Firoz Jetha | Founder of Achieve Learning & 11+ Expert

What are Prefixes? Definitions and Examples

Have you ever wondered why we say “unhappy” instead of “not happy” or why “regrowth” means “grow again”? Those little add-ons at the beginning of words—called prefixes—are like secret codes that change meaning in an instant. They help us modify words, create new ones, and make language more precise.

Once you get the hang of prefixes, you’ll spot them everywhere. They make vocabulary easier to understand, spelling a little less tricky, and even help guessing the meaning of new words. Whether you’re a student aiming for top marks in English, a parent helping with homework, or just someone who loves words, this guide will break everything down in a simple, easy-to-understand way.

From what prefixes are to how to teach them (with plenty of useful examples), let’s dive into the world of prefixes.

What is a prefix?

A prefix is a group of letters added to the start of a word to change its meaning. Think of it like a makeover—a small addition that transforms a word into something new. Unlike suffixes (which go at the end of words, like “-ing” in “running”), prefixes always go at the beginning. They can make words negative, like “un-” in “unsure,” or show something happening again, like “re-” in “refill.”

Take “informed” for example. Consider the difference in meaning between “misinformed” and “uninformed.” If someone is misinformed, they have the wrong information. But if they are uninformed, they have no information at all.

Or take the word “do.” Add “re-,” and you get “redo,” meaning to do something again. Now, add “un-,” and you get “undo,” which means to reverse an action. Just one little change at the start of the word and—voila!—you’ve completely altered its meaning.

That’s the magic of prefixes. They can change words in so many ways, whether by flipping the meaning, changing the tense or creating a whole new concept. As such, strong knowledge of prefixes is essential for 11 Plus exams (for both grammar schools and private schools), as well as SATs, GCSEs and even A Levels.

What are prefixes for beginners?

If you’ve never really paid attention to prefixes before, don’t worry—learning them is easier than you think. Start with the basics and focus on the most common prefixes. Many will sound familiar, even if you haven’t thought about them as prefixes before.

What are the six most common prefixes?

Here are six of the most common prefixes. Mastering these will make understanding words with similar patterns a lot easier.

Un- (not): unkind, unsafe, unsure
Re- (again): rewrite, repaint, refill, regrowth
Pre- (before): preview, prepare, preschool
Dis- (opposite): dislike, disapprove, disappear
Mis- (wrongly): misplace, misunderstand, misuse
Over- (too much): overeat, overwork, overestimate

A cool trick is taking a word you already know and playing around with adding different prefixes. This helps you see how the word shifts in meaning. Take the word “trust” as an example:

Untrustworthy: not worthy of trust
Mistrust: to have doubts about something
Distrust: to strongly doubt or not believe in something

By simply changing the prefix, we create three very different words with unique meanings. That’s the power of prefixes!

How do you explain a prefix to a child?

Explaining prefixes to children depends on what stage they’re at with language. A 5-year-old will need a different approach than a teen prepping for GCSEs. But don’t worry, whether they’re just starting out or already familiar with some grammar concepts, you can make prefixes fun and engaging. We promise.

Here are some ideas for each Key Stage.

Prefixes for Key Stage 1

For children in Key Stage 1 (ages 5-7), keep things super simple. You could say that a prefix is a “word starter”—a special set of letters added to the beginning of a word to change what it means.

As a fun activity, grab some flashcards with common prefixes and root words, and let kids match them to form new words. If you’re homeschooling and want to make things more exciting, what about doing it against the clock? Or larger bits of paper they can jump between? For example, they could pair “un-” and “kind” to make “unkind,” or “re-” and “turn” to make “return.”

Prefixes for Key Stage 2

Now they’re getting the hang of language, at KS2 (ages 7-11) kids understand more about how prefixes change the meaning of words. For example, “pre-” means “before,” and “over-” means “too much.” Knowing this can help them predict meanings of new words they come across.

At this stage in the national curriculum, it’s a good time to learn spelling rules and explore how prefixes work. Understanding how “dis-” can turn a verb into its opposite (like “agree” → “disagree”) or how “sub-” can indicate position (like “submarine” meaning “underwater”) is a key part of verbal reasoning.

As an example exercise, give your child sentences with missing prefixes and let them figure out which prefix fits. For example:

“I had to _____do my homework because I made a mistake.” (Redo)
“We went to the shop to buy _____cooked meals.” (Pre-cooked)

To work on multiple skills at once, provide sentences with powerful adjectives and character descriptions to enhance your child’s creative writing alongside their spelling and grammar. This will help with 11+ scores, SATs and the transition to secondary school.

Prefixes for Key Stages 3 & 4

As students progress into secondary education (and onto GCSE English Literature and Language), they’ll be ready for more complex prefixes. You could even explain that many prefixes come from Latin or Greek. For instance, the prefix “bio-” comes from Greek and means “life,” as seen in “biology” (the study of life). Similarly, “anti-” comes from Greek and means “against,” as in “antibiotic” (a substance that fights bacteria).

As a challenge activity, ask students to find unfamiliar words in a book or article and break them down by prefix and root word. You could even challenge them to include specific prefixes in their creative writing or speech writing. For instance:

‘Telecommunication’ → ‘tele-’ (distance) + ‘communication’
‘Autobiography’ → ‘auto-’ (self) + ‘biography’
‘Superimpose’ → ‘super-’ (above) + ‘impose’
‘Misinterpret’ → ‘mis-’ (wrongly) + ‘interpret’

Looking for help with more spelling and grammar topics? Don’t miss our guides to fronted adverbials, homophones, subordinate clauses, connectives and sentence structure.

What are ten examples of prefixes?

We’ve already covered some of the more common prefixes you’ll encounter. But here are ten more prefixes that can help expand your vocabulary. These are often used in more advanced language (so they’re perfect for GCSE and A Level English students).

With a firm understanding of prefixes and their meanings, you can decode even more words. It’s a bit like knowing cheat codes for understanding vocabulary!

Anti- (against): antibiotic, antisocial
Co- (together): cooperate, coauthor
De- (reverse): defrost, decode
Ex- (out): export, exhale, exegesis
Im- (not): impossible, immature
Inter- (between): international, interact, intercept
Mid- (middle): midday, midweek
Non- (not): nonstick, nonsense, nondenominational
Semi- (half): semicircle, semifinal
Sub- (under): submarine, submerge

What are the rules for prefixes?

Prefixes might be small, but they make a big difference to a word’s meaning. The good news is that they follow some handy rules, so once you get the hang of them, they’re easy to use. Most of the time, you just add a prefix to the front of a word. But sometimes, there are spelling tweaks or hyphens involved.

Here’s what you need to know:

Most prefixes don’t change the root word’s spelling: In most cases, you just pop the prefix onto the word, and you’re good to go. For example, “kind” becomes “unkind”, and “do” becomes “redo”. No extra changes needed!
Some prefixes play by different rules: If the prefix ends in a vowel and the root word starts with one, things might shift slightly. That’s why “in-” turns into “il-” in “illegal” (not “inlegal”!) or “im-” in “impossible.” It’s all about making the word easier to say.
Hyphens can sometimes save the day: Ever noticed the difference between “re-sign” (sign again) and “resign” (quit)? That little hyphen changes everything! Hyphens also help when adding a prefix to a proper noun (“un-American”) or when a word might look confusing without one.
Some prefixes have multiple meanings: The prefix “over-” can mean too much (“overcook”) or above (“overhead”), so don’t assume it always means the same thing. Context is key.

Once you know these rules, using prefixes becomes second nature. They’re like little building blocks that let you tweak words and expand your vocabulary.

How do you find prefixes?

Spotting prefixes is like solving a little word puzzle. They’re everywhere once you know what to look for! Since prefixes always appear at the start of words, you can usually figure them out by breaking the word down and thinking about its meaning. Once you start noticing prefixes, you’ll see them everywhere—and they’re a great shortcut to understanding new words without reaching for a dictionary.

Here are some tips for spotting prefixes:

Find the root word: If a word looks long or unfamiliar, see if you can spot a smaller word inside it. In “disagree,” you can see “agree”, which means “dis-” is the prefix.
Think about the meaning: Does the word suggest the opposite (“unhappy”), something happening again (“replay”), or a negative effect (“misunderstand”)? If so, chances are, there’s a prefix at play.
Get to know the usual suspects: Some prefixes pop up all the time, like “un-” (not), “re-” (again), “dis-” (opposite), and “pre-” (before). The more you recognise them, the easier it gets!
Break tricky words into parts: If you come across a word like “autobiography,” split it up: “auto-” (self) + “biography” (life story). Even if you’ve never seen the word before, suddenly it makes sense.

Does your child need support with English?

Mastering prefixes not only helps break down complex words but also strengthens vocabulary and overall language skills. Next time your child encounters a tricky word, encourage them to look at its parts—you might be surprised at how much they already understand!

If your child could use extra support, our expert tutors at Achieve Learning are here to help. Whether it’s 11 Plus preparation, SATs, GCSE English or reading support, we provide personalised tuition to boost their confidence and skills. Get in touch today and help them reach their full potential.

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What Are Cube Numbers? Definitions and Examples

When it comes to maths, some numbers have special properties that make them stand out. You might have heard of square numbers, but what about cube numbers? If you’ve ever wondered what cube numbers are, why they matter, and how to explain them to children, you’re in the right place.

Cube numbers are fascinating because they grow quickly and have unique properties that make them useful in real-life situations. They also open doors to bigger mathematical ideas.

So whether you’re a parent or teacher looking for teaching ideas and examples, a student tackling the concept, or just someone after a simple explanation, here’s everything you need. We’ll explain cube numbers in a way that’s simple, engaging and full of practical examples.

What is a cube number in maths?

Let’s start with a simple definition.

A cube number is the result of multiplying a whole number by itself three times. So in mathematical terms, it’s a number “raised to the power of three”. For example, 8 is a cube number. Why? Well, 2 multiplied by 2 is 4. Then, times 4 by 2 again. And there’s your answer. 2 x 2 x 2 = 8. Although they may sound complicated, that’s all there is to cube numbers!

Here are a few more examples:

1 × 1 × 1 = 1 → So, 1 is a cube number.
2 × 2 × 2 = 8 → So, as we’ve seen, 8 is a cube number.
3 × 3 × 3 = 27 → So, 27 is a cube number.
4 × 4 × 4 = 64 → And 64 is a cube number too.

If you’ve ever worked with square numbers (where you multiply a number by itself), cube numbers follow a similar pattern. Except this time, you’re multiplying three times instead of two. The difference is cube numbers grow much faster than square numbers. For example, squaring 4 gives you 16, but cubing it gives you 64—a much bigger jump!

Cube numbers also help us understand the concept of dimensions. A square number represents an area (length × width), whereas a cube number represents a volume (length × width × height). This brings us nicely to the question—why are cube numbers important?

Why are cube numbers important?

Cube numbers aren’t just a fun maths trick. They have real-world uses in maths, science, and even technology. At school, cube numbers are mostly used to calculate volume, but learning them helps build a strong foundation for future maths and problem-solving skills.

Here’s why they matter:

Volume calculations: Cube numbers help us work out the space inside a cube. Imagine a cube 3 blocks wide, 3 blocks deep, and 3 blocks tall. To find out how much space it takes up, you multiply 3 × 3 × 3 = 27 cubic units. Cube numbers make volume calculations quick and simple!
Building blocks for advanced maths: Knowing cube numbers makes it easier to understand cube roots, indices (powers) and exponential growth. These topics are important for GCSEs and A Levels, appearing in algebra, problem-solving and even economics.
Science and engineering: Many real-world formulas involve cube numbers, especially in physics, chemistry and engineering. They help scientists calculate things like gravity, energy and force, which are essential for designing everything from buildings to roller coasters.
Computing and technology: Cube numbers are used in computer programming and data organisation. They help speed up algorithms, which makes technology like search engines and game development more efficient.
Spotting patterns: Cube numbers appear in many maths puzzles and number sequences. They help us recognise trends and relationships between numbers, which is useful in problem-solving and logical thinking (helpful if you’re preparing for non-verbal reasoning sections of the 11 Plus).

What are cube numbers for kids?

Cube numbers might sound fancy, but they’re just what happens when you multiply a number by itself three times—like 2 × 2 × 2 = 8. Children usually meet cube numbers in Key Stage 2 (ages 9–11), where they start spotting patterns. But the real magic kicks in during Key Stage 3 and beyond, when cube numbers pop up in volume, algebra, and even real-world problems.

So, how do you make cube numbers exciting and easy to understand? Start with what they already know and use plenty of visual, hands-on examples to bring the idea to life.

Here are a few ideas.

Cube numbers for Key Stage 2

At this stage (ages 9-11), it’s all about making cube numbers feel real—the more hands-on, the better!

