in Further Maths! That said, the difficulty lies in the abstract nature of the content and the speed at which students must master new concepts. So be warned, you’ll need both motivation and an aptitude for numbers to succeed.

If you’re weighing-up GCSE options with A Level study in mind, we’ve delved into the best and worst subject combinations, as well as the easiest and most challenging A Levels.

Do you or your child need help with GCSEs?

GCSEs can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to tackle them alone. At Achieve Learning, we offer expert tuition in GCSE English and Maths as well as personalised academic coaching and reading support. Whether you’re aiming for top grades or just need a confidence boost, we’re here to help.

Get in touch today and let’s make GCSE success a reality.

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Subject and Object: Sentence Structure Explained

Getting to grips with grammar can sometimes feel like learning a new language. But don’t worry, you’re not alone. Whether you’re a student preparing for exams or a parent brushing up to help with homework, understanding “subjects” and “objects” is a fantastic place to start. 

These two components are the backbone of sentences, shaping how they work and ensuring they make sense.

In this guide, we’ll take a step-by-step approach to breaking down subjects and objects. You’ll learn what they are, how to spot them, and why they matter for your writing – with plenty of examples and simple explanations. By the end, you’ll be ready to tackle everything from 11 Plus preparation to SATs, GCSE and A Level English essays.

What’s subject and object for sentences?

A sentence is usually made up of three key ingredients. A subject, a verb and an object. Think of a sentence like a mini-story: the subject is the main character, the verb is what they’re doing, and the object is what’s being acted upon. Another way to look at it is through the lens of cause and effect. The subject causes something to happen, and the object experiences the result.

Alongside other essential grammar forms, like subordinate clauses, fronted adverbials and connectives, subjects and objects are a key part of good spelling and grammar.

Here are some definitions and examples.

  • Subject – the person or thing doing the action.
  • Verb – the action itself.
  • Object – the person or thing receiving the action.

For example:

  • The dog fetched the ball.
    • Subject: The dog (it’s doing the fetching).
    • Verb: fetched (the action).
    • Object: the ball (what’s being fetched).

Here’s another example:

  • Emma baked a cake.
    • Subject: Emma (she’s causing the action).
    • Verb: baked (the action).
    • Object: a cake (the result of Emma’s baking).

In sentences without an object, the story feels incomplete, like a movie without an ending. Compare these:

  • John threw. (Wait, what did he throw?)
  • John threw the ball. (Ah, now we know!)

So although you can have a sentence with just a subject and a verb (this can be really useful for impact: “Amelia ran.”), the subject-verb-object trio gives a fuller picture.

How do you explain subject and object to kids?

Explaining subjects and objects to kids can be fun with the right analogy. One of the simplest explanations is a game of catch. So, grab a ball and throw it back and forth with your child. 

As you’re throwing the ball, explain:

  1. The person throwing the ball is the subject. They’re doing the action.
  2. The throwing itself is the verb. It’s the action taking place.
  3. The person catching the ball is the indirect object. They’re the one receiving the action.
  4. The ball is the direct object. It’s the thing acted on.

For example:

  • Lucy threw the frisbee to Max.
    • Subject: Lucy (the thrower, doing the action).
    • Verb: threw (the action being done).
    • Direct object: the frisbee (the thing being thrown).
    • Indirect object: Max (the person receiving the frisbee).

If this seems tricky, remember: the direct object answers “what” (What did Lucy throw? The frisbee). The indirect object answers “to whom” or “for whom” (Who received it? Max).

Activities like this help kids connect grammar to real-world actions, making it fun and memorable. If a game of catch isn’t your child’s thing, here are some more analogies to try:

The pizza delivery

Picture someone delivering a pizza:

  • The subject is the pizza delivery person. They’re doing the action (delivering).
  • The direct object is the pizza. It’s what’s being delivered.
  • The indirect object is the hungry customer. They’re receiving the pizza.

For example:

  • The delivery driver handed the pizza to Anna.
    • Subject: The delivery driver (the doer of the action).
    • Direct object: the pizza (what was handed over).
    • Indirect object: Anna (the person receiving it).

The birthday present

Imagine giving someone a birthday gift. It’s a perfect way to explain!

  • The subject is the gift-giver. They’re doing the action.
  • The direct object is the gift. It’s what’s being given.
  • The indirect object is the birthday person. They’re receiving the gift.

For example:

  • Sam gave a book to his brother.
    • Subject: Sam (the one giving the gift).
    • Direct object: the book (the thing being given).
    • Indirect object: his brother (the one receiving it).

Once your child understands the concept, encourage them to spot subjects and objects in their creative writing. The more confident they are with basic sentence structure, the more they can experiment with ambitious vocabulary and exciting descriptions.

What’s an example of a subject and object in KS2?

For KS2 learners, understanding subjects and objects is a key step in improving grammar and writing skills. At this level (Years 3 to 6 of primary school for children aged 7 to 11), it’s best to start simple and gradually increase the complexity. 

Use real-world analogies, like games or everyday actions (the ones we covered above are a great place to start!), to explain these concepts. Then, guide your child to spot subjects and objects in sentences. Progress to more advanced examples as their confidence grows.

Here are three examples:

Simple KS2 example

  • The boy kicked the ball.
  • Subject: The boy (the one doing the action).
  • Object: the ball (what was kicked).

More complex KS2 example

  • The cat chased the mouse and caught it.
  • Subject: The cat (the one performing the action).
  • Objects: the mouse (what was chased) and it (what was caught).

Challenge example for KS2

  • The teacher gave her students a tricky puzzle to solve.
  • Subject: The teacher (the one giving something).
  • Direct Object: a tricky puzzle (what was given).
  • Indirect Object: her students (who received it).

By breaking sentences into their parts, children can see how subjects and objects work together, making their own writing clearer and more engaging. Encourage them to identify subjects and objects in their favourite books to keep practice fun!

If you’re helping your child with KS2 English, don’t miss our guides to homophones, powerful adjectives, ambitious vocabulary, homeschooling advice and much more.

What’s an example of an object?

The object is the receiver of the action in a sentence, often answering the question what or whom. Objects can take many forms. They could be nouns, pronouns, or even phrases. For instance, “a cup”, “she” or “their mountain bikes”. Objects don’t even have to be tangible. They can also be ideas, feelings, or actions, like “freedom”, “love” or “running”.

Here are a few examples:

    1. He read the book.
      • Object: the book (what he read).
    2. The teacher praised the students.
      • Object: the students (whom the teacher praised).
    3. I love chocolate.
      • Object: chocolate (what I love).
    4. She kicked the ball.
      • Object: the ball (what she kicked).
    5. I enjoy swimming.
      • Object: swimming (an action).
    6. They discussed freedom.
      • Object: freedom (an idea).

We should also mention direct and indirect objects. Here’s how to tell them apart.

  • Direct Objects: The thing or person directly affected by the action of the verb.
  • Indirect Objects: Typically a person (or animal) receiving the direct object.

For example:

1. They gave her a present when she left.

    • Direct Object: a present (What was given?)
    • Indirect Object: her (To whom was it given?)

2. Can you get me some butter?

      • Direct Object: some butter (What should be gotten?)
      • Indirect Object: me (For whom should it be gotten?)

3. She sent her friend a letter.

    • Direct Object: a letter (What did she send?)
    • Indirect Object: her friend (To whom did she send it?)

How to identify an object in a sentence: a quick method

Finding the object in a sentence is a bit like detective work. Start with the verb, and then ask the right questions. What and Whom? For example, in the sentence “the cat scratched the sofa”, start with the verb “scratched”. What or whom did the cat scratch? In this case, it’s the sofa. 

And voila. You’ve found your object!

Here’s another example:

  • The boy gave his sister a gift.
    • Verb: gave
    • Objects: his sister (whom he gave it to) and a gift (what he gave).

Wait? Two objects? Yep. Remember some sentences can have two objects, both an indirect and an indirect object.

  • Direct object – the thing directly affected by the action (a gift in the example above).
  • Indirect object – the person or thing indirectly affected (his sister)

Not all sentences have objects, though. So you might not always find one! For instance:

  • The baby cried. (There’s no object here. Just the subject and the action.)

What are five examples of a subject?

While objects are acted on, the subject is the star of the show. It’s who or what the sentence is all about. While subjects are normally people or animals, they can also be things (i.e. nouns, like the sun or cars) or even abstract concepts (like beauty or knowledge).

Here are five examples of a subject in a sentence:

  1. The sun rises every morning.
    • Subject: The sun (it’s doing the rising).
  2. My cat loves fish.
    • Subject: My cat (it’s doing the loving).
  3. Cars zoomed down the street.
    • Subject: Cars (they’re doing the zooming).
  4. Emma paints beautifully.
    • Subject: Emma (she’s doing the painting).
  5. Beauty inspires us all. 
    • Subject: Beauty (it’s what inspires.)

What’s an example of subject and object form?

When it comes to sentence form, subjects often appear at the beginning of the sentence, while objects usually come after the verb. While this isn’t always the case, it’s particularly helpful for understanding sentences with pronouns. 

Subject pronouns include I, he, she, we, they, while object pronouns include me, him, her, us, them.

Here’s how it works. Let’s start with a basic example.

  • Subject form: She threw the ball. (She is the subject, doing the action.)
  • Object form: The ball hit her. (Her is the object, receiving the action.)

Combined example: He called us, and we answered him.

  • He and we are subjects (doing the calling and answering).
  • Us and him are objects (receiving the call and answer).

A more complex sentence: They gave him the book.

  • They is the subject (performing the action of giving).
  • Him is the indirect object (the person receiving the book).
  • The book is the direct object (the thing being given).

So, why does subject and object form matter? Well, getting subject and object forms right ensures grammatical accuracy and clarity. For example, “Me went to the store” or “Her likes chocolate” would immediately sound incorrect because the pronouns are in the wrong form.

If you’re unsure whether to use a subject or object pronoun, try rephrasing the sentence to isolate the pronoun. For instance: Instead of “John and me went to the park,” try saying “Me went to the park.” Since this sounds incorrect, the subject pronoun “I” should be used: “John and I went to the park.”

How do you explain subject and object questions?

Subject and object questions are all about figuring out who’s doing what in a sentence. A subject question focuses on the doer of the action (who), while an object question targets the receiver of the action. Object questions are the most common type, generally focusing on what, where, why or when.

The easiest way to explain this is to break down a sentence step by step. Your job is to uncover the doer of the action (the subject) or the receiver of the action (the object). Here’s how it works:

  1. Spot the verb. This is the action in the sentence.
  2. Ask who or what is performing that action (that’s the subject).
  3. Then ask who or what is affected by the action (that’s the object).

Here’s an example about movies:

  • Subject question: Who directed the film?
    • The verb is directed, and the answer (Christopher Nolan, for instance) is performing the action.
  • Object question: What did Christopher Nolan direct?
    • The verb is still directed, but now the focus is on the object – the film itself (like Inception).

Breaking sentences into these parts makes it easier to identify whether the question asks about the doer of the action (the subject) or the thing being acted upon (the object).

What are ten examples of subject, verb and object?

Whether you’re an English learner, a parent helping with 11 Plus preparation, or a GCSE English student brushing up on grammar, understanding subjects, verbs, and objects is a key part of mastering sentence structure. So we hope you’re feeling more confident.