Stack up some fun: Grab some building blocks, sugar cubes, or dice. Ask them to stack 2 × 2 × 2 cubes and count them. It’s a great way to show that 2³ = 8 in a way they can actually see.
Spot the pattern: Write out cube numbers (1³, 2³, 3³…) and compare them to square numbers. Kids will love noticing how quickly cube numbers shoot up compared to squares!
Make it a real-world puzzle: “If a chocolate box is shaped like a cube and holds smaller chocolates inside, how many chocolates fit inside a 3 × 3 × 3 box?” This makes cube numbers feel useful (and a little delicious).

Cube numbers for Key Stage 3

By now (ages 11-14), students get the basics, so it’s time to connect cube numbers to real-world maths.

Make it about volume: Ask, “If a cube-shaped box has sides of 5 cm, how much stuff can it hold?” Cube numbers naturally appear in volume calculations, so this helps the idea click.
Real-World Cubes: Find cube-shaped objects around the house or classroom—things like dice, Rubik’s cubes, or storage boxes. Talk about how their volume can be calculated using cube numbers, making the maths more practical and relevant.
Let them experiment: Ask them to cube their age, their house number, or a random number and compare results. They’ll love seeing just how big the numbers can get.
Cube number bingo: Create bingo cards with different cube numbers on them. Call out the cube roots (e.g., “the cube of 4”), and players match them to the correct answer. This is a fun way to memorise cube numbers and their roots.

Cube numbers for Key Stage 4

At this stage (ages 14-16 and GCSE study), cube numbers aren’t just about spotting patterns—they start appearing in algebra, problem-solving and even science.

Challenge them with cube roots: Once they’re confident with cubing numbers, flip it around: “What’s the cube root of 64?” (It’s 4!) Cube roots help prepare them for trickier algebra problems.
Set up a problem-solving challenge: Give them a real-world question: “If a shipping box is 4 × 4 × 4 metres, how many 1m³ boxes fit inside?” Let them figure it out like a detective.
Quickfire cube number challenge: Give a number and ask whether it’s a cube number or not. Fastest wins! You can also ask students to estimate cube roots—for example, “What is the cube root of 512?” (Again, fastest or closest wins). This makes cube numbers more interactive and develops problem-solving skills.
Spot the cube number: Write down a list of numbers, including both cube and non-cube numbers. Challenge students to identify which ones are cube numbers and explain their reasoning. This helps with pattern recognition and logical thinking.

If you’re looking for more GCSE Maths revision resources, don’t miss our guides to MathsWatch, Seneca Learning, Physics and Maths Tutor, Maths Genie and Corbett Maths.

What are examples of cube numbers?

One of the best ways to understand cube numbers is to see them in action. Maths can sometimes feel abstract, but when you work through real examples, it suddenly becomes much clearer. By looking at actual cube numbers, you can see patterns, recognise how they grow, and develop an instinct for spotting them.

Examples also help with problem-solving—if you know the first few cube numbers by heart, you can quickly figure out if a number is a cube, estimate cube roots, or apply them in real-world situations like measuring volume. This is particularly useful if you’re revising for exams like the 11 Plus, SATs, GCSEs and Maths A Levels (as well as more practical subjects like Core Maths), where cube numbers appear in number patterns, sequences and algebra questions.

Let’s go through some key examples.

What is the cube number of two?

When introducing cube numbers, it’s helpful to start with a simple example. The number 2 is a great choice because it’s small and easy to work with, yet clearly demonstrates the concept of cubing.

If we cube the number 2, it means we multiply it by itself three times:

2 × 2 = 4 (This gives us the square of 2)
4 × 2 = 8 (Now we multiply by 2 again to get the cube)

So, 2 cubed (2³) = 8. That means 8 is a cube number because it’s the result of multiplying 2 by itself three times.

A great way to visualise this is by imagining a stack of small cubes. If you had a cube that was 2 blocks wide, 2 blocks tall, and 2 blocks deep, it would contain 8 smaller cubes in total—helping show why they’re called “cube” numbers!

What are the first 10 cube numbers?

If you’re working with cube numbers, it’s useful to know the first few off by heart. These come up often in GCSE and A Level Maths problems, so being familiar with them can save time and effort.

Here are the first 10 cube numbers, starting from 1:

1³ = 1 × 1 × 1 = 1
2³ = 2 × 2 × 2 = 8
3³ = 3 × 3 × 3 = 27
4³ = 4 × 4 × 4 = 64
5³ = 5 × 5 × 5 = 125
6³ = 6 × 6 × 6 = 216
7³ = 7 × 7 × 7 = 343
8³ = 8 × 8 × 8 = 512
9³ = 9 × 9 × 9 = 729
10³ = 10 × 10 × 10 = 1,000

One thing you might notice is how quickly these numbers grow! Unlike square numbers, which increase steadily, cube numbers get much larger because we’re multiplying three times instead of just twice.

Is 27 a cube number?

Yes! 27 is a cube number because it’s the result of cubing 3:

3 × 3 = 9
9 × 3 = 27

So, 3³ = 27, which confirms that 27 is a cube number.

A great way to test if a number is a cube number is to think backwards. Can you find a whole number that multiplies by itself three times to make that number? If so, then it’s a cube number.

What are the cube numbers 1 to 100?

Between 1 and 100, only a few numbers are cube numbers. That’s because cube numbers grow rapidly, so most numbers in this range don’t fit the pattern.

Here are the cube numbers between 1 and 100:

1³ = 1
2³ = 8
3³ = 27
4³ = 64

These are the only cube numbers within this range. After 64, the next cube number is 125, which is already greater than 100.

A good way to help children identify cube numbers is to make a quick list of cubes and check if a given number is on the list. If it’s not, it’s not a cube number!

What are the rules for cube numbers?

Cube numbers follow handy patterns that make them easier to understand and work with. So, instead of trying to memorise a long, long list of cube numbers, recognising these patterns will help your child spot them more quickly—especially when they appear in schoolwork or exams.

Here are a few key rules to know:

Even numbers stay even, and odd numbers stay odd: This is a handy shortcut for checking your work! If you cube an even number (like 4), the result will always be even. If you cube an odd number (like 5), the result will always be odd. Try it for yourself!
Some numbers can never be cube numbers: If a number ends in 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7, it can’t be a cube number (except for 4³ = 64). Recognising this pattern is a great way to rule out numbers that aren’t cubes.
Negative numbers can also be cube numbers: Unlike square numbers (which always give positive results), cubing a negative number still gives a negative result. For example: (-2)³ = -8, (-3)³ = -27.

These three rules make cube numbers much easier to work with. Once you get used to them, you can spot cube numbers quickly and use them in all kinds of maths problems.

Need a helping hand with Maths or English?

If your child could use extra support with SATs, 11 Plus, Maths or English GCSE prep, Achieve Learning is here to help. Our expert tutors provide personalised, friendly tuition that builds confidence and skills. Get in touch today to give them the support they need to thrive.

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What are Square Numbers? Definitions and Examples

Square numbers pop up all over maths—whether it’s times tables, algebra or shapes. But what exactly are they? And how can you explain them in a way that makes sense, especially to a child?

If maths isn’t your thing, don’t worry, we’re keeping things simple. This guide will walk you through what square numbers are, why they’re useful, and some easy ways to spot them. We’ll also share tips for teaching them, a full list of square numbers up to 100, and clear up common mix-ups (like whether 2 or 20 count as square numbers).

By the end, you’ll have everything you need to explain square numbers with confidence. No complicated jargon, just straightforward, practical maths. Let’s get started!

What’s a square number in maths?

Let’s start with a definition.

A square number is a number you get when you multiply a whole number by itself. So take any number—like 1, 2, 3, or 10—and multiply it by the exact same number. The result is always a square number. For example, if you take 4 and times it by 4, you get 16. Which is a square number. The same applies if you take 7 and multiply it by 7. This gives you 49, another square number.

The key idea is that square numbers always come from whole numbers multiplied by themselves. You can’t get a square number from a fraction or a decimal multiplied by itself.

For example:

1 x 1 = 1 → a square number
2 x 2 = 4 → a square number
3 x 3 = 9→ a square number

But…

1.5 x 1.5 = 2.25 → not a square number
3.3 x 3.3 = 10.89 → not a square number

So, why are square numbers so important? Well, square numbers aren’t just a random maths fact. They’re super useful, and they pop up in all sorts of places. Whether it’s working out areas in geometry, solving algebra problems, or understanding how computers encrypt information, square numbers are a key part of maths. Learning about them early makes it much easier to tackle more advanced topics later on.

Bigger building blocks: Square numbers set the stage for trickier topics like square roots, cube numbers, indices, algebra and even Pythagoras’ theorem. If your child gets the hang of them now, GCSE and A Level maths will feel lots easier.
Spotting patterns: Knowing square numbers helps with recognising number patterns and makes times tables and division much more straightforward. It’s like having a secret shortcut to understanding how numbers work. This is particularly helpful for maths and non-verbal reasoning sections of the 11 Plus.
Essential for Geometry: Ever wondered how we calculate the area of a square? Yep, square numbers! They pop up in all sorts of shape-related maths problems.
Surprising real-life uses: Square numbers aren’t just stuck in textbooks. They show up in architecture, computer science, chemistry, economics and even online security (like encryption). Maths isn’t just for the classroom—it’s behind the scenes in everyday life!

What’s a simple definition of a square number?

At its core, a square number is a whole number multiplied by itself. But that definition can feel abstract, so let’s break it down in a way that’s easier to picture.

Think of a square number as something you can physically arrange into a perfect square.

For example:

● ●
● ● (2 × 2 = 4)

By lining up objects like this, children can see that square numbers don’t just exist in sums—they form actual shapes!

Using hands-on activities is a great way to make this concept click. Try arranging Lego bricks, counters, or even coins into squares. Letting children build and see square numbers in action can make a huge difference in their understanding.

If your child learns best through videos and animations, there are fantastic free resources online. Websites like Corbett Maths, Maths Watch, Maths Genie, Physics and Maths Tutor and Seneca Learning have engaging explanations that walk through square numbers step by step.

For instance, try these explanations from BBC Bitesize and Corbett Maths, which are aimed at primary children.

How to explain square numbers to a child?

Children are introduced to square numbers at different stages, from simple patterns in early years to square roots and algebra later on. The key to making square numbers easy to understand is explaining them in a way that makes sense for their age and learning style.

For younger children (Key Stage 1, ages 5–7), square numbers might not be taught explicitly, but they will come across them in patterns, dot arrays and counting exercises. As they move into Key Stage 2 (ages 7–11), they’ll learn square numbers up to 100, so reinforcing the idea with multiplication and hands-on activities is helpful. By Key Stage 3 (ages 11–14), square numbers become part of bigger concepts like square roots and algebra, so recognising patterns and applying them is key.

To help children grasp square numbers, explain them in a way that suits their learning style:

Building squares: Challenge your child to arrange objects like bricks, counters or biscuits into squares. Seeing that 4 can be arranged in a 2×2 square and 9 in a 3×3 square helps them understand that square numbers always form equal rows and columns.
Multiplication grids: Highlight square numbers on a multiplication chart to show how they follow a pattern (1×1, 2×2, 3×3…). This helps children spot them quickly and see how they relate to times tables.
Memorising rules: Explain that a square number is just a number multiplied by itself (e.g., 5×5=25). Some children prefer clear, logical rules they can apply straight away. This can be a helpful approach for subjects like Core Maths.

Making learning interactive keeps children engaged and helps square numbers stick. Fun activities like games and movement-based learning also reinforce the concept—particularly useful for homeschooled children.

Hopscotch challenge: Write square numbers in a hopscotch grid and have your child jump between them. This helps with number recall and pattern recognition.
Guess the square: Say a number and ask if it’s a square number. If not, can they find the closest one? This builds quick recognition skills.
Spot the pattern: Challenge older children to list the first 10 square numbers and look for patterns, like how they increase (1, 4, 9, 16…). This helps with more advanced maths later on.

By using a mix of hands-on activities, visuals and number games, children can develop a strong understanding of square numbers—without just memorising facts.

How can you check if a number is a square number?

Square numbers crop up all the time in 11 Plus, SATs, GCSE and A Level maths—so being able to spot them can save loads of time in revision and exams. The good news? There are some super simple tricks to check whether a number is a square, even if you don’t have a calculator. Once you know what to look for, you’ll start recognising them straight-away.

Take the square root: If it’s a whole number, you’ve got a square number. If it’s a decimal, it’s not.
- √25 = 5 → 25 is a square number.
- √20 ≈ 4.47 → 20 is not a square number.
Compare with nearby squares: If a number sits between two square numbers but isn’t one itself, it’s not a square.
- 50 is between 49 (7²) and 64 (8²), so it’s not a square number.
Check the last digit: Square numbers always end in 0, 1, 4, 5, 6, or 9. If a number ends in 2, 3, 7, or 8, you can rule it out straight away!
Use prime factorisation (for bigger numbers): A number is a square if all its prime factors come in pairs.
- 36 = 2 × 2 × 3 × 3 → square number (all factors are paired).
- 18 = 2 × 3 × 3 → not a square number (the 2 is unpaired).