The more you practice spotting these essential components, the easier they’ll become. To help, we’ve put together 10 example sentences, building in complexity. Try identifying the subject, verb, and object in each sentence. Don’t worry if it takes a bit of practice. Soon, it’ll feel like second nature!

  1. The dog chased the cat. (Subject: The dog, Verb: chased, Object: the cat)
  2. I wrote a story. (Subject: I, Verb: wrote, Object: a story)
  3. She ate the apple. (Subject: She, Verb: ate, Object: the apple)
  4. The teacher explained the lesson. (Subject: The teacher, Verb: explained, Object: the lesson)
  5. We watched a movie. (Subject: We, Verb: watched, Object: a movie)
  6. Tom kicked the ball. (Subject: Tom, Verb: kicked, Object: the ball)
  7. The birds built a nest in the tree. (Subject: The birds, Verb: built, Object: a nest)
  8. The wind blew the leaves across the yard. (Subject: The wind, Verb: blew, Object: the leaves)
  9. My sister baked chocolate chip cookies for her friends. (Subject: My sister, Verb: baked, Object: chocolate chip cookies)
  10. They cleaned the house and organized the garage. (Subject: They, Verb: cleaned and organized, Object: the house and the garage)

Final thoughts: why subjects and objects matter for your writing

Subjects and objects are at the heart of good sentence structure. They’re the foundation for clear communication, from KS2 grammar to advanced GCSE and A Level essays. By breaking down sentences into these parts, you’ll not only improve your writing but also understand how authors craft their work.

If your child is preparing for exams and needs help mastering grammar, Achieve Learning is here. From 11 Plus tuition to SATs, GCSE English and reading support, we’ll help your child succeed. Get in touch today for expert tuition and tailored guidance.

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What is a Connective? Your Grammar Guide

Grammar is like the invisible scaffolding holding up every piece of writing. Without it, there’s a risk everything falls down!

In today’s grammar guide, we’re looking at connectives. Those handy linking words (or phrases) that make our writing flow. They help us structure ideas, create cohesive arguments and add polish to creative writing, speeches and essays.

If your child is preparing for the 11 Plus, tackling tricky SATs questions, or gearing up for GCSE or A Level English, understanding connectives is essential. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know: what they are, how they’re used, and why they’re so vital at every stage of education. 

Whether you’re a parent helping with homework or a student brushing up on your skills, you’ll find clear explanations, practical tips and plenty of examples. Let’s connect the dots.

What is a connective?

Let’s start with a definition. A connective is a word or phrase that links ideas together in a sentence or between sentences. That’s it! Simple, really. It’s what turns a series of thoughts into a cohesive argument or story. Without connectives, writing would feel disjointed and awkward. Like trying to follow a story where all the chapters are out of order.

Here’s an example:

  • Without connectives: “I love cake. It tastes great. It looks fun.”
  • With connectives: “I love cake because it tastes great and looks fun.”

The second sentence flows better, doesn’t it? That’s the power of connectives. They help clarify relationships between ideas, whether you’re adding more information, showing a contrast or explaining why something happened.

Some of the most common examples of connectives include:

  • And
  • But
  • Because
  • So
  • Therefore
  • Although
  • However
  • Meanwhile
  • In conclusion

These tiny words pack a big punch when it comes to improving clarity and making writing more engaging.

What are connectives for kids?

So, now we know what they are, how can we make connectives accessible for younger learners? What is a connective kid definition?

For younger children, connectives can be tricky to grasp, so it’s helpful to break things down with a simple analogy. 

Step 1: Give an analogy

Ask your child to imagine a train. 

Each sentence is a carriage, but without connectives (the hooks between carriages), the train won’t stay together. Connectives are the hooks that join the sentences, making your “story train” run smoothly. 

If you’ve got a train set (or similar toy!) to demonstrate what you’re saying, this will help their understanding.

Or for a nature-loving child, you could use the analogy of a spider’s web.

Explain that each sentence is like a strand of silk in the web. Without connectives, the strands are separate pieces of thread, just floating around. But when the spider (that’s you, the writer!) uses connectives, it’s like weaving the strands together to make a strong, complete web. The web works because all the strands are joined, just like a story or piece of writing makes sense when the sentences are connected. 

If you’re outdoors, pointing out a real spider’s web can help bring this idea to life, showing how everything links together to make something strong and beautiful!

Step 2: Give examples

To further help your child grasp the concept, give simple examples.

Connectives are words like and, because, so, and then. They help your sentences make sense by linking your ideas together. 

Then, ask your child to get involved. Look for connectives in their favourite book. For instance, can you spot the connective in this sentence?

  • “I went to the park because it was sunny.”

Notice how “because” explains why you went to the park? That’s a connective in action! 

Step 3: Encourage everyday participation

Make grammar and connectives an everyday part of chitchat. For instance, if your child loves storytelling, challenge them to use more than just “and or then” when they speak. 

  • Instead of “We went to the zoo and then saw the lions,” they could try:
  • “We went to the zoo because we love animals, and we saw the lions before lunch.”

This combination of analogies, examples and active participation is a fun and easy way to introduce connectives in everyday conversations. It will help your child build confidence and familiarity with connectives, before tackling creative writing in school.

What are the main connectives?

Connectives come in all shapes and sizes, but some are more common than others. These are the main ones you’ll see popping up everywhere:

  • Adding information: and, also, moreover, in addition
  • Contrasting ideas: but, however, although, on the other hand
  • Explaining why: because, since, as
  • Showing cause and effect: so, therefore, thus, consequently
  • Indicating time or sequence: then, next, after that, meanwhile, finally

At first glance, these words might seem a bit mundane, but their role in writing is crucial. Imagine trying to write an essay without because or but. You’d struggle to explain your ideas or show the relationship between them. So don’t underestimate their importance, whether for GCSE or A Level, or even degree-level study.

What are examples of connectives?

Connectives are generally grouped based on what they do. You’ve got additive connectives (i.e. words adding information), adversative connectives (showing opposing ideas), causal connectives (words that explain why or show cause and effect) and temporal connectives (words relating to the passing of time). This may sound tricky, but we promise you – they’re pretty simple.

Here’s a closer look at these main types of connective, with examples.

Additive connectives

  • These add extra information or expand on a point.
  • Examples: and, also, furthermore, in addition.
  • “I love reading, and I also enjoy writing stories.”

Adversative connectives

    • These highlight contrasts or opposing ideas.
    • Examples: but, however, although, on the other hand.
    • “I wanted to go outside, but it started raining.”

Causal connectives

  • These show cause and effect.
  • Examples: because, so, therefore, thus, as a result, consequently.
  • “I stayed home because I wasn’t feeling well.”

Temporal connectives

  • These indicate time or sequence.
  • Examples: then, next, meanwhile, finally, after.
  • “First, we ate dinner. Then, we played games.”

Want to brush up on more English grammar? Don’t miss our guides to subjects and objects, subordinate clauses and fronted adverbials.

What’s a connective in KS2?

At Key Stage 2 (that’s Years 3 to 6 of primary school, for children aged 7 to 11), connectives become a key focus in English lessons. They’re part of what’s known as “SPaG” (or spelling and grammar to you and me). Why? Because this is when students are expected to move beyond simple sentences and start creating more complex, detailed writing. 

A connective for KS2 will still be reasonably simple. Words like and, because, so, however etc. But students will also start to use words like meanwhile, although, consequently by Year 6.

Using connectives helps KS2 students achieve two things:

  1. Better structure: They can link ideas within a paragraph or between paragraphs, improving the flow of their writing.
  2. More variety: They learn to use a range of connectives, from basic ones like and to more advanced ones like although and meanwhile.

For example, in a KS2 story, instead of writing:

  • “We went to the park. We had a picnic. We played football.”

A student might write:

  • “We went to the park and we had a picnic. Afterwards, we played football because the weather was so nice.”

The difference? The second version is richer, more engaging and shows a clear sequence of events.

If you’re helping your child with their KS2 English, we’ve also got detailed guides to homophones, powerful adjectives, 11 Plus scoring, homeschooling advice and much more.

Is “however” a connective?

Absolutely! However is a connective used to introduce a contrast or a different perspective. It’s one of the most versatile and commonly used connectives, particularly in academic writing. For example: “The film was beautifully shot. However, the storyline was hard to follow.”

Adding however gives the sentence balance and makes it more sophisticated. It’s perfect for essays, speeches, or anytime you want to add a counterpoint.

What’s a connective in English Language?

Connectives are the same whatever level of English you’re studying. They’re words that link sentences and ideas. But in GCSE English Language, connectives play two vital roles:

  1. In your writing: They help structure your arguments in essays and creative descriptions. For example, a strong argumentative essay might use connectives like furthermore, however, nevertheless and therefore to guide the reader through your points logically.
  2. In text analysis: When studying texts, spotting connectives can help you understand how an author builds tension, creates contrast or develops ideas. For instance, an author might use although to set up a contrast: “Although the storm raged outside, the child felt safe in her room.”

By analysing how connectives shape meaning, you can uncover deeper insights into a text as well as improve your own writing. They’re essential for reaching top grades.

For example, the AQA English Language mark scheme looks for the following in creative writing:

Content

  • Register is convincing and compelling for audience
  • Assuredly matched to purpose
  • Extensive and ambitious vocabulary with sustained crafting of linguistic devices

Organisation

  • Varied and inventive use of structural features
  • Writing is compelling, incorporating a range of convincing and complex ideas
  • Fluently linked paragraphs with seamlessly integrated discourse markers

Think about it. Can you create convincing and compelling arguments without linking your ideas? Not really. Can you use ambitious vocabulary without connectives? Not if you want to avoid a load of long lists. Varied structural features and fluently linked paragraphs? Yep, you’ve guessed it – it’s connectives.

What are examples of sophisticated connectives?

Here’s a selection of more advanced connective words and phrases, suitable for GCSE, AS and A Level students. For secondary school writing, these words refine arguments, add sophistication and demonstrate a higher level of critical thinking.

To show cause and effect

  • Consequently
  • Therefore
  • As a result
  • Accordingly
  • Hence
  • For this reason
  • Thus

To contrast

  • Conversely
  • Nevertheless
  • However
  • Despite this
  • On the contrary
  • Whereas
  • While this is true
  • Alternatively

To add complexity

  • Furthermore
  • Moreover
  • Not only that, but…
  • In addition to this
  • Over and above this
  • What’s more
  • Otherwise

To qualify or limit

  • To some extent
  • Within limits
  • Insofar as
  • Although
  • Even though
  • While it may be true that

To emphasise

  • Significantly
  • Notably
  • Importantly
  • Above all
  • It should be noted that
  • Indeed
  • Without a doubt

To give examples or evidence

  • For instance
  • Such as
  • Namely
  • As illustrated by
  • This is exemplified by
  • To demonstrate

To compare

  • Similarly
  • Likewise
  • Correspondingly
  • In the same way
  • Analogously

To conclude or summarise

  • In conclusion
  • To summarise
  • In essence
  • To bring it all together
  • All in all
  • To encapsulate
  • Provided that

To show time or sequence

  • Subsequently
  • Thereafter
  • Meanwhile
  • At the same time
  • Concurrently
  • Following this

What are connective statements?

Connective statements are phrases that link larger ideas or sections of text, rather than just single words. These are especially useful in essays and speeches to guide the reader or listener through your argument. Connective phrases are a step up from basic connectives and show a more advanced grasp of structure and clarity in writing.