What’s the best trick to find the square of a number?

We’ve already covered comparing with nearby squares and checking the last digits (two of the simplest and most useful tricks), but here are three more super-speedy ways to square numbers without a calculator.

Out of all the methods for finding the square of a number (especially if it’s a larger number and you’re unsure where to start), breaking it down into component parts is the best trick. Here’s how to do it.

1. Breaking it down

Instead of multiplying the number by itself the long way, split it into an easier calculation.

To square 12, think of it as (10 + 2)² and expand:
(10 + 2)² = 10² + 2(10×2) + 2²
100 + 40 + 4 = 144 → So 12² = 144

This method works well for numbers just above 10 or 20, as you can break them into 10 + something or 20 + something.

2. Squaring numbers ending in 5

If a number ends in 5, there’s an easy shortcut.

Take the first digit, multiply it by itself +1, then stick 25 on the end.
Example: 25² → 2 × (2+1) = 6, then add 25 → 625
Example: 35² → 3 × (3+1) = 12, then add 25 → 1225

Works for any number ending in 5 (45², 55², etc.), making it a great mental maths trick!

3. Using nearby squares

If you need to square a number but already know a nearby square, use this quick adjustment trick.

If you know 20² = 400, you can find 21² by adding (2 × 20) + 1 to it:
21² = 20² + (2 × 20) + 1
400 + 40 + 1 = 441 → So 21² = 441

This method works best for numbers just above or below an easy square, like 19² (using 20²) or 29² (using 30²).

Once you’ve got these tricks down, squaring numbers becomes second nature. No need for long calculations—just smart, quick maths that makes maths exams so much easier.

What are the square numbers from 1 to 100?

Square numbers are simply whole numbers multiplied by themselves. They follow a predictable pattern, making them easy to recognise once you spot how they grow. The first ten square numbers are:

1, 4, 9, 16, 25, 36, 49, 64, 81, 100.

If you look at the gaps between each square number, you’ll notice an interesting pattern—the difference between consecutive squares increases by 2 each time:

4 – 1 = 3
9 – 4 = 5
16 – 9 = 7

This pattern continues as numbers get bigger, which helps when estimating square numbers and spotting them in sequences.

Is 20 a square number?

No, 20 is not a square number. This is because there isn’t a whole number you can multiply by itself to make exactly 20. If you take the square root, you get about 4.47, which isn’t a whole number.

One way to check is by looking at the nearest square numbers:

4 x 4 = 16
5 x 5 = 25

Since 20 falls between them, we know it’s not a perfect square.

Another way to think about it is visually. If you try to arrange 20 objects into a perfect square, it won’t work. This is a great trick for helping children understand square numbers.

Why is 2 not a square number?

Just like 20, the number 2 isn’t a square number because there’s no whole number that squares to make 2. Its square root is about 1.414, which isn’t a whole number. So it doesn’t fit the pattern of square numbers.

If you try to arrange 2 objects into a square, you’ll find it’s impossible—you can make a straight line, but not a full square. The closest square numbers are:

1 x 1 = 1 (1²)
2 x 2 = 4 (2²)

Since 2 falls between them but isn’t itself a square, we can say for sure that it doesn’t belong in the sequence of square numbers.

Does your child need support with maths?

Square numbers are just one of many maths concepts children need to understand as they progress through school. If your child finds maths challenging, the right support can make all the difference. Whether they’re preparing for the 11 Plus, SATs, or GCSE Maths, Achieve Learning provides expert tuition tailored to their needs.

Our friendly and experienced tutors help students build confidence, improve problem-solving skills, and develop a deeper understanding of core subjects. So if you’re looking for extra support to help your child succeed, get in touch today to find out how we can help.

What are Square Numbers? Definitions and Examples Read More »

Complete List of Grammar Schools 2025

This is an easy-to-use table for parents to help them find grammar schools that are near them. It displays an updated list of grammar schools and partially selective schools across various areas in the UK. Many parents will want to know which grammar schools are located in their area, and this table will help you.

The grammar school table is in list form. It allows you to search by region and name to see which grammar schools are near you. Links are also provided to each school so you can check up-to-date admissions information. Admissions requirements and exam formats can and do change, so please check regularly for any schools you may be targeting.

If there are none in your locality that you can apply for, you may find this article on grammar schools without a catchment area useful to explore other potential options.

School	Area	Test Provider
Adams Grammar School	Telford & Wrekin	GL Assessment
Alcester Grammar School	Warwickshire	GL Assessment
Altrincham Grammar School for Boys	Trafford	GL Assessment
Altrincham Grammar School for Girls	Trafford	GL Assessment
Archbishop's School	Kent	GL Assessment
Ashlawn School	Warwickshire	GL Assessment
Aylesbury Grammar School	Buckinghamshire	GL Assessment
Aylesbury High School	Buckinghamshire	GL Assessment
Bacup & Rawtenstall Grammar School	Lancashire	GL Assessment
Barton Court Grammar School	Kent	GL Assessment
Beaconsfield High School	Buckinghamshire	GL Assessment
Beths Grammar School	Greater London - Bexley	GL Assessment
Bexley Grammar School	Greater London - Bexley	GL Assessment
Bishop Vesey’s Grammar School	Birmingham	GL Assessment
Bishop Wordsworth School for Boys	Wiltshire	GL Assessment
Bishops Stortford High School	Hertfordshire	School Written Test
Borden Grammar School	Kent	GL Assessment
Boston Grammar School	Lincolnshire	GL Assessment
Boston High School	Lincolnshire	GL Assessment
Bourne Grammar School	Lincolnshire	GL Assessment
Bournemouth School	Bournemouth	GL Assessment
Bournemouth School for Girls	Bournemouth	GL Assessment
Burnham Grammar School	Buckinghamshire	GL Assessment
Caistor Grammar School	Lincolnshire	School Wrriten Verbal Reasoning Test
Calday Grange Grammar School	Wirral	GL Assessment
Carre’s Grammar School	Lincolnshire	GL Assessment
Chancellors School	Hertfordshire	No Entrance Exam
Chatham & Clarendon Grammar School	Kent	GL Assessment
Chatham Grammar School for Girls	Kent Medway	GL Assessment
Chaucer School	Kent	No Entrance Exam
Chelmsford County High School	Essex	FSCE 11+
Chesham Grammar School	Buckinghamshire	GL Assessment
Chislehurst & Sidcup Grammar School	Greater London - Bexley	GL Assessment
Churston Ferrers Grammar School	Torbay	GL Assessment
Clitheroe Royal Grammar School	Lancashire	GL Assessment
Colchester County High School	Essex	Essex 11+ CSSE
Colchester Royal Grammar School	Essex	Essex 11+ CSSE
Colyton Grammar School	Devon	FSCE 11+
Cranbrook School	Kent	GL Assessment
Crossley Heath Grammar School	Yorkshire - Calderdal	GL Assessment
Dame Alice Owen’s School	Hertfordshire	GL Assessment & School Written Test
Dane Court Grammar School	Kent	GL Assessment
Dartford Grammar School	Kent	GL Assessment
Dartford Grammar School for Girls	Kent	GL Assessment
Devonport High School for Boys	Plymouth	GL Assessment & School Written Test
Devonport High School for Girls	Plymouth	GL Assessment
Dover Grammar School for Boys	Kent	GL Assessment
Dover Grammar School for Girls	Kent	GL Assessment
Dr. Challoner's Grammar School	Buckinghamshire	GL Assessment
Dr. Challoner's High School	Buckinghamshire	GL Assessment
Ermysted’s Grammar School	Yorkshire North	GL Assessment
Fort Pitt Grammar School	Kent Medway	GL Assessment
Goffs School	Hertfordshire	Language Aptitude Test
Gravesend Grammar School	Kent	GL Assessment
Greenshaw High School	London Sutton	SET & School Written Test
Handsworth Grammar School for Boys	Birmingham	GL Assessment
Heckmondwike Grammar School	Yorkshire Kirklees	GL Assessment
Henrietta Barnett School	Greater London - Barnet	GL Assessment & School Written Test
Herschel Grammar School	Slough	GL Assessment
Hertfordshire & Essex High School	Hertfordshire	No Entrance Exam
Denmark Road High School for Girls	Gloucestershire	GL Assessment
Highsted Grammar School	Kent	GL Assessment
Highworth Grammar School	Kent	GL Assessment
Hockerill Anglo-European College	Hertfordshire	No Entrance Exam
Holcombe Grammar School	Kent Medway	GL Assessment
Homewood School	Kent	Kent 11+ Test
Ilford County High School for Boys	Greater London - Redbridge	GL Assessment
Invicta Grammar School	Kent	GL Assessment
John Hampden Grammar School	Buckinghamshire	GL Assessment
John Warner School	Hertfordshire	School Wrriten Verbal Reasoning Test
Kendrick School	Reading	GL Assessment
Kesteven & Grantham Girls’ School	Lincolnshire	GL Assessment
Kesteven & Sleaford High School Selective Academy	Lincolnshire	GL Assessment
King David High School	Liverpool	No Entrance Exam
King Edward VI Aston School	Birmingham	GL Assessment
King Edward VI Camp Hill School for Boys	Birmingham	GL Assessment
King Edward VI Camp Hill School for Girls	Birmingham	GL Assessment
King Edward VI Chelmsford	Essex	Essex 11+ CSSE
King Edward VI Five Ways School	Birmingham	GL Assessment
King Edward VI Grammar School	Lincolnshire	GL Assessment
King Edward VI Handsworth School	Birmingham	GL Assessment
King Edward VI School	Warwickshire	GL Assessment
Lancaster Girls’ Grammar School	Lancashire	GL Assessment
Lancaster Royal Grammar School	Lancashire	GL Assessment
Langley Grammar School	Slough	GL Assessment
Lawrence Sheriff School	Warwickshire	GL Assessment
Liverpool Blue Coat School	Liverpool	School Written Test
Loreto Grammar School	Trafford	GL Assessment & School Written Test
Maidstone Grammar School	Kent	GL Assessment
Maidstone Grammar School for Girls	Kent	GL Assessment
Marling School	Gloucestershire	GL Assessment
Mayfield Grammar School	Kent	GL Assessment
Mill Hill County High School	London Barnet	GL Assessment
Newport Girls' High School	Telford & Wrekin	GL Assessment
Newstead Wood School	Greater London - Bromley	GL Assessment
Nonsuch High School for Girls	Greater London - Sutton	SET & School Written Test
Oakwood Park Grammar School	Kent	GL Assessment
Parkstone Grammar School	Poole	GL Assessment
Parmiter’s School	Hertfordshire	GL Assessment
Pate’s Grammar School	Gloucestershire	GL Assessment
Plymouth High School for Girls	Plymouth	GL Assessment & School Written Test
Poole Grammar School	Poole	GL Assessment
Queen Elizabeth Grammar School	Cumbria	GL Assessment
Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School	Kent	GL Assessment
Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School	Lincolnshire	GL Assessment
Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School	Lincolnshire	GL Assessment
Queen Elizabeth’s High School	Lincolnshire	GL Assessment
Queen Elizabeth's School	Greater London - Barnet	GL Assessment
Queen Mary’s Grammar School	Telford & Wrekin	GL Assessment
Queen Mary’s High School	Telford & Wrekin	GL Assessment
Queens’ School	Hertfordshire	GL Assessment
Rainham Mark Grammar School	Kent Medway	GL Assessment
Reading School	Reading	FSCE 11+
Reading School for Girls	Reading	GL Assessment
Ribston Hall High School	Gloucestershire	GL Assessment
Rickmansworth School	Hertfordshire	GL Assessment
Ripon Grammar School	Yorkshire North	GL Assessment
Royal Grammar School	Buckinghamshire	GL Assessment
Rugby High School	Warwickshire	GL Assessment
Sale Grammar School	Trafford	GL Assessment
Shoeburyness High School	Essex	Essex 11+ CSSE
Simon Langton Girls’ Grammar School	Kent	GL Assessment
Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys	Kent	Kent 11+ Test
Sir Henry Floyd Grammar School	Buckinghamshire	GL Assessment
Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School	Kent Medway	GL Assessment
Sir Roger Manwood’s School	Kent	GL Assessment
Sir Thomas Rich’s School	Gloucestershire	GL Assessment
Sir William Borlase's School	Buckinghamshire	GL Assessment
Skegness Grammar School	Lincolnshire	GL Assessment
Skipton Girls’ High School	Yorkshire North	GL Assessment
South Wiltshire Grammar School	Wiltshire	GL Assessment
Southend High School for Boys	Essex	Essex 11+ CSSE
Southend High School for Girls	Essex	Essex 11+ CSSE
Spalding Grammar School	Lincolnshire	GL Assessment
Spalding High School	Lincolnshire	GL Assessment
St Bernard's Catholic Grammar School	Slough	GL Assessment
St Bernard's High School	Essex	Essex 11+ CSSE
St Clement Danes School	Hertfordshire	GL Assessment
St Michael’s Catholic Grammar School	Greater London - Barnet	GL Assessment
St Olave's Grammar School	Greater London - Bromley	GL Assessment
St Thomas More High School	Essex	Essex 11+ CSSE
St. Ambrose College	Trafford	GL Assessment & School Written Test
St. Anselm’s College	Wirral	GL Assessment & School Written Test
St. Hilda’s C of E High School	Liverpool	No Entrance Exam
St. Margaret’s C of E High School	Liverpool
Stratford Girls' Grammar School	Warwickshire	GL Assessment
Stretford Grammar School	Trafford	GL Assessment
Stroud High School	Gloucestershire	GL Assessment
Sutton Coldfield Grammar School for Girls	Birmingham	GL Assessment
Sutton Grammar School	Greater London - Sutton	SET & School Written Test
The Crypt School	Gloucestershire	GL Assessment
The Folkestone School for Girls	Kent	GL Assessment
The Harvey Grammar School	Kent	GL Assessment
The Howard School	Kent Medway	Kent 11+ Test
The Judd School	Kent	GL Assessment
The King John School	Essex	GL Assessment
The King’s School Grantham	Lincolnshire	GL Assessment
The Latymer School	Greater London - Enfield	GL Assessment & School Written Test
The North Halifax Grammar School	Yorkshire - Calderdal	GL Assessment
The Norton Knatchbull School	Kent	GL Assessment
The Rochester Grammar School	Kent Medway	GL Assessment
The Royal Latin School	Buckinghamshire	GL Assessment
The Skinners' School	Kent	GL Assessment
The Tiffin Girls' School	Greater London - Kingston upon Thames	GL Assessment & School Written Test
The Tiffin School	Greater London - Kingston upon Thames	GL Assessment & School Written Test
Tonbridge Grammar School	Kent	GL Assessment
Torquay Boys' Grammar School	Devon	CEM 11+
Torquay Girls' Grammar School	Devon	GL Assessment
Townley Grammar School	Greater London - Bexley	GL Assessment
Tunbridge Wells Girls’ Grammar School	Kent	GL Assessment
Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys	Kent	GL Assessment
Upton Court	Slough	GL Assessment
Upton Hall School	Wirral	GL Assessment
Urmston Grammar School	Trafford	GL Assessment
Wallington County Grammar School	Greater London - Sutton	SET & School Written Test
Wallington High School for Girls	Greater London - Sutton	SET & School Written Test
Watford Grammar School for Boys	Hertfordshire	GL Assessment
Watford Grammar School for Girls	Hertfordshire	GL Assessment
Weald of Kent Grammar School	Kent	GL Assessment
West Kirby Grammar School	Wirral	GL Assessment
Westcliff High School for Boys	Southend-on-Sea	Essex 11+ CSSE
Westcliff High School for Girls	Southend-on-Sea	Essex 11+ CSSE
Westlands School	Kent	Kent 11+ Test
Wilmington Grammar School for Boys	Kent	GL Assessment
Wilmington Grammar School for Girls	Kent	GL Assessment
Wilson’s School	Greater London - Sutton	SET & School Written Test
Wirral Grammar School	Wirral	GL Assessment
Wirral Grammar School for Girls	Wirral	GL Assessment
Wolverhampton High School for Girls	Wolverhampton	GL Assessment
Woodford County High School for Girls	Greater London - Redbridge	GL Assessment
Wycombe High School	Buckinghamshire	GL Assessment