For example:

  • “On the other hand, this raises another issue…”
  • “As a result of this, we can conclude that…”
  • “In conclusion, it is clear that…”

How to signpost in a speech: a quick guide to connectives

While we’re on the topic of connective statements, they’re especially helpful for GCSE English speech writing. These words and phrases guide your audience, helping them follow your argument or narrative with ease. Your teacher (or examiner) will be looking for these phrases, showing you’ve structured your ideas clearly and logically.

So, what’s the best way to signpost in a speech?

Here are a few direct and engaging connective phrases, to help your audience follow your argument.

Signposting connectives: getting started

  • “To kick things off…”
  • “Let us delve into…”
  • “I’d like to set the stage by…”
  • “Allow me to begin with…”
  • “The first point to consider is…”

Signposting connectives: adding a point

  • “Furthermore…”
  • “It’s also worth noting that…”
  • “Building on this…”
  • “Let’s take this a step further…”
  • “Equally important…”

Signposting connectives: contrasting ideas

  • “On the flip side…”
  • “Conversely…”
  • “Despite this…”
  • “While this may be true…”
  • “It’s important to consider the other perspective…”

Signposting connectives: emphasising your argument

  • “Above all…”
  • “Let me underline the fact that…”
  • “What stands out most is…”
  • “Crucially…”
  • “This cannot be overstated…”

Signposting connectives: giving examples

  • “A case in point is…”
  • “To put this into perspective…”
  • “Take, for example…”
  • “One striking example is…”
  • “To bring this to life…”

Signposting connectives: concluding or summarising

  • “In light of all this…”
  • “To bring it all together…”
  • “In essence…”
  • “To draw to a close…”
  • “In reflection…”
  • “As we conclude, let’s reflect on…”
  • “Ultimately, the key takeaway is…”

These phrases add variety and sophistication to your speech, ensuring it sounds polished and impactful while keeping your audience engaged from start to finish!

Final thoughts: why connectives matter for your writing

Connectives might seem small, but they’re the backbone of clear communication. Whether you’re writing a story, crafting an essay or analysing a text, mastering connectives will make your writing smoother, sharper and more impactful.

Does your child need help with their grammar or writing skills? At Achieve Learning, we offer expert tuition for all levels, from 11 Plus tuition to Year 2 and Year 6 SATs and GCSE English. We also offer reading and library support to motivate and inspire your child’s reading. Get in touch today to give your child’s grammar a boost!

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GCSE Creative Writing Examples: How to Improve Your Writing Skills

Creative writing can be one of the most exciting parts of your GCSE English Language exam. But many students feel unsure where to start or how to structure their ideas. With so much freedom to write creatively, standing out and impressing the examiner can feel tricky.

The good news is, with the right approach, GCSE creative writing can let your personality shine through your words. Whether you’re crafting a short story, a vivid scene, or a personal piece, there are clear steps to turn your ideas into a masterpiece.

In this blog, we’ll cover essential skills for creative writing, from planning your story and creating memorable characters to using ambitious vocabulary and mastering descriptive techniques. We’ll also share practical examples and tips to help you improve, and hopefully enjoy the process!

How to Write a GCSE Creative Writing: Structure and Examples

The first and most important tip for crafting a memorable piece of GCSE creative writing is using a clear and effective structure. Whether you’re writing a short story, descriptive passage or even a speech, sticking to a logical framework will help organise your ideas and guide the reader through your writing. Then, powerful adjectives, linguistic techniques and varied sentence structure are the icing on the cake.

So, what does this look like in practice?

Here’s a sample structure you can use in any GCSE creative writing task.

1. Introduction

This is where you’ll hook the reader and set the tone for your piece. Start with a compelling opening sentence that draws the reader in and hints at what’s to come. It’s your chance to introduce a character, setting, or situation in a way that grabs attention without giving everything away.

Example: “The storm clouds gathered overhead, swallowing the sky in darkness. I stood at the cliff edge, the wind biting at my skin.”

2. Build-Up

In this section, develop your ideas further. If it’s a story, it’s where you introduce conflict or tension that propels the narrative forward. If it’s descriptive, layer in more sensory details and emotional depth to keep the reader engaged.

Example: “With each gust of wind, I felt myself shrinking back, yet something in the distance seemed to beckon me forward. It was an eerie, almost hypnotic pull I couldn’t ignore.”

3. Climax

This is the turning point, where the tension reaches its peak. Whether you’re writing about a thrilling chase or a poignant moment, this is where you bring your ideas together in a way that creates the most impact.

Example: “As I took another step forward, the world seemed to stop. Time stretched, the storm howled louder, and then, in the blink of an eye, the figure in the distance was gone.”

4. Resolution

Wrap up your piece with a satisfying conclusion. Don’t leave your reader hanging unless it’s an open-ended or ambiguous ending. The resolution should feel like the natural ending to events.

Example: “I stood there, heart pounding. The cliff was now silent, save for the soft rustle of the wind. And just like that, it was over. The mystery, the storm, all of it. Gone.”

How long should a 40 mark creative writing be?

The length of your creative writing depends on how much you can write in the time! Most GCSE exam boards allocate 50 minutes for your creative writing task. So time yourself. How much can you write in this time without feeling too rushed? This will be different for everyone. But as a general rule, aim for 500-600 words. For most people’s handwriting, that’s about two sides of A4.

Creative writing usually comes at the end of English Language Paper 1. You’ll have already answered several comprehension questions on an unseen piece of fiction. So you’ll probably be a bit tired by this point. But don’t worry. Everyone’s in the same boat.

Examiners value quality over quantity. So focus on being clear, impactful and creative in the time given. This isn’t the time to over-explain everything or stretch out the story unnecessarily. For top marks, focus on creating a strong narrative arc and vivid descriptions that are concise yet rich in detail.

Here are the main GCSE exam boards and their creative writing requirements.

AQA GCSE English Language: Creative Writing Requirements

  • Paper 1: Explorations in Creative Reading and Writing
  • Section B: Descriptive or narrative writing. Choose from either an image or a written prompt.
  • Marks: 40 marks
  • Time: Roughly 50 minutes

OCR GCSE English Language: Creative Writing Requirements

  • Paper 2: Exploring Effects and Impact
  • Section B: Produce one piece of original creative writing. Choose from two written prompts.
  • Marks: 40 marks
  • Time: Roughly 60 minutes

Edexcel GCSE English Language: Creative Writing Requirements

  • Paper 1: Fiction and Imaginative Writing
  • Section B: A choice of two writing tasks, linked by a theme to the previous reading extract. One of the tasks will provide two images as inspiration.
  • Marks: 40 marks
  • Time: Roughly 50 minutes

Eduqas GCSE English Language: Creative Writing Requirements

  • Paper 1: 20th Century Literature Reading and Creative Prose Writing
  • Section B: Prose Writing. One creative writing task from a choice of four titles.
  • Marks: 40 marks
  • Time: Roughly 50 minutes

Cambridge IGCSE English Language: Creative Writing Requirements

  • Paper 2: Directed Writing and Composition
  • Section B: Composition. Candidates answer one question from two descriptive and two narrative prompts.
  • Marks: 40 marks
  • Time: Roughly 60 minutes

For more on the difference between GCSEs and IGCEs, head to our in-depth article.

What are five examples of descriptive writing?

Descriptive writing paints vivid pictures for the reader, letting them feel what you’re describing. Using sensory details (sight, sound, smell, touch and taste) creates a scene that feels real and engaging. Essentially, don’t just tell your reader what’s happening. Show them through your descriptions!

So, what are some examples? Here are five examples of descriptive writing that bring scenes, characters and atmospheres to life. Why not practise continuing each sentence in a similar style?

1. Setting the scene

“The city streets buzzed with life, the hum of traffic blending with the chatter of pedestrians. The smell of fresh bread wafted from the bakeries and for the first time in a long time, I felt excited.”

2. Character description

“Her hair, dark as a raven’s wing, cascaded down her back in loose waves. It framed a face that seemed too serene for the storm brewing in her eyes.”

3. Mood setting

“The room was stifling, a heavy silence pressing down on everything, as if the walls themselves were holding their breath, waiting for something to break the tension.”

4. Action description

“With a swift motion, he reached into his pocket and pulled out a crumpled piece of paper. His hands trembled as he already knew what it would say.”

5. Sound description

“The crunch of gravel underfoot was the only sound that filled the eerie silence, each step echoing in the vast emptiness of the abandoned hall.”

Does creative writing have a format?

Creative writing doesn’t have a rigid “format” like a formal essay. But there are still expectations about how it should be structured. Depending on the exam prompt, you might be asked to write a narrative, a description or something more experimental. You might also face a picture or a written cue. 

Whatever the prompt, focus on clear, engaging language and organisation. You want your reader to feel like they’re on a journey with you.

Here’s how to approach the two main types of creative writing:

Narrative writing

Narrative writing is all about storytelling. A strong narrative piece should have:

  • A clear structure: Use the classic story arc. An engaging introduction to hook the reader, a build-up that develops tension or curiosity, a climax where the most dramatic or significant moment happens, and a resolution to tie things together.
  • Relatable characters: Even in a short story, characters should feel real. Use dialogue, actions, and inner thoughts to give them depth.
  • Pacing: Keep the action moving, but leave space for reflective moments, vivid description or tension-building pauses to create balance and impact.

Descriptive writing

Descriptive writing is less about plot and more about painting a picture with words. To excel in this style:

  • Set the scene: Focus on creating a vivid image of a place, person, or event. Use sensory details. What can the reader see, hear, smell or feel?
  • Flow and focus: Although descriptive writing can have a looser structure, it should still have a sense of progression. Start broad, zoom in on key details, and end with a striking image or idea.
  • Emotion and atmosphere: Descriptive writing should evoke a mood (whether eerie, joyful, sad… or anything else!) and immerse the reader in your world.

Can you write a poem for GCSE creative writing?

Writing a poem for GCSE creative writing isn’t usually a great idea. Examiners expect a piece of prose fiction (i.e., sentences, paragraphs and dialogue). While there’s nothing stopping you writing a poem for GCSE creative writing, it’s unlikely to secure top marks. 

For instance, the AQA mark scheme states students must “communicate clearly, effectively and imaginatively, selecting and adapting tone, style and register for different forms, purposes and audiences.” An improvised poem probably won’t be the most effective medium for a descriptive or narrative passage!

However, if you’re confident you can blend a poem into your narrative without it feeling forced. Go for it.

Poetry can be a powerful tool as part of creative writing. It allows for condensed emotion, vivid imagery and rhythm, all of which can impress examiners.

How to Get a 9 in GCSE Creative Writing: Tips and Mark Schemes

Securing top marks in GCSE creative writing needs more than just good ideas. It’s about showing mastery of language, structure and style. So you’ll need to understand the mark scheme and assessment objectives, read widely and practice, practice, practice. 

Here’s what you need to focus on.

1. Understanding the mark scheme

No matter which GCSE exam board you’re with, there are a few things in common they like to see. So make sure you’ve read the mark scheme and understand the scoring system! For GCSE creative writing, examiners look for a combination of creativity, technical skill and an understanding of the writing process.

Here’s a bit more detail.

What are examiners looking for in GCSE English creative writing?

  • Engagement: Does the writing capture the reader’s attention from the start? Is the reader invested in what happens next?
  • Character and setting development: How well are the characters and settings developed? Do they feel real and compelling?
  • Content and organisation: Does the piece have a clear beginning, middle, and end? Does the writing flow logically, with well-developed ideas?
  • Technical accuracy: Grammar, punctuation and spelling (or SPaG for short) should be flawless. Small mistakes can detract from your work’s overall quality.
  • Vocabulary and sentence variety: Use a wide range of vocabulary and mix up your sentence structures to keep the reader engaged. Think about elements like fronted adverbials and subordinate clauses.
  • Creativity and Imagination: Don’t be afraid to take risks with your ideas. Show off your originality and use figurative language (metaphors, similes, personification) to add layers to your writing. Examiners love this.

2. Plan before you write

Before launching in, give yourself a few minutes to brainstorm. Think about the characters, setting, or conflict. In no more than a sentence, summarise what you’ll include in each section. 

This will help you stay focused and avoid wasting time. Even a simple outline can be the difference between a rushed, unclear piece and a well-thought-out story.

3. Show, don’t tell

The hallmark of excellent creative writing is the ability to “show” your readers what’s happening, rather than simply telling them. Use descriptive language, body language, and actions to convey emotions or situations, rather than simple adjectives or adverbs.

Instead of just writing, “He felt nervous”, you could say, “His lips quivered as he reached for the door, his fingers brushing the cold handle. His entire body was stiff with hesitation.” You get the idea.

4. Read as much as possible 

Reading widely is one of the best ways to improve your creative writing. Explore different genres (fiction, non-fiction, poetry, drama) and pay attention to how writers craft their stories. Notice how they create tension, develop characters and use imagery to bring a scene to life. This is the stuff you focus on in English Literature.

If there’s a passage you love, don’t just admire it. Analyse it. Ask yourself:

  • What makes it effective?
  • How does the writer use language, structure and tone?
  • Could you use similar techniques in your own writing?

Then, practice by mimicking the style. For example, if you’re captivated by a writer’s description of a storm, create your own description of a natural event. By studying and experimenting with different techniques, you’ll expand your toolkit and develop your unique voice.

Is creative writing difficult?

Creative writing can seem difficult at first, especially if you’re unsure where to start or how to flesh out your ideas. But like any skill, the more you practise, the easier it becomes. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles, genres and techniques. Every writer has their own process, and what works for one person may not work for another. The important thing is to find your voice and write something that feels true to you.

In the context of the GCSE exam, remember you aren’t expected to write a perfect piece. The goal is demonstrating your creativity, clarity of thought and language skills. So focus on making your piece as polished as possible within the time, rather than stressing over perfection.

That said, GCSE English Language is considered a “core” subject. So achieving a pass grade (that’s a 4 or higher) is important for your post-16 choices. Remember, if you’re struggling this time around, GCSE retakes are always an option.

Why do students struggle with creative writing?

So if it’s not that difficult, why do so many GCSE students struggle with creative writing? 

Well, the reasons vary. A lack of confidence, under-preparation, coming-up with ideas and time pressures are all common issues. But the key to overcoming these struggles is identifying what’s holding you back and tackling them with practical solutions. 

Let’s break down common issues and how to resolve them.

1. Lack of confidence

Writing creatively can feel intimidating, especially if you’re worried about getting it “wrong.” This fear often leads to hesitation, making it hard to get started.

Solutions:

  • Start small: Write short descriptive paragraphs or micro-stories to get comfortable with expressing ideas.
  • Practice regularly: The more you write, the more natural it becomes. Try daily prompts to build a habit.
  • Get feedback: Share your work with a teacher, friend or parent for constructive feedback. Focus on their positives as well as areas for improvement.

2. Time pressure

Exam conditions cause stress. As a result, many students struggle to complete their story or description within the time limit.

Solutions:

  • Practice timed exercises: Set a timer and write within exam constraints. Start with shorter time frames and gradually build up.
  • Simplify your structure: If you’re running out of time, focus on a strong beginning and middle. A brief but impactful ending is better than rushing through a resolution.
  • Prioritise clarity: Avoid overly complex plots. Stick to one or two key events or ideas and execute them well.

3. Lack of preparation

Feeling lost or running out of ideas often stems from not being familiar with creative writing techniques or not having a plan.

Solutions:

  • Plan before you write: Spend 5 minutes outlining your story or description. This will give you direction and save time later.
  • Study examples: As part of your revision, read high-scoring creative writing examples to see how others use language and structure their work.
  • Build a toolkit: Practise using literary techniques (e.g., metaphors, personification) and have a few “go-to” ideas or settings that you’re confident with.

4. Running out of ideas

Some students feel stuck when faced with a blank page, unsure where to begin or how to continue.

Solutions:

  • Use the prompt creatively: If the exam includes a picture or written cue, briefly consider different interpretations before settling on one.
  • Write what you know: Draw inspiration from personal experiences, emotions or familiar settings to make your writing more authentic.
  • Keep an idea bank: Maintain a list of interesting characters, settings and plot ideas you can draw from in the exam.

With practice, preparation and patience, creative writing will become less intimidating. And yes, even enjoyable! Remember, the goal isn’t perfection. GCSE creative writing is about showing off your creativity and originality while keeping your writing clear and engaging.

If your child needs help mastering GCSE English, our tailored tuition focuses on their specific exam board and learning needs, ensuring every session is effective and targeted. With experienced tutors and high-quality resources, we’re dedicated to helping students build confidence, improve skills and excel. Get in touch today to find out more.

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How To Get Into Grammar School While Homeschooling

Homeschooling in the UK offers a unique and flexible approach to education. It lets parents tailor their child’s learning experience to their academic interests and emotional needs – setting them up for future success.

Lots of parents choose to homeschool during primary years, but opt for mainstream education when it comes to the more specialised study of secondary school. When it comes to getting your child into grammar school, there are specific challenges and steps to be aware of. 

This blog guides you through the process of preparing your homeschooled child for grammar school entry. We’ll focus on the crucial 11 Plus exam as well as helping your child thrive during the transition from home to secondary schooling.

How do I get my child into a grammar school?

Getting your child into grammar school while homeschooling is a commitment, but it’s totally achievable. First, you need to understand the application process and entry requirements. Grammar schools require students to pass 11 Plus exams, which assess a child’s skills in areas such as English, Maths, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning. You’ll then need to help your child prepare.

As a homeschooling parent, you’ll need to register your child for the 11 Plus exam. This is usually done through your local education authority or directly with the grammar school. 

It’s crucial to check the specific deadlines and requirements for each grammar school, as these vary. You might also want to contact schools to ask about any special arrangements for homeschooled applicants.

What are the challenges of preparing for the 11 Plus when homeschooling?

There’s no doubt, getting ready for the 11 Plus presents a unique set of challenges for parents and students. This is the case whether you’re homeschooling or not!

While homeschooling offers the flexibility to tailor education to a child’s needs, the strict nature of 11 Plus exams requires specific preparation. With this in mind, here are six challenges for homeschoolers and tips for overcoming them.

How to prepare for 11 Plus exams at home: challenges and tips for success

1. Access to resources and materials

One of the main challenges facing homeschooling parents is ensuring access to the right resources, information and materials for effective preparation.

  • Understanding the 11 Plus: 11 Plus exams typically include sections on English (including SPaG and creative writing skills), Maths, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning. Familiarise yourself with the format and content of the exam by reviewing past papers from schools or exam providers.
  • Limited access to past papers: While many resources are available online, finding enough high-quality, up-to-date practice papers can be difficult. Reputable publishers and websites like CGP Books or Bond Online are good places to start.
  • Specialised knowledge: Unlike school students with access to a variety of knowledge and materials through their teachers (often with decades of 11 Plus experience), homeschooling parents will need to manage this process themselves. This will take time and dedication.

2. Structured learning environment

Success in the 11 Plus requires a structured approach to learning, which can be challenging to replicate in a homeschooling environment. Ensure you maintain:

  • Consistency: A consistent study schedule can be difficult when homeschooling, as the flexibility that’s often an advantage can lead to a lack of routine. Establish a regular timetable that mimics the structure of a traditional school day.
  • Focused study time: Ensuring study time is focused and uninterrupted is crucial. Designate a quiet, distraction-free area for study sessions and break down material into manageable sections. This ensures consistent progress and reduces the risk of last-minute panic.
  • Holistic development: It’s important to not get too focused on the 11 Plus. Encourage activities that promote overall well-being during the build-up to exams, with plenty of sports, reading for pleasure, arts and social activities.

3. Understanding the exam format

The 11 Plus exam has a specific format and types of questions that students must be familiar with. Focus on:

  • Understanding question types: Homeschooled students may not be as familiar with the types of questions in the 11 Plus, especially Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning. Regularly incorporate practice questions, exercises and mock exams to build familiarity and confidence.
  • Time management: Learning to manage time effectively is critical. Regular timed practice sessions will develop the ability to complete questions calmly and quickly.
  • Develop exam techniques: Teach your child effective exam techniques, such as reading instructions carefully, writing legibly and keeping cool under pressure. Exam nerves can particularly impact homeschooled children, so maintaining a calm and positive attitude is key. 

4. Access to expert guidance

Homeschooled students won’t have immediate access to 11 Plus experts for guidance and support. Here’s what to consider.

  • Seek professional support: Enlist the help of an experienced academic coach or tutor who specialises in 11 Plus preparation (like us at Achieve Learning!). A tutor can provide personalised guidance, monitor your child’s progress and offer targeted support in areas where your child needs extra help.
  • Mock exams and courses: If possible, enrol in online courses, workshops and mock exams that focus on 11 Plus preparation. Regular practice is key to success in the 11 Plus, and these group settings will build your child’s confidence.

5. Social and emotional preparation

Preparing for the 11 Plus can be a stressful experience, and homeschooled students might miss out on the peer support available in schools. To prevent this:

  • Enable peer interaction: Encourage interaction with peers who are also preparing for the 11 Plus. This could be through study groups, online forums or local homeschooling networks.
  • Stress management: Talk about stress management techniques such as mindfulness, relaxation exercises and regular breaks to manage exam-related anxiety. When planning your teaching, it’s important to avoid a narrow focus on 11 Plus subjects alone.

6. Keeping up with changes

Schools might change the format and content of their 11 Plus exams each year, so staying updated with these changes is crucial.

  • Stay informed: Check the websites of your chosen grammar schools and local education authorities for updates on the exam format and content.
  • Adaptability: Be prepared to adjust your study plan and resources based on the latest information and changes. You should also regularly review your child’s progress and adapt accordingly.

By addressing these challenges head-on and creating a structured, supportive learning environment, you’ll help your child achieve their 11 Plus potential. Remember to stay positive and flexible, and seek professional help when needed to ensure your child is well-prepared and confident. 

With careful planning, access to the right resources and support, grammar school entry is entirely possible for homeschooled students! We wish you the best of luck.

What are common issues for homeschooled children starting grammar school?

Transitioning from homeschooling to a grammar school environment can be a significant change. While homeschooling can excellently prepare students for grammar school, there are common issues. This includes a period of social and emotional adjustment, changes to routine and structure, organisation and new approaches to academic study.

Here are the main issues to keep in mind, to help your child transition with confidence.

Social adjustment

One of the most common challenges for homeschooled children entering grammar school is social adjustment. Homeschooled students may be accustomed to a smaller, more intimate learning environment, often with one-on-one interaction. In contrast, grammar schools are much larger, with a different social dynamic. 