Complete List of Grammar Schools 2025 Read More »

What’s a Good 11 Plus Forum 2026? A Parents’ Guide

Last updated: August 2026 – updated with current guidance for finding 11+ forums and communities.

If you’re navigating the sometimes murky waters of the 11 Plus, you might have heard about 11 Plus forums. For anyone applying to selective grammar or private schools, these online communities are a goldmine of advice, shared experiences and resources. But they can feel overwhelming if you’re not sure where to start.

In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what an 11 Plus forum is, how to find one that’s right for you (and the schools your child is applying to) as well as weighing up the pros and cons. We’ll also answer some of the most common questions on these forums.

With a thorough understanding of 11 Plus forums and what to look for, you can focus on what really matters: helping your child prepare for secondary school.

What is an 11 Plus forum?

In a nutshell, an 11 Plus forum is an online community where parents, tutors and sometimes past-pupils share information and support through the 11 Plus journey. You’ll find parents discussing exam formats, preparation strategies, deadlines, admission criteria and even sharing or swapping practice papers.

Some 11+ forums are broad and cover multiple regions. Others are very specific, focusing on one county, consortium or even a single school.

These forums are useful because the 11 Plus isn’t a one-size-fits-all exam. Depending where you live and which school you’re aiming for, the requirements, formats, scoring methods and key dates vary. So, while one forum might discuss the latest GL Assessment papers, another might be all about the unique format of an independent school’s exam.

So, where can you find a good 11 Plus forum? Here are some tips.

How can I find a good 11 Plus forum?

Finding an 11 Plus forum that’s useful for your situation means legwork upfront. But in short, you’ll want to focus on your local area (or even specific schools), find out what platforms other parents are using and remember to include the year. Here are some key steps and places to begin your search.

1. Focus on your local area first

Since 11 Plus requirements differ by region (and even from school to school), start looking for a forum based on your county or city. For example, you might search for:

If you’re in a larger area like London, search for a forum based on your specific area. For instance:

2. Narrow down to specific schools or consortia

Your next step is narrowing things down further.

Let’s say you’re in the Trafford or Greater Manchester area, searching for an 11 Plus forum. Here, there are seven grammar schools. Five are part of the Trafford Grammar School Consortium, meaning they all use the same 11 Plus exam. In this case, searching for a forum specific to the Trafford consortium can provide you with targeted information.

The other two grammars may have their own forums or discussion threads (as they operate independently with separate 11 Plus exams)—so keep an eye out for school-specific groups.

Figuring out exactly which forum you need requires a bit of research. To help you understand the 11+ process and how it differs between schools, we’ve linked to our area-specific guides above.

3. Include the exam year in your search

Always add the year to your search query (e.g. “11 Plus Forum 2025”). This ensures you’re getting the most current information, as exam formats and admission criteria change from year to year.

You don’t want to accidentally base your 11 Plus preparations on a forum that’s based on 2022! So always check the name and date carefully.

4. Places to start your search

Once you know what you’re searching for, there are a few common places where parents get together on 11 Plus forums. Start with popular websites like Netmums, Mumsnet, Reddit and Facebook. Also, don’t forget your “real-life” connections with fellow school parents and local tuition centers. They may be open to starting a WhatsApp group.

Netmums 11 Plus forums: A popular platform where many parents share their experiences. Contrary to the name, Dads are welcome to join these groups too!
Mumsnet 11 Plus forums: Another well-known parenting community with lively discussions and plenty of advice.
Facebook groups: There are numerous Facebook groups dedicated to the 11 Plus, often organised by region or specific schools.
Reddit: Subreddits related to the 11 Plus can be a good place to ask specific questions and get diverse opinions.
Your child’s current school: Don’t overlook local resources—other parents might have already set up WhatsApp groups or email threads.
Local tuition centres: Many centres, including our Achieve Learning Harrow tuition centre, are hubs of local knowledge. They often organise mock tests and workshops, where you might meet other parents applying to the same schools.

If you can’t find a suitable forum, consider starting one yourself. It could be as simple as a WhatsApp group or a Facebook page for local parents. Collaboration is key for the 11 Plus. Once you’re in contact with others, you’ll discover the benefits of pooling resources and knowledge—not just for academics and practical info, but moral support and friendship along the way.

What are the pros and cons of 11 Plus forums?

Like most things online, 11 Plus forums have their ups and downs. They’re supportive and welcoming with plenty of localised advice. But when using 11 Plus forums, always cross-check information with official sources (like council or school websites). Here’s a quick rundown of the main pros and cons.

The advantages of 11 Plus forums

Community and support: Forums connect you with parents in the same boat. Sharing tips, success stories, and even a bit of stress can make the process feel less isolating.
Resource sharing: Many parents swap practice tests, share links to useful articles and discuss exam strategies. This can give you a broader perspective on what to expect.
Localised information: On region-specific forums, you’ll get detailed insights into the admission criteria, exam formats and deadlines for local grammar schools.
Networking: The connections you make here might even help your child later on—friends made during the 11 Plus journey sometimes turn into lasting school connections.

While the advantages of 11 Plus forums are great for all parents, they’re particularly useful for the homeschooling community aiming for grammar school entry.

The disadvantages of 11 Plus forums

Reliability: Not every post or shared resource will be 100% accurate or up-to-date. It’s important to cross-check critical information with official sources or your school.
Outdated information: Since exam formats and admission criteria change, what worked last year might not be relevant this year. Look out for posts that clearly state the exam year.
Variable quality: Forums are as good as the community that uses them. Sometimes, you might find discussions that are off-topic, unhelpful or even a bit overwhelming if too many opinions clash.
Changing dynamics: Forums vary from year to year, depending on the mix of parents involved. A forum with a sterling reputation last year might not be as active or knowledgeable this year.

11 Plus forums: your most common questions answered

Before we wrap up, let’s answer the most common questions asked on 11 Plus forums. These come up time and time again, so having a good understanding in advance will help you dive straight into the most useful discussions—whether you’re looking for school-specific advice or general exam prep tips.

Do you have to pass the 11+ to go to a grammar school?

Yes, for almost all grammar schools, passing the 11 Plus is the main route for Year 7 entry. However, there are some exceptions:

Alternative entry routes: Some schools offer places with a lower qualifying score for children in care, the local vicinity or those with exceptional circumstances. In rare cases, schools may also have additional assessments for students who just miss the pass mark.
Late entry options: If your child isn’t applying for Year 7, the 11 Plus may not be required. Many grammar schools accept students into Year 8, Year 9, or even sixth-form based on school reports, internal entrance exams or GCSE results.
Super-selective vs. “standard” grammar schools: Some grammar schools (particularly in highly competitive areas) only admit the highest-scoring applicants, while others have a set pass mark. So a “pass” will look different depending on which school you’re applying to.

Because admissions policies vary, it’s essential to check the criteria for each specific school.

What’s the hardest subject in the 11 Plus?

The hardest subject in the 11 Plus depends on the individual child and exam format. You’ll usually face some combination of English, Maths, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning. That said, however, non-verbal reasoning is commonly seen as the toughest. Why? Mainly because it requires a type of thinking that most primary schools don’t explicitly teach.

Non-verbal reasoning involves spotting sequences and patterns in shapes, numbers and diagrams. Your child will tackle “spatial relationships” (i.e., how 3D shapes rotate) and use logic to solve puzzles.

As it’s not a primary subject, most children find non-verbal reasoning unfamiliar at first. However, with regular practice, almost all students will improve significantly. Working with past papers (tailored to your region or specific schools) will help you understand which topics your child finds challenging.

Are 11+ results adjusted for age?

Yes, in almost all cases, age-standardised scoring is used for the 11 Plus. This means a child born in August won’t be directly compared to one born in September of the previous year. Their score is adjusted to account for the age difference.

The goal of this system is ensuring younger children aren’t disadvantaged. An 11-month gap can make a big difference in cognitive development at this stage. However, the way scores are adjusted depends on the exam provider. So it’s always worth checking with individual schools.

What percentage of children pass the 11 Plus?

The percentage of children passing the 11 Plus varies depending on the area and school. It’s impacted not only by the difficulty of the test, but also competition and how many Year 7 places are available. But in general, around 30% of students pass the 11 Plus.

In highly competitive areas like North London (for instance), you might find lower pass rates. Conversely, in areas like Kent (with the most grammars in the country, 38 to be exact), pass rates may be higher.

Some schools operate on a fixed pass mark, meaning all children who reach the required score qualify. Others are super-selective, meaning only the highest-scoring students get in, even if they technically pass.

Can a child pass the 11 Plus without tutoring?

Plenty of children pass the 11+ without formal tuition, particularly if they have strong foundational skills in English and Maths, as well as parental involvement. However, it’s important to remember that the 11 Plus is different from standard schoolwork. Many parents find a combination of self-study, online resources and 1-1 tutoring works well.

Here are a few factors to consider:

Natural ability: Some children have a natural aptitude for verbal and non-verbal reasoning, meaning they’ll pick this up quickly. A short round of tuition could give them the start (or final edge) to perform at their best.
Parental support: If you’re comfortable helping your child with practice papers, exam techniques and explaining tricky concepts, formal tuition might not be necessary
School curriculum: Some primary schools cover a lot of 11 Plus content, while others don’t. If your child’s school doesn’t, extra preparation (either self-study or tuition) is needed.
Practice exposure: Even if a child is strong academically, they may struggle with exam timing or question styles if they haven’t practised before. So mock tests and practice papers are essential.