Homeschooled children may need to:

  • Adapt to larger class sizes: With 30 or more students often in a class, it’s harder for homeschooled students to get the individual attention they’re used to.
  • Form new friendships: Making new friends and fitting into established social groups can be challenging, especially if the child is more introverted or has limited experience with group socialisation.
  • Navigate peer pressure: Dealing with peer pressure and the social complexities of a larger school environment can be a new experience for many homeschooled students.

Emotional adjustment

Alongside social aspects, the emotional impact of transitioning to a school environment should not be underestimated. Homeschooled children might face:

  • Separation anxiety: Being away from the familiar home environment and family members for extended periods can cause anxiety.
  • Performance anxiety: The pressure to perform well academically and socially in a new environment can lead to stress.
  • Adjustment to authority figures: Adapting to new authority figures such as teachers and school administrators can be challenging for students used to an informal atmosphere.

Academic transition

The transition to a formal school environment can present challenges for some students. So it’s best to start talking about these changes early. Some issues might include:

  • Adapting to different teaching styles: Homeschooled children are used to their parents’ or tutors’ teaching methods, which may differ significantly from those in grammar schools.
  • Meeting new expectations: Grammar schools have a rigorous academic curriculum and high expectations for homework and exams. Homeschooled students may need time to adjust to these demands.

Routine and structure

The routine and structure of grammar school can be quite different from the flexibility that homeschooling offers. Homeschooled children may struggle with:

  • Fixed schedules: Sticking to a fixed school schedule, including start and end times, class periods and breaks, can be a big adjustment.
  • Organisational skills: Independently keeping track of class and homework assignments, deadlines and materials requires strong organisational skills. This might feel new to homeschooled students used to a more self-paced learning environment.
  • Extracurricular activities: Participating in after-school sports activities and other school events can add to the demands on your child’s time and energy. Getting the balance right is key.

Starting at secondary school presents several challenges – for all children. But understanding the potential issues will help you prepare and adapt effectively. By providing support, encouragement and practical strategies, you’ll help your homeschooled child thrive academically and socially.

Grammar School Quickfire FAQ

If you’re unfamiliar with the UK grammar school system, here are parents’ most frequently asked questions, along with extra resources.

What is a grammar school?

A grammar school is a state secondary school that selects pupils based on academic ability. This is typically through entrance exams known as the 11 Plus. These schools are known for their rigorous academic standards and high levels of student achievement.

For more information, read our in-depth introduction to grammar schools in the UK.

Are grammar schools free to attend?

Yes, grammar schools are state-funded and free to attend. However, some private schools call themselves grammar schools, and these charge fees. It’s important to distinguish between the two when applying.

What are 11 Plus exams?

11 Plus exams are entrance tests used by grammar schools to select students based on their academic abilities. Students usually sit these exams in their final year of primary school, around the age of 10 or 11. They generally cover English, Maths, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning skills. 

Here’s our guide to 11 Plus exams to help your child prepare.

Why choose a grammar school?

Grammar schools offer several advantages, including high academic standards, a challenging curriculum, smaller class sizes and excellent opportunities for further education. These schools boast strong exam results, a wide range of extracurricular activities, and a stimulating environment that helps motivated students thrive.

Do grammar schools have catchment areas?

Most grammar schools have catchment areas, which are specific geographic zones determining eligibility. Living within a catchment area can increase your child’s chances of admission. But this isn’t always the case. 

Some grammar schools don’t have catchment areas and admit students purely based on 11 Plus performance. If you’re considering relocating, here’s a complete list of grammar schools in the UK without a catchment area.

Are grammar schools hard to get into?

Securing a spot at grammar school can be highly competitive due to the limited number of places and the level of academic ability required. While grammar schools offer many benefits, they may not suit every child. 

The rigorous academic environment can be challenging, and some children may thrive better in a different educational setting. To explore your options further, read our guide to the best private schools in the UK.

Are you considering grammar school for your child?

Homeschooling your child and preparing them for entry to grammar school is a challenging but rewarding process. At Achieve Learning, we specialise in personalised 11 Plus tuition. Whether you’re looking for academic consultancy, mock exams or an extra push with reading skills, get in touch with our expert team today. We’d be delighted to help.

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Homeschooling in Britain: A Parent’s Guide for 2025

Homeschooling in Britain is continuing to grow in popularity. And for good reason! With more pressures on schools and children than ever before, parents are increasingly seeking an alternative education that provides opportunities for flexibility, a personalised curriculum and a safe learning environment. 

If you’re thinking about homeschooling in the UK, you’ll find everything you need to know in this comprehensive guide. We explain what homeschooling involves, dive into the advantages and disadvantages, as well as the latest rules and regulations when removing your child from traditional schooling.

Homeschooling in Britain: An Introduction

What is homeschooling?

Homeschooling in Britain, also known as home education or “elective” home education, is an educational practice where children are taught at home, rather than a traditional state or private school. Parents or guardians take on the role of educators, planning and delivering lessons tailored to their child’s individual needs and learning pace. 

When homeschooling, teaching might be solely provided by the parent or guardian, or supplemented by subject-specific tutors and academic coaching

Homeschooling can encompass a massive variety of teaching styles, from structured, curriculum-based approaches to more flexible, child-led learning.

How does homeschooling work?

If your child is currently in mainstream education and you want to start homeschooling – your first step is telling the school. They must legally accept your request if you’re removing your child full-time.

Schools can refuse if you want your child to attend part-time, though. This is known as flexi-schooling.

We’ll cover legal requirements in more detail, but as a rough overview, homeschooling in Britain involves:

  • Initial decision-making: Parents decide to homeschool their child based on personal, educational or situational reasons.
  • Deregistration: If the child is already enrolled in a school (even if they haven’t attended), parents must inform the school in writing of their intention to deregister their child.
  • Curriculum planning: Parents design a curriculum that meets their child’s educational needs. This can be structured around the national curriculum or customised to focus on specific interests, needs and skills.
  • Daily teaching: Parents provide daily instruction and educational activities. This can include traditional lessons, hands-on experiments, field trips and other learning experiences. The amount of time your child spends on formal learning is up to you.
  • Assessment: Exams are optional when homeschooling in the UK, but regular assessments, both formal and informal, help track your child’s progress and ensure they’re meeting goals.
  • Support and resources: Many homeschooling families join local or online homeschooling groups for support, resources and social interaction with other homeschoolers.

Why choose homeschooling in the UK?

Homeschooling offers a unique educational experience tailored to the needs and preferences of your child. Many parents are drawn to homeschooling because it allows for a more individualised approach to learning, greater flexibility in scheduling, and the opportunity to create a nurturing learning environment at home. 

Here are some key advantages.

Pros of homeschooling in Britain

  • Customised learning: Tailor the curriculum to fit your child’s learning style, interests and pace. One-to-one teaching, whether from parents or tutors, is often more effective than large group settings.
  • Flexibility: Create a flexible lesson schedule that suits your family’s lifestyle and allows for more hands-on and experiential learning. No school runs. No prescribed holidays.
  • Safe learning environment: Provide a safe and supportive environment free from bullying, peer pressure and other social issues – especially for children with additional needs that may go unnoticed in  large classes.
  • Stronger family bonds: Spend more quality time with your children, fostering closer family relationships.
  • Enhanced focus: Spend more time on subjects that are challenging or of particular interest to the child. Particularly helpful for academically, artistically or athletically gifted children.
  • Life skills: Opportunity to teach practical life skills and values that may not be covered in a traditional school curriculum.

Although you need to formally notify and deregister your child from school, you don’t need to provide your reasons for homeschooling. They must accept your request, no matter the personal reasons.

What is the biggest disadvantage of homeschooling?

While homeschooling in Britain can be a highly rewarding experience, it’s important to understand the potential challenges and drawbacks. Homeschooling requires a significant time and financial commitment, and it can present unique educational hurdles. 

Before deciding to homeschool in the UK, it’s essential to weigh these potential disadvantages to ensure you can address and manage them effectively.

Cons of homeschooling in Britain

  • Time: There’s no way around it. Homeschooling requires a significant time commitment from parents, who must plan and deliver all lessons.
  • Financial burden: Homeschooling involves additional costs for educational materials, extracurricular activities, academic tutors and loss of income if a parent must stay home.
  • Lack of socialisation: If not managed appropriately, limited interaction with peers can affect social development and lead to feelings of isolation.
  • Limited resources: Access to specialised resources, facilities and extracurricular activities may be restricted compared to traditional schools.
  • Educational gaps: Parents may lack the expertise to teach certain subjects (especially as children get older), potentially leading to gaps in the child’s education.

Can I take my child out of school and homeschool?

Yes, you can absolutely take your child out of school and homeschool.

In the UK, parents have the legal right to educate their children at home. This is outlined in Section 7 of the Education Act 1996. The act states children must have “full-time education” suitable for their “age, ability and aptitude” as well as any special educational needs. This doesn’t necessarily involve school.

If you’re considering homeschooling, here are the key regulations to consider.

Notification

If your child is already enrolled in school, you must inform the school in writing of your decision to homeschool. They’ll remove your child’s name from the register.

If your child is at school because of a school attendance order, you’ll need your local council to formally agree before removing your child.

Local authority involvement

Local authorities may make informal inquiries to ensure a suitable education is provided. They can request information about your educational approach and may visit your home, though you are not legally obliged to allow home visits.

You must provide an education that’s suitable to your child’s age, ability, aptitude, and any special educational needs. Education must be full-time, but there is no strict definition of what constitutes “full-time” education in a homeschool setting.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

If your child has an Education, Health and Care (EHC) Plan, you must ensure their special educational needs are met. The local authority may review the EHC plan to ensure appropriate provision.

If your child attends a SEN school, your local council will need to formally agree to a homeschooling request. You don’t need the council’s permission if your child goes to a mainstream school, even if they’ve got an EHC plan.

Record Keeping

While not legally required, keeping detailed records of your child’s educational progress, activities, exams and assessments is beneficial, especially if questioned by the local authority.

Homeschooling in Britain: Costs and Monitoring

How is homeschooling monitored?

In the UK, local councils are responsible for ensuring homeschooled children receive a suitable education. 

While there is no formal inspection process, local authorities might make informal enquiries to check the education provided meets required standards. 

This could involve:

  • Initial contact: After deregistering your child from school, the local authority may contact you to discuss your homeschooling plans.
  • Educational evidence: You might be asked to provide information about your educational approach, curriculum and resources. Some parents choose to submit a written report or portfolio of their child’s work.
  • Home visits: Although not mandatory, some local authorities request home visits to discuss your child’s progress and review their learning environment. You can choose to meet them elsewhere if you prefer.

If your council feels you aren’t providing a suitable education for your child, they can serve a school attendance order. This means your child must attend formal education, or you’re liable for prosecution.

Does Ofsted inspect homeschooling in the UK?

Ofsted (the Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills), does not inspect homeschooling directly. Instead, Ofsted works with local authorities to ensure they’re fulfilling their duties regarding home-educated children. 

Local authorities must have procedures in place to monitor and support homeschooling families. But the inspection of individual homeschooled children falls outside Ofsted’s remit.

What will it cost to homeschool my child?

Homeschooling comes with a variety of costs, which vary depending on your approach and resources. At the least, you’ll have to supply textbooks, revision books, pens, paper, computer software and subscriptions to online resources. 

As well as these “basics”, you should factor in:

  • Extracurricular activities: Fees for sports, music lessons, art classes and any other activities.
  • Field trips and educational outings: Costs associated with museum visits, historic houses, science centres and educational experiences such as trips abroad.
  • Exam fees: Registration fees for exam boards. For AQA (for example), fees start around £50 for GCSEs and rise to £200 for some A Level subjects. You’ll also have to register as a private candidate at a school, college or exam centre to sit exams. Here, prices range from £50 to £300 per subject.
  • Private tutoring: Hiring academic tutors for subjects where parents lack expertise, or academic coaches to improve your child’s study skills and confidence. One-to-one tuition generally starts from £40 per hour.

These costs can easily add up when homeschooling, and it’s essential to budget accordingly. While some families manage with minimal expenses, others invest significantly in their child’s education.

How much money do you get for homeschooling in the UK?

In the UK, the government doesn’t provide direct financial support for homeschooling families. Unlike some countries where homeschooling grants or subsidies are available, British parents are responsible for all costs associated with home education.

That said, some local authorities may offer access to resources or support services, such as online learning platforms, access to local leisure centres or borrowing resources from libraries. They might also run groups and get-togethers for homeschooling families. 

These offerings (financial or otherwise) are at the discretion of your local council, so it’s best to check with them directly.

What are the requirements for homeschooling in the UK?

To homeschool in the UK, parents don’t need formal teaching qualifications. But you must provide a “full-time education” suitable to your child’s age, ability, and any special educational needs.

Here are the basic requirements:

  • Deregistration: If your child is enrolled in school, you must notify the school in writing of your intention to homeschool.
  • Education plan: You should have a plan or approach for how you’ll educate your child. This doesn’t need to be a formal document and you don’t have to follow the national curriculum, but having a clear idea will help satisfy local authority inquiries.
  • Regular monitoring: You should monitor your child’s progress and adjust your approach to ensure they’re learning effectively. Your council might make an “informal enquiry” to check you’re providing a suitable education. So these documents will help satisfy any checks.
  • Special Educational Needs (SEN): If your child has an EHC plan, you must ensure their special educational needs are met. The local authority may review the EHC plan to ensure appropriate provision.

Homeschooling in Britain: Subjects and Qualifications

What subjects are compulsory for homeschooling?

There aren’t any compulsory subjects for homeschooled children. 

Nonetheless, to ensure you’re providing a suitable education, it’s advisable to teach at least the core subjects of Maths, English Language and Science. While the UK government doesn’t mandate a specific curriculum for homeschooling, parents are expected to provide a broad and balanced education suitable for their child’s age and aptitude.  

So for younger children in Key Stage 1 (ages 5-7), this might include fundamental subjects such as English, Maths and basic science. As children progress to Key Stage 2 (ages 7-11), their studies become more detailed, with a stronger emphasis on reading, writing, more advanced maths skills, and subjects like history, geography, and foreign languages.

In Key Stage 3 (ages 11-14), students deepen their knowledge and explore more complex concepts. By Key Stages 4 and 5, the curriculum becomes more specialised. At GCSE, students focus on core skills in English, Maths and Science, as well as four or five additional subjects. By the time students reach AS and A Levels, this narrows to three or four subjects in total.

What exams do homeschoolers do?

Homeschoolers in Britain have the option to take standardised exams. They aren’t compulsory though, so this is up to you.

Homeschooled children don’t take SATs (Standard Assessment Tests) at the end of Key Stages 1 and 2, as these exams assess school rather than pupil performance. Cognitive Abilities Tests (CATs) and 11 Plus exams (used for entry into selective schools and grammar schools) are optional. They can be taken if parents choose.

For older students, GCSEs are the most common qualifications taken by homeschoolers at the end of Key Stage 4. These exams are important for further education and employment opportunities, as many jobs and post-16 qualifications ask for minimum grades. 

Post-16, A Levels are popular if your child plans to attend university. BTECs or apprenticeships are also great options for students who’d benefit from a more vocational route.

Do homeschooled children have to take GCSEs?

Homeschooled children don’t have to take GCSE exams. Even so, it’s advisable.

While GCSEs aren’t compulsory for homeschooling, they are the most widely recognised qualification at the end of Key Stage 4. They serve as a standard benchmark for academic achievement, used by educational establishments and employers alike.

With this in mind, most homeschoolers opt to take GCSEs (or IGCSEs) in at least the core subjects of Maths, English and Science. Many also take GCSEs in areas of interest, like History, Geography or Modern Languages.

Where do homeschoolers take GCSEs?

Homeschooled students in Britain can sit their GCSEs at independent test centres or local schools and colleges that take private candidates. 

Independent test centres accept private candidates, providing a supportive environment tailored to homeschooled students. Some local schools and colleges also allow homeschooled students to take exams alongside their enrolled peers. Availability, prices and policies vary though, so it’s important to register well in advance.

Homeschooling in Britain: Future Prospects

Is homeschooling common in the UK?

Homeschooling is increasingly common in the UK. According to the latest government data, 126,000 children were homeschooled during the 2022-23 academic year. This was up from 116,000 children in 2021-22.

This growing trend shows more and more parents are seeing the benefits of taking direct responsibility for their children’s education – opting for homeschooling as an effective alternative to traditional schooling environments.

In terms of the specifics, the numbers increase as children get older. While only 3% of home-educated children are in Year 1, around a third are in Year 10 or 11.

The government also estimates 49% of homeschooled children are male and 51% are female. 14% of homeschooled children had SEN support while 5% had EHC plans – which roughly matches the national average.

Do UK universities accept homeschooling?

Yes, UK universities accept homeschooled students. When considering applications, universities focus on students’ qualifications and achievements rather than their educational background. 

As we’ve seen, homeschoolers often take GCSEs and A Levels, which are the main criteria for university admissions. If you’ve taken alternative exams, check with your university what qualifications they accept.

Does Oxford accept homeschoolers?

Yes, the University of Oxford accepts homeschooled students. Like other top universities, Oxford evaluates candidates based on their qualifications and merits. 

For entry to Oxford, homeschooled students must meet the same academic standards as those from traditional schools. This includes strong performance in GCSEs, A Levels or equivalent qualifications. 

If you’re considering an Oxbridge application and aiming for the very top grades, don’t miss our guide to acing your A Level exams and how hard it really is to get AAA.

Are homeschooled students more successful in the UK?

Determining whether homeschool UK students are more successful is complex. The Department of Education doesn’t collect data on exam results and career progression for home-educated children. So we can’t compare directly.

However, studies from America suggest that homeschooled students outperform their peers both academically and socially. This research indicates that homeschooled children develop as well or better socially, emotionally, and psychologically than those attending conventional schools. They often exhibit strong self-motivation, independence and critical thinking skills, contributing to their success in higher education and beyond.

The increasing number of UK homeschool students and their acceptance into leading Russell Group universities reflects growing recognition of homeschooling’s effectiveness. Many homeschooled students thrive in formal academic settings and pursue successful careers, suggesting that homeschooling (done right!) provides a solid foundation for future success.

Do you need help with your child’s education? At Achieve Learning, we provide dedicated one-to-one tuition for 11 Plus Exams, GCSE Maths and English, as well as academic coaching and reading support. Get in touch with our expert team for a free, no-obligation chat about your child’s needs.

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Dr Challoner’s High School: Your 11 Plus (11+) Entry Guide 2025

Are you considering Dr Challoner’s High School for your daughter? If so, here’s all the information you need about the school, its admissions process and deadlines, 11 Plus exam papers and how to prepare.

Dr Challoner’s High School, situated in Little Chalfont, Buckinghamshire, is a highly esteemed grammar school for girls. It admits around 180 pupils each year and is renowned for its academic excellence and holistic education. 

Due to understandably high demand, competition for places is intense. To help you and your child prepare, here’s your comprehensive guide to the application process, test format and tips for success.

A Brief Introduction to Dr Challoner’s High School

Founded in 1962, Dr Challoner’s High School is home to just under 1,300 girls between 11 and 18 years old. In the Headmaster’s welcome to the school, he states their mission is “to provide the best possible education for girls”.

Regularly ranking among the top thirty state schools and the best in Buckinghamshire for academic progress, there’s no surprise Dr Challoner’s is so popular among parents and students alike. It’s judged as “outstanding” by Ofsted. The school is also only the ninth institution in the entire country to receive the “Exceptional Schools Award”.

This excellence translates into remarkable exam results. In 2023, 54% of A Levels grades were A* or A. Almost all students go to university, including Russell Group institutions and Oxbridge.

At the heart of the school is a tightly-knit community that prioritises compassion and commitment as well as a “strong instinct for the fun, creative and clever”. They promote learning for its own sake and gently encourage girls to achieve their full academic potential.

What’s the application process for Dr Challoner’s High School?

Dr Challoner’s High School is a selective grammar school. In short, this means your daughter must take (and excel in) their 11 Plus exams to be considered for a place. We’ll go into more detail below, but the 11 Plus for Dr Challoner’s High School is known as the Buckinghamshire Secondary Transfer Test. 

If your child goes to primary school in the county, they’re automatically entered for the Buckinghamshire Secondary Transfer Test. If not, you’ll need to register with Buckinghamshire Council.

Here are the key dates to know:

  • 11 Plus registration opens: 3 May 2024
  • 11 Plus registration deadline: 14 June 2024
  • Dr Challoner’s Open Morning: 4 July 2024
  • 11 Plus test date: 12 September 2024
  • Dr Challoner’s Open Morning: 24 September 2024
  • 11 Plus results published: 11 October 2024
  • Dr Challoner’s Open Morning: 17 October 2024
  • Secondary application deadline: 31 October 2024
  • Secondary allocations: 3 March 2025

After they’ve sat exams, you’ll receive your child’s 11 Plus results near the start of October. If your daughter’s score meets the threshold for Dr Challoner’s, you can decide whether to apply for a place. You’ll need to list it as a “preferred school” on the secondary school “common application form” (or CAF). Final choices must be submitted by the end of October.

It’s important to know that passing the 11 Plus doesn’t necessarily mean your daughter will gain a place at Dr Challoner’s. When allocating places, the school also considers other admissions factors such as whether you live in their catchment area, receive pupil premium, whether any siblings already attend and more.

For 11 Plus application deadlines and exam dates across the country, read our complete list of key dates.

What’s the format of the Dr Challoner’s High School test?

The Dr Challoner’s High School 11 Plus exam is known as the Buckinghamshire Secondary Transfer Test. GL Assessment creates and manages these exams. They consist of two-hour-long papers.

This includes:

  • English and Verbal Reasoning: Featuring comprehension questions, technical English (like spelling, punctuation and grammar) and verbal reasoning.
  • Maths and Non-Verbal Reasoning: With questions on Key Stage 2 Maths topics, as well as spatial and non-verbal problem solving using pictures and diagrams.

Students sit both papers in one sitting, with a break in between.

The exact question types and exam structure vary each year, so it’s best to familiarise your child with a range of sample papers. There’s also a shorter practice test taken two days before the real thing, which will help improve your child’s confidence.

Your daughter’s scores in both papers are age-standardised and then ranked. The combined scores determine each candidate’s overall result.

What’s the pass mark for Dr Challoner’s High School entrance paper?