What age should you start preparing for the 11 Plus?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer for starting 11 Plus preparations. However many experts suggest a light introduction at age 7 or 8. Focus on reading, spelling, vocabulary, mental maths and logic puzzles. This builds a strong foundation without overwhelming your child.

Around age 9 or 10, it’s time for more structured preparation. This is when most tuition starts, covering exam techniques and question styles in greater depth. You’ll also want to explore creative writing and sentence structure, focusing on things like imperatives, connectives and subordinate clauses.

At Achieve Learning, we recommend that parents start with some appropriate age- and ability-based papers in year 4 and 5 rather than waiting until the end of year 5, thereby ensuring children develop skills gradually and with confidence.

What if my child fails the 11 Plus?

Failing the 11 Plus isn’t the end of the world, as there are plenty of fantastic alternatives. If your child struggles with the academic nature of the 11+, there’s a chance that grammar school isn’t the environment for them to thrive. Supportive private schools or specialist state secondaries may be a fantastic fit.

If your child fails the 11 Plus, you’ve got several options:

Appealing the result: If your child was close to the pass mark and had extenuating circumstances (such as illness or family disruption), an appeal may be an option. Many parents find 11 Plus forums helpful for advice on appeals, late-entry exams and alternative schools.
Applying for late-entry places: Some grammar schools have entry tests for Year 8, Year 9 or even Year 10. If your child just missed out in Year 7, this could be another chance.
Considering other high-performing schools: Many comprehensive schools achieve excellent results and offer strong academic support.
Looking at independent schools: Leading private schools and boarding schools often offer scholarships and bursaries for talented students in academics, music or sports, making them more affordable than many parents realise.

Final thoughts: 11 Plus forums to boost your preparation

11 Plus forums can be an incredibly valuable resource for exam preparation, offering insights you might not find elsewhere. They can help you navigate the region-specific requirements of the 11 Plus, while also providing a supportive community of like-minded parents.

Remember though, while these forums are useful, they should complement your research—not replace it. Always double-check critical details with official sources.

Preparing for the 11+ alongside your forum research?

Forums are great for community and shared experience, but nothing replaces working through real exam-style papers under timed conditions. Our practice papers are written specifically for the QE Boys exam format — one of the most demanding 11+ papers in the country — and the comprehension and SPaG skills they build are strong preparation for most 11+ exams generally.

→ 11+ English Practice Papers — from £19.99

Created by 11+ content specialists with over 22 years of experience preparing children for competitive grammar school entry.

What’s a Good 11 Plus Forum 2026? A Parents’ Guide Read More »

What Is a Proper Noun? Definitions and Examples

Teaching your child about grammar can feel daunting. Especially if you’re less confident with the foundational concepts yourself. But it doesn’t have to be that way! We’re here to help.

Today, we’re looking at proper nouns—those specific names we use for people, places and things, like London, Harry Potter or Christmas. Unlike common nouns, which are more general, proper nouns always start with a capital letter.

In this article, we’ll help you make sense of proper nouns by breaking them down into bite-sized examples and definitions for easy-to-digest teaching. We’ll explore what nouns are, what makes proper nouns special and share some fun, practical games to play with your child at home.

What’s a proper noun and a common noun?

Before we discuss proper nouns and common nouns, let’s make sure we’re clear on what nouns are.

In English, a common noun is a word that names a person, place or thing. It’s like the label on a jar that tells you what’s inside.

For example:

Teacher names a person.
City names a place.
Cup names a thing.
Dog names an animal.

Now, within this world of nouns, there’s a special group called proper nouns. Proper nouns give a specific, unique name to a person, place or thing.

Consider the difference:

City is generic.
London is specific.

When you see London with a capital “L”, it tells you exactly which city is referred to, distinguishing it from any other city. This capitalisation helps us quickly recognise that a proper noun is unique and special.

In addition to proper nouns and common nouns, you’re also likely to come across:

Abstract nouns: These represent ideas or feelings, such as happiness or courage.
Collective nouns: These describe groups of people or things, such as team or flock.

What’s a proper noun definition?

A proper noun is a word that names one specific person, place or thing. Like Alex, Edinburgh or The Louvre. They’re different from common nouns which name things in general, like a man, city or museum. Helpfully, proper nouns always start with a capital letter. This isn’t just an arbitrary rule—it’s a way of signalling the noun is unique and has its own identity.

There are two main aspects of a proper noun:

Specificity: A proper noun points to one particular person, place or object. For instance, Emma refers to one specific person, whereas girl could refer to any girl.
Capitalisation: The rule is clear. Proper nouns always have a capital letter at the start. This is like giving them a badge of honour.

How do you explain a proper noun to a child?

So, what’s a proper noun definition for kids?

When it comes to explaining proper nouns to a child, creativity is key. Once you’ve covered the basic definition (something simple like “A proper noun is a special name for a person, place or thing. It always starts with a capital letter.”), it’s all about making the concept clear and fun.

Analogies and comparisons are great for simplifying the idea of proper nouns. Try:

Relatable comparisons: Compare a generic noun to a proper noun. For example, say, “Imagine you have a pet dog. ‘Dog’ is a common noun because it could be any dog. But if your dog’s name is Buddy, that’s a proper noun, because it refers to your very special pet.”
VIP analogy: Explain that in the world of words, every noun is a member of a big party. Most nouns are like everyday guests, but proper nouns are VIPs who get a special name tag (a capital letter) to show they’re extra important.
Capital letter crown: Tell your child that proper nouns wear a “capital letter crown” to stand out from the crowd. This crown is what makes them look special on paper.

What’s a proper noun example?

Real-life examples are best for clarifying abstract ideas. So any examples related to your child’s interests or knowledge are great for explaining proper nouns. In fact, concrete examples are perfect for teaching children about various aspects of spelling and grammar (whether metaphors, similes, imperatives, connectives, the list goes on)—whether as part of primary, or into secondary school, GCSEs and A Levels.

Here are a few straightforward proper noun examples:

Sarah: A name that clearly points to a specific person. That’s my name!
Fido: A name that identifies a pet, your friend’s dog, for example.
Manchester: A city known by this exact name. It’s not just any city. Yes, that’s where we live!
The British Museum: A place full of history and art. It’s a museum. Would you like to go?

Each of these examples is unique and must be written with a capital letter. Why? Because they pinpoint specific entities, rather than abstract ideas, groups or things in general.

What’s a proper noun example for kids?

When teaching younger children, it helps to use examples directly relevant to their lives and interests. So it’s best to think of examples tailored to different age groups. For instance:

Proper nouns for Key Stage 1

At this early curriculum stage (ages 5-7), learning about proper nouns should feel like a fun discovery rather than a formal grammar lesson. Young children relate best to everyday examples, so focus on people, places and things they love. While grammar isn’t a major focus at this age, recognising capital letters in names will give them a head start for Year 2 SATs.

John: A friend or family member’s name.
Disneyland: A magical place they might have seen in pictures or on TV.
Barbie: A beloved toy with a special name.

Proper nouns for Key Stage 2

As children progress to KS2 (ages 7-11), they’ll encounter proper nouns in books, history lessons, and even in preparation for Year 6 SATs or 11 Plus exams. At this stage, they should understand that proper nouns always begin with a capital letter and refer to specific people, places or organisations.

Harry Potter: The famous wizard from the books and films.
Oxford: A well-known city and university that might be mentioned in history lessons.
BBC: A familiar broadcasting organisation that often appears on TV or radio.

Proper nouns for Key Stage 3

At this stage (ages 11-14), students are developing more advanced reading and writing skills. So examples can include proper nouns from literature, geography, and well-known brands.

Shakespeare: A famous playwright studied in English lessons.
The Eiffel Tower: A specific landmark, reinforcing the importance of capitalisation in place names.
Nike: A brand name, helping students understand that company names are also proper nouns.

Proper nouns for Key Stage 4

By the time students are preparing for GCSEs (ages 14-16), they should confidently identify proper nouns in complex texts: anything from literature and historical studies to speeches, news articles and interviews. Understanding proper nouns helps with both creative and analytical essay writing, where students must write ambitiously and accurately.

George Orwell: A well-known author whose works, like Animal Farm, are studied in English.
World War II: A historical event, reinforcing that names of significant events are proper nouns.
The Guardian: A specific newspaper, helping students distinguish between general terms (a newspaper) and proper nouns (The Guardian).

To deepen understanding at KS3 and KS4, it’s also worth discussing abstract proper nouns. For instance, explore named concepts like The Renaissance or The Industrial Revolution.

Proper nouns like The Renaissance or The Industrial Revolution name unique events or movements that shaped history, setting them apart from common nouns like a revolution or a cultural shift. Recognising these distinctions helps students refine their understanding of how proper nouns function—not just in their English studies, but other subjects like History too.

What are 10 examples of proper nouns?

For even more examples, here’s a handy list of ten proper nouns covering a range of familiar topics. These examples highlight how proper nouns give us a clear idea of what specific person, place or thing is referred to, thanks to their uniqueness and consistent capitalisation.

Alice: A specific person.
Glasgow: A specific city in Scotland.
McDonald’s: A globally recognised restaurant chain.
Adidas: A renowned brand known for sportswear.
Arthur Miller: The famous playwright.
Amazon: Not just a river, but also a modern multinational company.
Arc de Triomphe: An iconic landmark in Paris.
Coca-Cola: A well-known beverage brand.
Tesla: A pioneering company in the electric vehicle industry.
King Charles: A notable historical or contemporary figure.

What are common and proper noun games for kids?

Making grammar interactive can turn learning into an adventure. Instead of just memorising definitions, children learn best when they can see, hear and do. That’s where games come in! By turning proper nouns into a scavenger hunt, a fast-paced bingo game, or a hands-on sorting challenge, kids move, think and have fun—all while reinforcing grammar skills.

Here are four fun games to help children grasp the difference between common and proper nouns.

1. Noun scavenger hunt

This active game helps kids identify proper and common nouns in a fun, hands-on way.

Write down a mix of common and proper nouns on index cards.
Hide them around the house or classroom.
Ask your child to find the cards and decide which are proper nouns and which are common nouns.
For an extra challenge, they can use the nouns in sentences to prove their understanding. This could also help with other sentence structure topics, like subjects and objects, active vs passive voice, fronted adverbials and subordinate clauses.

2. Capital letter bingo

A twist on the classic bingo game that reinforces capitalisation rules.

Create bingo cards with a mix of common and proper nouns.
Call out a noun—if it’s a proper noun, players must capitalise it before marking it off.
First person to complete a row shouts “Bingo!” and wins.
This game strengthens recognition skills and makes learning interactive.

3. Sentence building relay

A fast-paced game that helps kids practise using nouns in context.

Write out simple sentences with missing nouns on cards.
Provide a pile of noun cards (a mixture of proper and common nouns).
Have your child fill in the blanks, then explain why each noun fits and whether it should be capitalised.
You can make it competitive by timing how quickly they complete sentences correctly!

4. Noun sorting challenge

Perfect for visual and tactile learners, this sorting game makes noun classification easy.

Set up two baskets, one labelled “Proper Nouns” and the other “Common Nouns.”
Cut out words from magazines, write them on flashcards, or use printed word lists.
Have your child sort the words into the correct basket.
For extra reinforcement, ask them to explain why a noun belongs in each category.

These games make learning grammar enjoyable and engaging, helping children build confidence in recognising and using proper nouns correctly. Happy learning, and remember: every proper noun deserves its capital letter crown!

Want to help your child with spelling and grammar?

At Achieve Learning, we’re dedicated to ensuring every child thrives academically with the confidence they need to succeed. From personalised 11 Plus tuition, to Year 2 and Year 6 SATs support, GCSE English and academic coaching, we’ll help your child build firm foundations to excel in school and beyond.

To help your child develop a love for learning and sharpen their skills, get in touch today. Together, we can turn every challenge into an opportunity—and help your child achieve their true potential.

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What is a Simile? Definitions and Examples

Understanding English Language techniques can feel like one big, colourful (and slightly confusing!) puzzle. One important piece of that puzzle is the simile—a fun and creative way to compare things that might seem totally different at first glance.

Whether you’re a parent helping your child navigate KS2 English and 11 Plus preparation or a GCSE student looking to add extra sparkle to your writing, this guide will help you make sense of similes.

We’ll explain what similes are, share plenty of helpful examples, rules for spotting them and the reasons why they pack such a punch in writing. We’ll end with top tips for crafting your own attention-grabbing similes, so you can make your creative writing shine like the stars.

See? We’re using similes already! Let’s dive in.

What does simile mean?

Let’s start with the basics.

What’s the definition of a simple simile?

A simile is a figure of speech comparing two different things using words like “like”, “than” or “as.” The idea is pointing out a similarity between them, even though they might seem completely unrelated. For example, “Her smile is as bright as the sun” tells us not only that someone’s smile is big and beaming, but the phrase also conjures up the warming, cheerful image of sunshine.