Your daughter will need a score of 121 or higher to be eligible for a place at Dr Challoner’s High School. Unlike some other grammar schools, scores aren’t ranked beyond this level. So if more than 180 children achieve 121 or more (which is highly likely), the school’s other admissions criteria come into play.

For anyone who’s scored 121 or above, factors influencing admissions include:

  • Priority is given to “looked after”, internationally adopted, and previously looked after girls.
  • Those in receipt of pupil premium.
  • Whether you live in the catchment area.
  • Daughters of staff members.
  • Sisters of girls currently attending Dr Challoner’s.
  • Girls with exceptional medical and social needs that can only be met at Dr Challoner’s.

Does Dr Challoner’s High School have a catchment area?

Yes, Dr Challoner’s High School has a catchment area. This means you must live within this zone to be eligible for a place. It includes the areas surrounding Amersham, Chalfont St Giles, Chalfont Common, Chesham, Gerrards Cross, Prestwood and Great Missenden. 

If there’s a tie-break between girls meeting other admissions criteria, those living closest to the school receive priority. There’s a catchment map and more details on the school’s admissions pages.

Who creates the test for Dr Challoner’s High School?

GL Assessment develops the test materials and papers for Dr Challoner’s High School.

GL Assessment is a leading provider of educational assessments. They focus on a range of skills, including numerical ability, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Their tests are designed to be fair and unbiased, ensuring equal opportunity for all students.

Where can I find Dr Challoner’s High School sample test papers?

Although Dr Challoner’s High School does not release past papers, GL Assessment provides free familiarisation papers.

You can also find similar papers (great for helping your child with a wide variety of skills and question types) online and at most bookstores from Bond 11+ and CGP.

To help your child ace the 11 Plus, one of the best things you can do is use a variety of past papers. Start by regularly going through these papers together. This way, your child will feel familiar with the exam format and more relaxed when the big day comes. 

Consistency is key. As you work through the papers, you’ll be able to spot any tricky areas (like specific topics or time management) they struggle with. This lets you build your daughter’s confidence and boost their performance.

Does Dr Challoner’s High School charge fees?

No, Dr Challoner’s High School is state-funded and does not charge tuition fees.

It’s one of 163 state-funded grammar schools across England that select students based on academic entrance tests.

To find top grammar schools near you, explore our lists of the best grammars in Slough, Kent, Hertfordshire, Barnet, London and the whole UK. If you’re considering options further afield, don’t miss our complete guide to grammar schools without a catchment area.

Is Dr Challoner’s High School part of a consortium?

No, Dr Challoner’s High School is not part of a formal consortium. The entrance test and admissions process are managed independently by the school. 

However, it is a member of The Buckinghamshire Grammar Schools (TBGS), an organisation formed by the thirteen grammar schools in Buckinghamshire to manage the Buckinghamshire Secondary Transfer Test.

While each grammar school operates as an independent academy with its own admissions process, they work together through TBGS to maintain a coordinated selection system. 

This system uses a shared 11 Plus test (instead of 13 separate exams!), preventing a time-consuming and stressful admissions process for parents and pupils alike.

How can I help my child prepare for the Dr Challoner’s High School 11+ exam?

Here are some tips to incorporate into your daily routine, to help your child prepare for the Dr Challoner’s High School 11 Plus exams. 

  • Consistent learning: Make studying a regular part of your child’s routine with short, daily sessions of 20-30 minutes. This “little and often” approach helps their brain absorb information better. Turn study time into a fun activity with colourful flashcards, educational games or apps that make learning interactive and enjoyable.
  • Reading: Encourage your child to read a wide range of books. Mix it up with different genres and authors to expose them to various writing styles and vocabularies. You can create a reading challenge with rewards for finishing books or set aside family reading time to make it a shared experience. Discuss the stories together to enhance their comprehension and analytical skills.
  • Practice tests: Once your child feels comfortable with the material, start incorporating practice tests. This helps them get used to the exam format and timing. Help your child concentrate by setting up a mock exam environment at home, complete with a timer and a quiet space. You could also consider mock tests from independent providers (like us at Achieve Learning!).
  • Celebrate progress: Set small, achievable goals and celebrate each milestone. This could be as simple as a small treat or a fun outing. Encourage a growth mindset by praising their effort and improvement, not just their achievements. Remind them that making mistakes is part of learning and that persistence will pay off.
  • Maths and English skills: For Maths, practice problem-solving with real-life examples, like calculating change during shopping or measuring ingredients for a recipe. Use workbooks and online resources for timed tests and exercises to improve speed and accuracy. For English, promote regular reading and descriptive writing activities. Encourage your child to keep a journal, write stories, or summarise their favourite books to strengthen their SPaG and comprehension skills.
  • Professional tutoring: If your child needs extra help, consider professional tutoring. A tutor will provide personalised attention, feedback and tips. They’ll tailor lessons to your child’s needs, ensuring they’re well-prepared for 11 Plus exams.

If you’re thinking about 11 Plus exams for your child, get in touch with our expert team at Achieve Learning today. With personalised 11 Plus tuition and support, mock tests and academic consultancy – we’ll give your family the tools to succeed.

Dr Challoner’s High School: Your 11 Plus (11+) Entry Guide 2025 Read More »

GCSE Grades and Percentages: The GCSE Grading System Explained

The General Certificate of Secondary Education (or GCSE) is a UK-based academic qualification, usually taken by students at 16 years old. 

With subjects ranging from the sciences to language, sports and the arts, GCSEs are a crucial part of students’ educational journey. But with so many options, understanding GCSE grades and percentages can be tricky.

Among your options, English and Maths GCSEs are particularly pivotal, often listed as essential requirements for post-16 education and employment. So in this article, we’ll focus on the grading of GCSE English and Maths, with everything you need to know about how grades and percentages correlate.

Here are GCSE grades, explained.

What is the GCSE grading system?

The GCSE grading system is standardised across the country, so it’s fair no matter which exam board you’re studying with. It underwent a significant overhaul in 2017, transitioning from traditional A*-G grades to a numerical system ranging from 9 to 1. Now, 9 is the highest grade (equivalent to a high A* under the old system), while 1 is the lowest. 

This new GCSE grading system aims to provide more differentiation among the highest-achieving students. 

Instead of just A* or A at the top level, the new 7 at GCSE roughly equates with a low A. Grade 8 is equivalent to a high A or low A*, and grade 9 represents the highest academic achievement.

How do GCSE grades and percentages work?

A combination of coursework, practical assessments and final exams determine GCSE grades. But final exams (taken at the end of a two-year course) generally carry the most weight. 

GCSE exam boards (such as AQA, Edexcel, OCR and WJEC Eduqas) set grade boundaries each year, based on exam difficulty and student performance. So this means the percentage for a particular grade varies from year to year, and subject to subject. 

Generally though, you’ll find rough percentages align with grades. Before we go into specific details for GCSE English and Maths, here are the 2023 grade boundaries (across all subjects) for each exam board.

What is the pass mark for GCSE Maths?

For GCSE Maths (and all GCSE subjects), a grade 4 is considered a standard pass. This equates to a low C under the previous grading system. 

Across England, only 67.8% of GCSE grades were at grade 4 or above.

The percentage you’ll need to achieve a grade 4 varies, but it typically falls around 40-60% for GCSE Foundation Maths. For Higher Tier students, you’ll only need around 10-25% to secure a grade 4 “pass”.

Here are the 2023 pass marks for each exam board.

GCSE Higher Maths: Grade 4 Boundaries

  • AQA: 59 out of 240 marks (25%)
  • Edexcel: 47 out of 240 marks (20%)
  • OCR: 39 out of 300 marks (13%)
  • WJEC Eduqas: 32 out of 240 marks (13%)

GCSE Foundation Maths: Grade 4 Boundaries

  • AQA: 158 out of 240 marks (66%)
  • Edexcel: 147 out of 240 marks (61%)
  • OCR: 129 out of 300 marks (43%)
  • WJEC Eduqas: 105 out of 240 marks (44%)

If you’re preparing for GCSE Maths, read our complete guide to the GCSE Maths syllabus, as well as Maths GCSE exam boards and the lowdown on revision websites like Corbett Maths and Maths Genie.

What is the pass mark for GCSE English?

Similarly to GCSE Maths, a standard pass for GCSE English is a grade 4. Likewise, the percentage you’ll need changes each year, but it ranges from about 30-50%. 

Here are the 2023 pass marks for GCSE English Language and English Literature.

GCSE English Language: Grade 4 Boundaries

  • AQA: 71 out of 160 marks (44%)
  • Edexcel: 80 out of 160 marks (50%)
  • OCR: 69 out of 160 marks (43%)
  • WJEC Eduqas: 75 out of 200 marks (38%)

GCSE English Literature: Grade 4 Boundaries

  • AQA: 57 out of 160 marks (36%)
  • Edexcel: 67 out of 160 marks (42%)
  • OCR: 49 out of 160 marks (31%)
  • WJEC Eduqas: 85 out of 200 marks (43%)

Achieving a grade 4 in Maths and English is pretty important, as it’s a common requirement for further education and professional jobs. Understand how your GCSE grades affect your post-16 choices (and what options are available), with our in-depth guide.

If you’re preparing for your GCSE English exams, don’t miss our tips for exam success in English Language and how to get a grade 9 in English Literature.

What GCSE grade is 40%?

As you can see, it differs.

A score of 40% might just be enough to secure a pass in WJEC Eduqas English Language. It might also get you there with AQA or OCR English Literature. 

But for English in general, a score of 40% typically falls into the grade 3 category, which is below the standard pass mark for GCSE. 

In Higher Maths however, a score of 40% equals a grade 5 or above. With OCR and Eduqas, it gets you a grade 6!

If you’ve just fallen short of a grade 4 in GCSE English or Maths, the good news is you’ve got plenty of options. You can have your papers reviewed (known as an appeal) or resit your exams. As part of this, academic coaching is useful to help you unpick any problem areas. 

If resits aren’t an option, apprenticeships or vocational qualifications like BTECs generally have more flexible entry requirements.

What is 70% in GCSE grades?

A score of 70% will usually get you a grade 7 or 8 at GCSE, depending on the subject and your exam board’s grade boundaries for that year. 

Here are the percentages you’ll need to reach a grade 8 in English and Maths. Most are just above or below the 70% mark.

GCSE English Language: Grade 8 Boundaries

  • AQA: 111 out of 160 marks (69%)
  • Edexcel: 122 out of 160 marks (76%)
  • OCR: 118 out of 160 marks (74%)
  • WJEC Eduqas: 132 out of 200 marks (66%)

GCSE English Literature: Grade 8 Boundaries

  • AQA: 119 out of 160 marks (74%)
  • Edexcel: 121 out of 160 marks (76%)
  • OCR: 118 out of 160 marks (74%)
  • WJEC Eduqas: 141 out of 200 marks (71%)

GCSE Higher Maths: Grade 8 Boundaries

  • AQA: 186 out of 240 marks (78%)
  • Edexcel: 174 out of 240 marks (73%)
  • OCR: 193 out of 300 marks (64%)
  • WJEC Eduqas: 152 out of 240 marks (63%)

We should also mention that for GCSE Foundation Maths, grade 5 is the highest possible score, even if you achieve 70% or more. Here are the percentages you’ll need to reach grade 5.

GCSE Foundation Maths: Grade 5 Boundaries

  • AQA: 189 out of 240 marks (79%)
  • Edexcel: 182 out of 240 marks (76%)
  • OCR: 178 out of 300 marks (60%)
  • WJEC Eduqas: 133 out of 240 marks (55%)

Is 7 a good GCSE grade?

Yes, a grade 7 is a very good GCSE grade! 

A grade 7 is well above average, equivalent to a high A under the old grading system. It indicates strong exam performance, plenty of dedication and a firm grasp of your subject matter. 

Across England, only 20.7% of GCSE grades were at grade 7 or above. So if you’re in this minority, well done.

In Maths, only 17.5% of grades were 7 or above. For English Language, it’s 16.3% and English Literature is 21%. So a grade 7 is even more impressive for English and Maths!

What GCSE grade is 80%?

An 80% score on your GCSE exams will generally get you at least a grade 8. In some cases, you might even get a grade 9.

It represents a very high level of achievement, indicating you’ve excelled in your understanding and application of your subjects.

In Maths, 80% would get you a grade 9 with Edexcel and Eduqas. It’s probably a grade 8 with AQA and just on the cusp with OCR.

For English Language, 80% is a grade 9 for AQA and Eduqas, but a grade 8 for Edexcel and OCR. In English Literature, it will secure you a grade 9 with Eduqas, but a grade 8 with all the other exam boards.

Here are the scores you’ll need for a grade 9 in English and Maths.

GCSE English Language: Grade 9 Boundaries

  • AQA: 121 out of 160 marks (75%)
  • Edexcel: 131 out of 160 marks (81%)
  • OCR: 129 out of 160 marks (81%)
  • WJEC Eduqas: 145 out of 200 marks (73%)

GCSE English Literature: Grade 9 Boundaries

  • AQA: 135 out of 160 marks (84%)
  • Edexcel: 132 out of 160 marks (83%)
  • OCR: 134 out of 160 marks (84%)
  • WJEC Eduqas: 153 out of 200 marks (77%)

GCSE Higher Maths: Grade 9 Boundaries

  • AQA: 214 out of 240 marks (89%)
  • Edexcel: 203 out of 300 marks (68%)
  • OCR: 242 out of 300 marks (80%)
  • WJEC Eduqas: 187 out of 240 marks (78%)

Is a 9 in GCSE 90%?

Last but not least, we’ve reached the highest grade possible at GCSE: grade 9.

Like all the other grades we’ve discussed, a grade 9 doesn’t correspond to a fixed percentage like 90%. Instead, it represents the very highest level of academic attainment at GCSE. 

While the exact percentage required for a grade 9 varies each year, a score of 90% should reliably get you there!

Are you looking for help with your GCSE studies?

Understanding the GCSE grading system and exam percentages is crucial for students wanting to improve their academic progress. 

As GCSE English and Maths are core subjects, achieving good grades in these exams is particularly important. So if you need help with your GCSEs, get in touch today. Our expert team of tutors will deepen your understanding, develop effective study strategies, build confidence and help you achieve your academic goals.

GCSE Grades and Percentages: The GCSE Grading System Explained Read More »

Your GCSE Grades and Choices at 16: Everything You Need To Know

The transition from GCSEs to post-16 education is a pivotal moment for students in the UK. It’s a time that shapes your sixth form or college experience, university options and career choices.

Understanding how GCSE grades impact post-16 choices will help you navigate this phase with confidence. This guide provides an in-depth look at how GCSEs are graded and assessed, what choices are available at 16, and how your results influence your opportunities. We’ll also explain your options, in case you didn’t achieve the GCSE grades you hoped for.

So whether you’re staying on for A-levels, entering vocational training or exploring apprenticeships, we’ve got all the expert advice and insights you need to make the best choices for your future.

How are GCSEs graded and assessed?

GCSEs (or General Certificate of Secondary Education) are graded using a numerical system from 9 to 1. A grade 9 is the highest level students can achieve and 1 is the lowest. The assessment methods for GCSEs vary by subject, but typically include a combination of exams, practical assessments and coursework.

At GCSE, subjects like English, Science and Maths are assessed primarily through exams (although some GCSE exam boards use coursework for Maths). On the other hand, practical subjects like Art and Design, Music or Geography usually include a significant coursework component.

The three main styles of GCSE assessment are:

  • Exams: Most subjects are assessed through subject-specific written exams at the end of the course. For example, English Literature involves analysing texts, memorising quotations and writing essays. GCSE Maths exams include calculator and non-calculator papers requiring strong problem-solving skills and mathematical knowledge.
  • Coursework: In subjects like Art, Design Technology, Science and Geography, coursework can account for a significant portion of the final grade. This can include special projects, written assignments, practical classroom experiments and ongoing teacher assessments.
  • Practical assessments: Subjects like Drama, Music and Physical Education often include practical assessments where students must demonstrate skills in performance or physical activity.

Wondering how does GCSE grading work? Take a look at our in-depth blog on the grading of GCSEs for 2024. We’ve also written an introduction to IGCSEs for anyone taking these qualifications.

What options do you have at 16?

At 16, students in the UK have several pathways to choose from when it comes to continuing education. The three main alternatives are Sixth Form, a Further Education College or work-based apprenticeships.

Here’s more information on each pathway.

  • Sixth Form: This usually involves AS or A Level study within your current school or a specialist Sixth Form. These two-year qualifications are the most common route to university. So for example, if you’re interested in Medicine, you might take A Levels in Biology, Chemistry and Maths. Alternatively, A Levels in History, English Literature and Politics could prepare you for a degree in Law or Humanities.
  • Further Education College: Colleges offer a variety of courses, including A Levels, vocational qualifications like BTECs, or apprenticeships. Vocational courses might include practical subjects like Engineering, Hairdressing, Hospitality or Health and Social Care that provide the skills you need for your chosen career.
  • Apprenticeships: Combining practical work experience with study, apprenticeships let you earn while you learn. They can lead to qualifications equivalent to GCSEs, A Levels or even degrees. For instance, a plumbing apprenticeship involves working with experienced plumbers and studying for a qualification that could lead to full-time employment.

Deciding on the right path depends on your academic interests, GCSE grades, career goals and learning preferences. There’s a lot to consider! So it’s worthwhile chatting with a careers advisor, trusted teacher, academic coach or family member. The more input you can get, the better.

Can you finish school at 16?

In the UK, you can’t legally leave education entirely at 16. 

You have the option to move away from traditional school settings, but students must continue in some form of education or training until they are 18. This could be through full-time education (such as sixth form or college), an apprenticeship, or part-time education combined with employment or self-employment.

How do GCSE grades affect your choices at 16?

While it’s tempting to think GCSE grades don’t matter (especially if you have to stay in some form of education for the next two years), this isn’t the case. GCSE grades play a major role in determining your post-16 options. 

So what GCSE grades are good?

Well, “good” will be different for everyone, but most sixth forms and colleges require specific grades. For example, you usually need a minimum of grade 4 in Maths and English Language to enrol in most A Level courses. Higher grades may be required for some independent schools and colleges, especially where there’s lots of competition for places.

Sixth Form requirements

Entry requirements for A Level study can be high, particularly for subjects like Maths and Science. So check with your school or college if you’re unsure. 

While a grade 4 in English and Maths is the general minimum, you might need higher grades for specific subjects. For instance, you’ll probably need at least a grade 6 in GCSE Maths to study A Level Maths or Further Maths.

Vocational courses

Vocational courses have different entry requirements based on the level and subject. For example, a Level 3 BTEC in Business might require five GCSEs at grades 4-9. A Level 1 Diploma in Carpentry and Joinery might only need three GCSEs at grade 2 or above, including Maths and English. 

You’ll find this information on college course pages. But if you’re unsure, get in touch with the admissions department. 

Apprenticeships

Employers and training providers look at your GCSE results to assess your suitability for the role. There are no set rules here, but you’ll want to aim for higher grades in subjects relevant to your field of study.

For instance, a higher-level apprenticeship in IT or Dental Nursing might require at least four grade 4 GCSEs, including Maths and English. An apprenticeship in Horticulture might only ask for Maths and English at grade 3 or above.

What is the meaning of post-16 qualifications?

Post-16 qualifications refer to the study you’ll undertake after you’ve turned 16. 

This includes the variety of academic and vocational qualifications you can take after completing your GCSEs, such as A Levels, BTECs or work-based apprenticeships. These qualifications are designed to cater to diverse interests and career goals, providing pathways to higher education and skilled trades.

It’s worth mentioning that if you don’t achieve a passing grade in GCSE English or Maths, you may have to continue studying these subjects post-16. This ensures all students have essential literacy and numeracy skills, critical for further education and employment. The emphasis on these core subjects reflects their importance in almost all aspects of life and work, giving competency and confidence for academic and personal success.

Do GCSE grades matter for university?

Yes, GCSE grades matter for university admissions, though they’re not the sole factor considered. Universities look at a range of criteria, including GCSE and A Level results (or equivalent qualifications), personal statements and academic references. 

Strong GCSE grades will strengthen your university application, especially in core subjects like Maths and English. Leading universities (whether Russell Group or Non-Russell Group) look for a strong academic record throughout secondary education. This shows consistency and dedication through your studies.

Lots of universities also have specific GCSE requirements. For example, most ask for at least four or five GCSEs at grade 4 or above. For certain subjects, such as Medicine, universities often require at least a grade 6 in GCSE Maths and Science subjects.

What happens if you fail your GCSE exams?

Failing your GCSE exams isn’t the end of the road, as there are several options available. So if you’re in this situation, don’t worry.

One of the most common routes is to retake your GCSEs, often in the autumn or the following summer, especially for essential subjects like Maths and English. 

Alternatively, you can consider enrolling in courses that don’t require GCSEs (or accept grades below a 4), such as certain vocational qualifications or entry-level apprenticeships. 

Further education colleges also offer foundation courses designed to help students improve their grades and gain entry to Level 3 qualifications like A-levels or BTECs. Functional Skills courses, which focus on practical abilities in Maths and English are also sometimes accepted as substitutes for GCSEs.

Are GCSEs worth resitting?

In our opinion, absolutely.

If you didn’t achieve the grades you wanted, resitting GCSEs can be incredibly worthwhile. This is especially the case for core subjects such as Maths and English, where a pass is often required for post-16 qualifications and many job roles. 

As well as the academics, improving your grades can massively increase your confidence – showing that with hard work and determination, you’re more than capable of achieving your goals.

That said, consider the time and effort required to resit exams, as well as the costs involved. Assess whether the benefits of potential higher grades outweigh the resources you’ll need to invest. For some students, focusing on new qualifications might be a more effective use of time.

When can I resit my GCSEs?

GCSE resits are typically available in November for English and Maths, with other subjects usually offered in the summer. Check with your school or local college for resit schedules and enrollment deadlines.

To prepare for resits, create a study plan that addresses the areas where you struggled – as well as reinforcing your strengths. Seek support from teachers, tutors, study groups and online resources (the more variety the better!) to help your understanding and performance.

If you’re getting started with revision, here’s how to make a revision timetable (that really works) as well as time blocking techniques to supercharge your studies.

Do you need help improving your GCSE grades?

GCSE grades are a crucial factor in your post-16 education and career options. Whether you’re aiming for A Levels, vocational qualifications or an apprenticeship, strong GCSE results will help you get there. 

At Achieve Learning, we empower students to reach their full academic potential. Get in touch with our expert tutors and academic coaches today to understand how we can help you.

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