Think of it as a creative shortcut. Similes help you describe something in a way that’s easy for readers to picture. Instead of just saying “she ran fast”, the simile “she shot-off like a bullet” gives a vivid image of a person that sticks in peoples’ minds.

So the more original and unusual you can make your similes (while still making sense and getting your key message across), the better.

What is a simile for kids?

For younger learners, explain similes as a fun way to compare one thing to another. Start with simple words and tailor examples to their interests.

For instance, imagine you’re telling a story about their favourite superhero. You say, “He’s as strong as a bear and as clever as a fox.” This isn’t just a fancy way of saying he’s strong and smart. It also gives everyone listening a clear image in their minds.

Some other child-friendly alternatives?

A beautiful princess? Her skin was as soft as silk.
A clever football player? Her footwork was as fast as lightning.
A scary dinosaur? Its sharp teeth were like swords.

You get the idea.

Using similes makes everyday language more exciting. When kids start recognising and using similes, they learn that language isn’t just about getting facts across. It’s also about having fun with words and painting pictures in the listener’s mind.

What is a simile example?

Let’s look at a few more examples to really understand how similes work:

He sings like a nightingale: This simile compares someone’s singing to that of a nightingale—a bird known for its beautiful song. It suggests the person’s voice is exceptionally lovely.
The sheet was as white as snow: Here, the brightness and purity of snow is compared to a crisp, white sheet, creating a clear visual image.
Her laughter was like music to my ears: This simile tells us that someone’s laughter was not just pleasant but also had the harmonious quality of music.
His ideas spread like wildfire in a dry forest: This simile suggests his ideas caught on quickly and spread rapidly, just like fire in dry conditions.
The silence was as thick as a wool blanket: This compares silence to something heavy and all-encompassing. A silence so intense you could almost touch it.

Each of these examples uses a simple, clear comparison to add depth to the description—making writing more interesting and relatable.

Why are similes powerful?

Similes pack a real punch in language, because they’re all about making unique connections. They help us understand and appreciate the qualities of something (or someone) by linking it to something else we already know. This makes our descriptions richer, more colourful and easier to remember.

And memorable writing is exactly what examiners are looking for, whether as part of 11 Plus stories, GCSE speeches or English Language exams. Spotting and discussing what makes similes so effective is also a key part of GCSE and A Level English Literature analysis. So they really are important.

Here are a few reasons why similes are such powerful tools.

They create vivid imagery: By drawing a comparison, similes help us paint a mental picture that’s more detailed and colourful than plain language. Saying “as quiet as a church” immediately gives you a clear image of silence.
They make abstract ideas concrete: Sometimes it’s hard to explain an abstract concept like bravery or sadness. A simile can take something intangible and tie it to a familiar image, making it easier to understand. For example, “as brave as a lion” instantly communicates courage.
They add a personal touch: Similes can evoke emotions and memories. When you hear someone say “like a breath of fresh air,” it doesn’t just describe something clean or new—it might also remind you of a lovely day you spent outside, that last country walk you took, or the windows in your home flung wide open. This makes descriptions much more personal and emotive.
They enhance creativity: When you use similes, you’re not just writing or speaking to communicate information—you’re creating art with your words. They can be surprising, beautiful, shocking… it’s up to you and your imagination. This creative twist makes writing and reading a more engaging and enjoyable experience.

How do you identify a simile?

Spotting a simile is easier than you might think. Start by looking for keywords such as “like” or “as”. Then, ask yourself if the phrase is comparing two separate things. If you’ve got both elements, you’ve probably spotted a simile!

Remember: a simile differs from a metaphor, which says something is another thing, rather than just comparing.

Here’s what to look for:

The keywords “like” or “as”: Most similes include these words. For example, “as busy as a bee” or “like a bolt of lightning” immediately indicate a comparison. You might also see “than” (as in, “slower than a snail”).
Two distinct elements: A simile always compares two different things. One is usually something familiar, and the other is what’s being described.
Enhanced description: Ask yourself if the sentence is trying to create a clear, vivid picture in your mind. If the answer is yes, you could be dealing with a simile.

What is a simile for KS2?

In Key Stage Two (or KS2, covering ages 7-11), similes are a way to make language more vivid and engaging. At this curriculum stage, children are encouraged to use similes to express comparisons in a fun and imaginative way. So, a KS2 simile might be something like: “as dry as the desert”.

Teachers and parents can work together to spark creativity by asking open-ended questions like, “How would you describe a rainy day?” or “What could you compare the sound of my voice to?”. You could play games with match-up picture cards to make your own similes or have a fun “simile of the day”.

This not only makes learning interactive but builds expressive language skills, useful as students progress to higher-level analysis and creative writing.

What is a simile for Year 6?

For Year 6 students, similes become even more engaging as they work with advanced examples. This prepares students for the challenges of grammar and private school 11+ exams (especially verbal reasoning), SATs and secondary school.

At this level, connect everyday experiences with more nuanced and descriptive language. Rather than saying “The cat is as quiet as a mouse,” a more advanced simile might be, “The cat moved as silently as a shadow gliding across the floor.” This not only paints a clearer picture but also introduces richer vocabulary and more detailed imagery.

In Year 6, it’s good to encourage children to think beyond basic comparisons. Ask questions like, “How would you describe your favourite meal using a simile?” or “Can you compare today’s weather to something else in nature?” This pushes them to explore surroundings and expand their vocabulary—forming similes that are both creative and precise.

How can you write a good simile?

Now we have a firm understanding of what similes are and why they’re such powerful tools in writing. How do you craft your own?

Well, crafting a good simile is both an art and a science. You’ve got to identify two things, find the common trait and build this into a vivid description. Similes are all about making connections. It’s like discovering a hidden bridge between the everyday and the extraordinary.

Here are steps to help you write similes that shine.

Find the common trait: Start by identifying the quality (or qualities) you want to accentuate with your simile. For example, if you’re describing a villain character, think about something that’s famously scary or carries connotations of evil—maybe a snake or a snarling wolf.
Pick your subjects: Then, narrow it down to the two things you want to compare. One will be the subject of your description, and the other should be something familiar to your reader. Even though similes are best if they use something familiar, this doesn’t mean they have to be “boring”. In fact, the more unique and original your comparisons, the better.
Use clear connecting words:
Make sure you include “like” or “as” to show that you’re making a comparison. For example, “He hissed like a snake” is straightforward and easy to identify as a simile.
Keep it simple at first: A good simile is simple and direct. Avoid overcomplicating your initial comparison with too many details, which might confuse your reader instead of helping them see the picture you’re trying to paint.
Then add depth: While it’s good to keep your initial simile simple, adding subsequent depth will bring it to life. Keep that descriptive language going. For example: “He hissed like a snake. His tongue seemed to dart and slither in his mouth, while his eyes narrowed and glared out of their dark hollows.”
Go specific: For more advanced writers, go beyond the obvious. The more specific your similes are, the clearer pictures they’ll paint. For example: instead of: “Her teeth flashed like swords”, how does “her teeth flashed like daggers” or “her rapier-like teeth” change your overall impression?
Test it out: Read your simile aloud. Does it flow naturally? Does it create the image or evoke the feeling you were aiming for? If not, tweak it until it feels just right.
Get creative: Don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Sometimes the most unexpected comparisons create the most memorable similes.

With practice, writing similes will become easier. So have some fun with them! Soon you’ll find they add a wonderful burst of creativity and flair to your writing.

Does your child need help with creative writing?

Similes are a fantastic way to make language more vibrant and expressive. They help us share complex ideas and emotions in a way that’s easy to visualise and understand. Whether you’re a parent guiding your child through homework or a GCSE or A Level student looking to enhance your essays, knowing how to use and spot similes can make a big difference.

At Achieve Learning, we believe every child deserves the confidence to succeed. Our expert tutors offer tailored support for 11 Plus exams, SATs, general reading and GCSE English support, helping students master key skills and build a strong academic foundation.

Ready to see your child thrive? Get in touch today and let’s unlock their full potential.

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What is a Metaphor? Definitions and Examples

Metaphors are a key feature of English Language and creative writing. They add colour, depth and emotion to everyday speech and great literature. But, what exactly are they? And how can you explain metaphors to your child?

In this blog, we’ll define what metaphors are, before looking at explanations for different age groups and academic levels. We’ll also compare metaphors with similes and provide a list of creative examples to inspire your writing.

Whether you’re a student, parent, teacher or simply love how language works, you’ll find clear and accessible insights into the world of metaphors. Ready? Let’s jump in.

What’s a metaphor definition?

A metaphor is a figure of speech that makes a direct comparison between two things that may appear unrelated. Rather than using connecting words such as “like” or “as” (common in similes) a metaphor states that one thing is another. Metaphors are fantastic literary tools because they encapsulate complex ideas and emotions in a concise and imaginative manner.

Let’s take an example.

If someone uses a metaphor like “Time is a thief”, they are not implying that time literally steals. Instead, they are metaphorically suggesting that time can take away moments or experiences in a way that feels sudden or stealthy.

Metaphors let writers highlight qualities in a way that’s more engaging and imaginative than plain language. By equating one object or concept with another, metaphors help us see the world in new and unexpected ways.

What’s a metaphor definition for kids?

For younger audiences, explain a metaphor as a creative way to make descriptions more interesting. It’s something that compares two things, by saying they are one another. But we don’t mean this literally!

To explain further, try an analogy. For instance, think of a metaphor like a little word puzzle where two things fit together. The completed puzzle helps paint a picture in the reader’s mind—one that’s much clearer than when the pieces are separate.

For instance, saying “The classroom was a zoo” is a metaphor that suggests the classroom was lively, noisy or even a bit chaotic—similar to the way a zoo is full of different animals and activity. But do we really mean the classroom was a zoo? No! It’s just similar in some ways.

By using metaphors (tailored to their experiences and interests), children learn that language can be playful and expressive. This not only makes learning fun but also encourages them to use their imagination when describing the world around them.

What’s the best way to explain a metaphor?

The best way to explain a metaphor is breaking it down step by step, making every stage clear and understandable. Start with a definition, use plenty of familiar examples and help your audience visualise the imagery.

Here are some steps to follow:

Define the concept: Begin by explaining that a metaphor is a way to compare two things by saying one is the other. A metaphor highlights a particular quality or idea shared between the two. Keep the definition simple, then go into more depth with your examples.
Use familiar examples: Choose simple and relatable examples, such as “The world’s a stage.” This comparison suggests that life is like a play, with everyone having a role to perform. You could even try spotting metaphors in your child’s favourite books.
Visualise the comparison: As part of your examples, encourage visualisation. For example, if you say “Her smile is sunshine,” ask what images come to mind when thinking about sunshine. Happiness? Warmth? Light? This helps understand how metaphors create vivid images or emotion.
Relate to everyday experiences: Show how metaphors appear in everyday language. Not just literary fiction! A common phrase they’ve already heard, like “life is a rollercoaster” or “we’re all in the same boat”, can make metaphors easier to grasp.
Invite creation: As a final step, help your child create their own metaphors. Questions like “how would you describe the swimming pool?”, “how would you describe Grandpa?” stimulate creative thinking and reinforce the concept through everyday practice.

What’s a metaphor example?

Here are a few examples to help you get the hang of metaphors—starting off simple and getting more complex as we go. Simple and extended metaphors are perfect for KS2 students just starting to explore figurative language. Implied, literary and conceptual metaphors are great for GCSE and A Level students looking to level-up their speech writing and creative skills.

No matter the complexity, each metaphor transforms ordinary ideas into powerful images, helping communicate feelings and concepts effectively.

Simple metaphor: His words were a knife to the chest. – This metaphor compares his words to a weapon, suggesting the hurt they caused.
Extended metaphor: The city was a sleeping giant, its streets quiet and still, waiting for the morning sun to stir it awake. – This metaphor develops the idea of a city as a living being, emphasising its transition from night to day.
Implied metaphor: She sailed through the exam, effortlessly navigating each question like a captain steering through calm waters. – This compares someone’s test-taking skills to sailing without directly stating “She was a sailor.”
Literary metaphor: Hope was a fragile bird, perched in her heart, its wings trembling with the possibility of flight but never quite taking off. – A poetic metaphor, inspired by Emily Dickinson’s famous poem “Hope is the thing with feathers.”
Conceptual metaphor: Time is a thief that silently steals our moments, leaving us only with fading memories and the echoes of laughter. – This frames time as a criminal, highlighting its unstoppable nature and emotional impact.

What’s a metaphor for Year 6?

For Year 6 students (around 10 to 11 years old), metaphors are a fun way to make language more imaginative. At this stage, metaphors come to life when they’re connected to things students experience every day.

For example, saying “The classroom was a beehive” paints a picture of a classroom buzzing with activity, just like a busy beehive. Or, “The man was a mountain” is a fun way to level-up a towering character description.

Encouraging Year 6 students to create their own metaphors helps them see language as a creative tool. It’s a great way to boost their imagination and get them thinking outside the box, which is perfect for grammar or private school 11+ exams (particularly verbal reasoning) and SATs preparation!

What’s a metaphor for Year 7?

For Year 7 students (11 to 12 years old), metaphors are a great way to enhance their writing and dive deeper into literature. At this point in the national curriculum, they’ll start tackling more complex texts, like Shakespeare or Charles Dickens, and metaphors bring those stories to life. Take the metaphor “Juliet is the sun”—it doesn’t just describe a person, it creates a sense of power, awe and beauty.

Getting Year 7 students to spot and create metaphors helps them connect with texts on an emotional level. It also gives them a great way to express abstract ideas through rich, vivid imagery.

What’s a metaphor in GCSE?

At GCSE, metaphors aren’t just a literary device—they’re a tool for analysing and understanding texts. Students learn to explore how metaphors shape the meaning, mood and themes of a text. For example, when Shakespeare says, “All the world’s a stage,” he’s not just talking about theatre; he’s using the metaphor to reflect on how life is full of different roles and stages.

For GCSE students, understanding metaphors is all about:

Looking at the context and how the metaphor fits into the text.
Identifying what’s compared and why.
Discussing how the comparison affects the mood or themes of the piece.

This deeper approach helps students not only understand the text but develop their creative writing skills, learning to uncover hidden meanings and appreciate the power of language.

What’s a simile vs. metaphor?

While both similes and metaphors are used to draw comparisons, there is a key difference between them:

Simile: A simile makes an explicit comparison using words like “than, “like” or “as.” Example: “He is as brave as a lion.” Similes clearly signal that a comparison is being made, making the connection explicit and easy to understand.
Metaphor: A metaphor makes an implicit comparison by stating that one thing is another. Example: “He is a lion on the battlefield.” Metaphors merge the two ideas, helping the reader or listener explore the relationship between the elements more deeply.

Understanding the distinction between these two devices helps recognise the subtle ways language conveys meanings. Similes are often straightforward and direct, while metaphors tend to be more layered, inviting further interpretation and analysis.

What are 20 metaphors?

Here are 20 metaphors, each offering a unique way to view the world. All these metaphors transform simple concepts into rich, evocative images that can resonate on both emotional and intellectual levels.

Can you add to the list, improve the vocabulary, or transform these phrases into extended metaphors—continuing the description?

1. The moon is a lantern in the sky. (Conveys the idea of lighting up the darkness.)
2. His heart is a locked door. (Implying that he’s closed off or difficult to understand.)
3. The wind is a whisper. (Suggests the wind moves quietly and softly, like a secret being shared.)
4. The forest is a cathedral. (Compares the forest to a peaceful place of reverence and awe)
5. The road is a ribbon of dust. (Highlights the winding and dusty nature of a rural road.)
6. His thoughts are a tangled web. (Indicates confusion in thinking, like a broken spider’s web.)
7. The city is a heartbeat. (Suggests the city is alive, with a rhythm pulsing through its streets.)
8. Her eyes are windows to the soul. (Indicates that eyes reveal emotions and inner thoughts.)
9. His mind is a computer. (Conveys quick thinking and the ability to process information efficiently.)
10. The river is a snake. (Describes a river’s winding, sinuous path.)
11. The garden is a jungle. (Highlights the wild, and untamed nature of a domestic garden.)
12. Her hair is a waterfall. (Conveys the flowing, cascading quality of her hair.)
13. The argument was a battlefield. (Suggests that the argument was intense and combative.)
14. His temper is a volcano. (Indicates that his anger builds up and can erupt suddenly.)
15. The snow was a white blanket. (Describes snow covering the ground evenly and softly.)
16. The stars are diamonds in the sky. (Conveys the sparkling and precious nature of the stars.)
17. The river is a silver chain. (Highlights the shimmering appearance of the river.)
18. The night was a velvet curtain. (Conveys the smooth and enveloping quality of the night.)
19. The storm was a wild beast. (Describes the unpredictable and fierce nature of the storm.)
20. Her laughter is a refreshing breeze. (Implies that her laughter has a light, invigorating quality.)

Looking for expert English support for your child?

By exploring metaphors and other language devices, your child will open up a world of creative expression and understanding—a journey that can transform how they use language.

At Achieve Learning, we’re here to support your child’s academic journey. Whether you’re preparing for the 11 Plus, tackling SATs, GCSE English or looking for additional reading support, our expert tutors can help. Our approach is rooted in clear explanations and practical examples, building your child’s confidence and skills. Get in touch today to find out more.

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Manchester Grammar Schools: Your Complete 11+ Guide

If you’re thinking about grammar schools in Manchester, there’s a lot to research—figuring out where the best schools are, how the 11 Plus works and what the chances of getting in look like.

It can all feel a bit overwhelming. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about Manchester grammar schools, from an overview of each school to the ins and outs of the 11+ process, key dates and pass marks.

We’ll also cover Manchester Grammar School itself. Confusingly, it’s not actually a grammar school. But it is one of the best private schools in the region. To help your decision-making, we’ll discuss rankings, admissions, fees and more.

Does Manchester have grammar schools?

Yes, Manchester has many highly regarded grammar schools, concentrated in the Trafford area. These schools (including Altrincham Boys’ and Girls’ Grammars, Sale, Stretford and Urmston Grammars, as well as the Catholic St Ambrose and Loreto Grammars), are known for exceptional academic performance. As a result, securing a place is competitive.

Like all grammar schools, Manchester grammars operate on an academically selective basis. This means students must pass the 11 Plus exam (taken in Year 6, the final year of primary school) to be considered for a place.

So, what are your options?

How many grammar schools are in Greater Manchester?

In total, there are seven grammar schools in Greater Manchester. This includes Altrincham Grammar School for Boys, Altrincham Grammar School for Girls, Sale Grammar, Stretford Grammar and Urmston Grammar, all part of the Trafford Grammar School Consortium. There’s also St Ambrose College and Loreto Grammar School, two leading faith-based grammar schools.

Here’s an overview of each school.

1. Altrincham Grammar School for Boys

Location: Marlborough Road, Bowdon, Altrincham, Cheshire, WA14 2RS
Size: Around 1,350 pupils
Pupils: Boys

Founded in 1912, Altrincham Grammar School for Boys has built a reputation as one of the best grammar schools in the UK. With impressive exam results, the school focuses heavily on STEM subjects.

Beyond academics, AGSB offers a well-rounded experience with strong sporting traditions—its rugby and cricket teams are particularly well-regarded. The school’s ethos is built around discipline, independence and a strong sense of community, preparing students for success at leading universities and beyond.

2. Altrincham Grammar School for Girls

Location: Cavendish Road, Bowdon, Altrincham, Cheshire, WA14 2NL
Size: Around 1,300 pupils
Pupils: Girls

Established in 1910, Altrincham Grammar School for Girls is one of the most prestigious all-girls grammar schools in the UK. Like its boys counterpart, the school has a reputation for academic excellence.

Despite this, AGGS encourages a balance between academic rigour and personal development. The school places strong emphasis on leadership and empowering young women, with a variety of extracurricular clubs, debating societies and charity initiatives promoting “bright futures” for all.

3. Sale Grammar School

Location: Marsland Road, Sale, Cheshire, M33 3NH
Size: Around 1,300 pupils
Pupils: Co-Ed

Sale Grammar School is a high-achieving mixed grammar school with a modern outlook. Since gaining Academy Trust grammar school status in 2011, it established itself as a leader in creative subjects such as art and design, as well as the sciences. The school’s state-of-the-art facilities include cutting-edge science labs, a dedicated music department and a thriving drama program.

Sale Grammar takes pride in fostering independent thinkers and offers a broad curriculum that challenges students while nurturing creativity and critical thinking.

4. Stretford Grammar School

Location: Granby Road, Stretford, Manchester, M32 8JB
Size: Around 900 pupils
Pupils: Co-Ed

With roots dating back to 1928, Stretford Grammar School is known for its inclusive, community-driven ethos. As one of the smaller grammar schools in Greater Manchester, it provides a close-knit, supportive environment where students thrive.

The school emphasises well-rounded development through varied extracurriculars alongside academics. At its heart is the belief that we should always give our best efforts: “Aspirat primo fortuna labori”. This principle is embedded in its core values of Aspiration, Endeavour and Respect.

5. Urmston Grammar School

Location: Newton Road, Urmston, Manchester, M41 5UG
Size: Around 1,100 pupils
Pupils: Co-Ed

Founded in 1929, Urmston Grammar School combines tradition with modern education. It’s a dynamic learning environment that prepares students for both university and fulfilling careers. Nationally recognised as a Science and Language College, the school fosters a culture of high achievement while encouraging independence, curiosity and engagement with wider society.

Alongside this holistic approach, academic results remain exceptional— in 2024, 73% of GCSE grades were 9-7, with 48% at 9 or 8. At A Level, 67% of grades were A*-B, with 39% at A*/A.

6. St Ambrose College

Location: Hale Road, Hale Barns, Altrincham, Cheshire, WA15 0HE
Size: Around 1,000 pupils
Pupils: Boys (Catholic)

St Ambrose College is a Catholic boys’ grammar with a strong moral and academic foundation. Established in 1946 by Joseph Robertson, the school is part of the Christian Brothers network and has a long tradition of providing a faith-based education alongside rigorous academics.

St Ambrose also excels in sports—particularly rugby, where its teams have gained national recognition. The school places a strong emphasis on service, leadership and community engagement, encouraging students to develop both academically and spiritually.

7. Loreto Grammar School

Location: Dunham Road, Altrincham, Cheshire, WA14 4AH
Size: Around 1,000 pupils
Pupils: Girls (Catholic)

Founded in 1909, Loreto Grammar School is a highly respected Catholic girls’ school. Part of the international Loreto network, the school instils values of justice, freedom and sincerity.

Loreto Grammar is particularly strong in the humanities and creative arts. They also encourage students to engage in charity work and social justice initiatives, fostering a sense of responsibility and global awareness alongside excellent academics.

What’s the format of the Manchester 11 Plus exam?

If your child is sitting the 11 Plus in Greater Manchester, most schools use GL Assessment (a leading national test provider). All five schools in the Trafford Grammar School Consortium (Altrincham Boys’ and Girls’ Grammar Schools, Sale, Stretford and Urmston Grammar School) exclusively use GL Assessment.

For Trafford Grammar School Consortium schools, the 11+ exam consists of two papers, each lasting about an hour. Within these papers, you’ll find:

Verbal reasoning: testing vocabulary, word relationships, spelling, reading and comprehension. Your child might be asked to identify synonyms, complete sentences or interpret short passages.
Non-verbal reasoning: problem-solving through patterns and sequences of shapes, testing your child’s ability to spot relationships and think logically.
Maths: topics covered up to Year 6, such as number work, measurement, geometry and statistics. Some questions require problem-solving rather than straightforward calculations.

To help students prepare, GL Assessment provides free familiarisation materials and sample papers for purchase. These can be a useful way to get used to the question styles and timings before the real exam.

For students applying to Loreto Grammar School or St Ambrose College, the exam format is slightly different:

Loreto Grammar School: GL Assessment papers in English and Verbal Reasoning, along with a school-set Maths paper. The school provides familiarisation materials on its website.
St Ambrose College: three multiple-choice papers: Verbal Reasoning (50 minutes, GL Assessment), Maths (35 minutes, school-set), and English (35 minutes, school-set). Unlike other schools, no past papers or sample papers are available.

While preparing for the 11 Plus can feel daunting, understanding the format makes a big difference. Encouraging regular practice, working through sample questions and helping your child feel confident will all go a long way in ensuring they’re as ready as possible.

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

The 11 Plus doesn’t have a simple pass mark like a school test. Instead, scores are age-standardised, which means they’re adjusted based on the child’s age in years and months. This ensures younger students aren’t disadvantaged compared to older peers.

Each grammar school usually sets a qualifying score—the minimum mark a student needs to be considered for a place. For example, Altrincham Grammar School for Boys has a qualifying score of 334 across the three exam papers. But hitting that score doesn’t guarantee admission. Places are awarded based on rank order, meaning the highest-scoring students get in first. Other factors, like catchment area or whether a sibling already attends, also play a role.

As a rough guide, aiming for around 80% or higher in the 11 Plus is a good target. But as each school has its own admissions criteria, it’s worth checking directly with each school.

What are the deadlines for the Manchester 11 Plus?

The 11 Plus is a long process, so keeping track of deadlines is essential. While specific dates for the 2025 exams (for 2026 entry) haven’t been released yet, here’s a general timeline based on previous years:

April – June: Registration opens. You must apply for the 11 Plus exam during this period.
May – July: Schools hold open days and evenings. Visiting as many as possible can help you get a feel for each school.
Early September: Final exam details are sent to all candidates.
Mid-September: Exam day! The 11 Plus test takes place.
Early to mid-October: Results are released.
End of October: Deadline to submit the Common Application Form (CAF) to your Local Authority.
1 March: School allocation day—offers are sent out.

What’s the most prestigious school in Manchester?

For the most well-known and prestigious school in the city, The Manchester Grammar School (MGS) leads the pack. It’s an independent secondary school for boys aged 11-18. The school boasts a long history (dating back to the sixteenth century), a stellar reputation for pastoral care, as well as outstanding exam results. But there’s a catch—it’s not a state grammar school.

Here’s what you need to know.

Is Manchester Grammar School free?

No, Manchester Grammar School isn’t free. It’s an independent, fee-paying school. It was originally founded as a free grammar school in 1515, but in 1976, left the state system and became independent. It still selects students based on academic ability, but families pay tuition fees.

Current fees are around £15,930 per year. The school also offers a bursary scheme to support students from lower-income families.

What rank is Manchester Grammar School?

Manchester Grammar School consistently ranks among the top private schools in the UK. It produces some of the best GCSE and A Level results in the country, with a high percentage of students going on to study at top universities. In fact, the school secured a record 32 Oxbridge offers for 2025.

For GCSE results, Manchester Grammar School ranks 60th in the country (according to the Top Schools Guide). 84.27% of GCSE entries secured 9s or 8s (equivalent to A or A* under the old GCSE grading system). At A Level, the school performs even better, ranking 58th in the UK. 64.9% of A Level entries achieved either A or A* grades.

Is it difficult to get into Manchester Grammar School?

Gaining a place at Manchester Grammar School is challenging. But the admissions process is designed to look beyond exam results, giving every boy a chance to show their potential.

The process starts with an Assessment Day, where boys experience a maths lesson, a topic-based lesson, group activities and a creative writing task. These aren’t designed to test what they’ve already learned but to see how they think and engage with new ideas. There’s no way to prepare, and that’s intentional. It ensures applicants are on a level playing field.

In January, boys sit the Entrance Exam, which includes two English papers and two maths papers. After that, they take part in an activity of their choice, such as sport, music or science. Past papers are available from the MGS website.

Decisions aren’t based on test scores alone, making Manchester Grammar School admissions uniquely challenging. The school considers how each boy performed during Assessment Day, along with a reference from their current school, to build a full picture of their abilities and potential.

What’s the pass mark for Manchester Grammar School?

Unlike the Trafford 11 Plus, Manchester Grammar School doesn’t share a fixed pass mark for their entrance exam. Instead, offers are made based on a combination of factors:

Performance in the entrance exam (English and Maths papers): Although there isn’t a set pass mark, aiming for a score of 80% in practice papers is wise.
Assessment day results: including group activities and observed lessons.
School references: providing insights into a student’s attitude and work ethic.

Thinking about Manchester grammar schools for your child?

Choosing the right grammar school in Manchester is a big decision. The 11 Plus can be challenging, but with the right preparation, your child has every chance of success. Whether you’re considering one of Manchester’s top state grammar schools or the private Manchester Grammar School, understanding the process will help you make the best choice.

At Achieve Learning, we offer expert support to guide you through every step. From personalised 11 Plus tuition to realistic mock exams and academic consultancy to keep preparations on track, we’re here to help. Let’s work together to help your child reach their full potential.

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11 Plus Creative Writing: Examples and Advice

Creative writing is an important part of 11+ exams, both for grammar schools and private schools.

But for many children, creative writing can feel daunting. Some worry about coming up with ideas, while others struggle with structuring their work or correct spelling and grammar. The good news? With the right approach and plenty of practice, any child can improve their creative writing skills.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about 11+ creative writing, from essential techniques and practice tips to 11+ creative writing prompts and example responses.

11 Plus success: how to do creative writing for the 11+

First things first. Let’s talk about what makes good 11+ creative writing.

One of the biggest misconceptions about 11+ creative writing is that longer stories automatically get better marks. That’s not true! Examiners are looking for well-structured, interesting writing that shows ambitious vocabulary, clear yet varied sentences, and strong spelling and grammar (SPaG). A short, polished piece will always score better than a long, unfocused one.

Before putting pen to paper, encourage your child to pause and think about what they want to write. A clear plan will help them stay on track and avoid rambling. They should consider:

Who’s the main character?
Where does the story take place?
What problem or event will drive the story?
How will it end?

Once they’ve done this, a good 11+ creative writing structure could be:

Paragraph 1: Describe the setting in detail. What can the character see and feel? Really zoom-in on the details and create a vivid atmosphere.
Paragraph 2: Introduce dialogue with a contrasting character. Describe them and their actions. This will secure points for varied structure as well as compelling character descriptions.
Paragraph 3: A key event happens that changes the tone and mood of the story. For instance, a storm rolls in, or tension builds as the characters try to escape a situation.
Paragraph 4: Resolve the central problem or event, and conclude by linking-back to something mentioned at the start so the story feels “complete”.

That said, don’t worry if your child struggles sticking to an “exact” structure like the one above. As long as they set the scene, include one main event and conclude the story, then they’re doing great. 11+ writing is all about creativity and imagination after all. So focus on:

Quality over quantity: It’s better to write a shorter, well-crafted piece than a long, unfocused one.
Strong openings: First impressions matter! A gripping opening draws the reader in instantly.
Ambitious vocabulary: Using a variety of expressive words enhances writing quality.
Grammar and spelling: Careless mistakes cost marks, so it’s worth double-checking work.
Sentence variety: A mix of long and short, active and passive sentences (including features like subordinate clauses and fronted adverbials) makes writing engaging.

By focusing on these elements, your child will create compelling, well-structured stories that impress examiners and boost their 11+ score.

Exam preparation: how to practice creative writing for the 11+

Like any skill, creative writing improves with practice. But simply writing story after story isn’t the best approach. Instead, targeted exercises build essential skills. Think about tasks like marking model answers, playing games like the “5-minute story” and exposing your child to as much reading as possible.

Some great practice exercises for 11+ creative writing include:

Use 11+ creative writing model answers: Reading high-quality examples helps children see what makes a strong response and pick up useful techniques. Start with just a paragraph. Could they mark the work themselves, or even carry on the story in their own way?
Work through past papers: Practicing real exam questions (through past papers or mock tests) helps children get used to different types of prompts and time constraints. Just be careful not to overload them with too many practice exams.
Repeat short bursts of writing: Short, daily writing exercises can improve fluency and confidence. So have fun with speed-writing a “5-minute story”. Who can write the most exciting description of their breakfast cereal box? What about the drive home from school?
Read widely: Exposure to different writing styles helps children expand their vocabulary and learn how to structure their own work. It’s so important to read a variety of texts, including classic and modern fiction as well as non-fiction like newspapers, blogs and magazines.
Fun writing exercises: Can you turn creative writing into a game? For instance:
- Describe an object without naming it: Everyone takes a turn. Bonus points for the most laughs. As well as family bonding, this develops strong descriptive skills.
- Rewrite scenes from different perspectives: Pick a scene from your child’s favourite books or movies. This encourages them to think about contrasting character viewpoints.
- Use five random words in a story: The more ambitious vocabulary the better! This builds creativity and problem-solving skills. Mix it up and have fun? Could another challenge involve a description without using connectives (for example)?
Break stories apart: by this, we mean focusing on specific aspects of writing. For instance, one week, work on crafting engaging openings. Another, think about vocabulary or realistic dialogue. Then look at captivating conclusions. By breaking writing practice into smaller, focused exercises, children can make steady progress without feeling overwhelmed.

What are some good creative writing topics?

Coming up with ideas can be one of the biggest challenges in 11+ creative writing. To help, here are 30 varied exam-style prompts to spark your child’s imagination.

These prompts include classic fiction story starters (for instance, “A Mysterious Door”) as well as prompts more closely rooted in everyday life (for instance, “Your First Day at a New School”). We’ve also included prompts that combine these two approaches (for instance, “A World Without Electricity”). Here, your child can either stick to the real-world or let their imagination run riot. It’s up to them!

Ten 11+ creative writing fiction prompts

The Storm
A Mysterious Door
Lost in the Woods
The Unexpected Visitor
A Journey Through Time
The Day Everything Changed
The Secret Passage
A Talking Animal
A Magical Discovery
A Mistake That Led to an Adventure

Ten 11+ creative writing “everyday” prompts

A Time You Felt Surprised
Your First Day at a New School
The Best Day of Your Life
A Person Who Inspires You
An Argument You Had and What You Learned
A Place That Feels Like Home
A Time You Overcame a Fear
The Importance of Kindness
How Technology Affects Our Lives
A Letter to Your Future Self

Ten 11+ creative writing mixed prompts

Describe a Winter’s Night
Write a Story About a Lost Object
Imagine You Could Fly for a Day
A World Without Electricity
Describe the Most Beautiful Place You Have Ever Seen
The Most Unusual Animal You’ve Ever Met
If You Had a Superpower for One Day
A Secret Hidden Under Your Garden
The View from a Hot Air Balloon
A Message in a Bottle

11 Plus creative writing examples: sample paragraph

If you’ve read the prompts above and felt stuck knowing where to start, don’t worry. Below are five example paragraphs based on the 11+ prompts we’ve just covered. These will give you (and your child) an idea of how to develop strong openings, atmospheric settings, compelling characters and intriguing conclusions.

1. The Storm (opening paragraph)

The sky darkened in an instant, the once golden afternoon swallowed by thick, swirling clouds. A low rumble of thunder growled in the distance, creeping closer with every heartbeat. Then, the first raindrop fell—a cold pinprick against my cheek. Within seconds, the heavens opened, unleashing a torrential downpour that turned the dusty road into a river of mud. The wind howled through the trees, bending their branches until they groaned in protest. I wrapped my arms around myself, shivering as a flash of lightning split the sky, illuminating the looming silhouette of an abandoned house at the edge of the fields. A surge of fear twisted in my stomach. I needed shelter.

2. A Mysterious Door (middle section)

My fingers trembled as I traced the edges of the ancient door, its wood worn smooth by time. It shouldn’t have been there—hidden behind the heavy velvet curtains in the library—but now that I had found it, I couldn’t look away. A strange symbol had been carved into the centre, half-hidden beneath layers of dust. My pulse quickened. With one deep breath, I pressed my palm against it. At first, nothing happened. Then, with a low creak, the door began to shift, revealing a sliver of darkness beyond. A cold gust of air whispered through the gap, carrying the scent of something old, something forgotten. Every sensible thought screamed at me to turn back—but my feet had already crossed the threshold.

3. A Place That Feels Like Home (setting description)

The cottage sat nestled between rolling green hills, its ivy-clad walls bathed in the golden glow of the late afternoon sun. Smoke curled lazily from the chimney, carrying the familiar scent of burning wood and warm bread. A narrow stone path wound its way to the front door, flanked by clusters of wildflowers that swayed gently in the breeze. The moment I stepped onto the porch, the creak of the old wooden floorboards sent a rush of comfort through me. Inside, the air was thick with the scent of lavender and cinnamon, wrapping around me like a well-worn blanket. I belonged here. This was more than a house—it was a feeling, a memory, a place where the world outside could wait.

4. The Unexpected Visitor (character description)

She stood at the doorstep, drenched from head to toe, her coat clinging to her like a second skin. Her dark hair was matted against her forehead, dripping water onto the cracked stone step beneath her feet. But it was her eyes that held me captive—an intense, piercing green, flickering with something between fear and determination. She clutched a battered leather suitcase to her chest as if letting go would send her spiralling into nothingness. “Please,” she whispered, her voice hoarse and barely audible over the roaring wind. “I need your help.” There was something about the way she said it, something desperate, something final. I hesitated for only a moment before stepping aside.

5. A Journey Through Time (conclusion)

The world around me dissolved into a blur of swirling colours, a sensation like falling and floating all at once. My breath caught in my throat as the air thickened, pressing against my skin like an invisible tide. Then—silence. My feet touched solid ground. Slowly, I opened my eyes, my heart hammering in my chest. The towering skyscrapers had vanished. In their place stood cobbled streets, gas-lit lanterns flickering against the inky sky. The air smelled of soot and horse-drawn carriages clattered past, their drivers shouting in voices thick with an accent I barely recognised. I had done it. I had stepped out of my world and into another. But as the distant chime of a clock tower rang out, one thought took hold—how would I ever get back?

Helping your child succeed in 11+ creative writing

Creative writing for the 11+ doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right guidance and plenty of practice, children can develop the skills they need to excel. If you’re looking for expert support, Achieve Learning offers tailored 1-1 tuition, 11+ mock exams, academic consultancy and reading support. Get in touch today to help your child reach their full potential.

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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:

“Close the door.”
“Pay attention.”
“Don’t touch that.”
“Stand still.”
“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:

“Stop making that noise.”
“Please help me carry these bags.”
“Take a break if you’re feeling tired.”
“Visit the new café in town!”
“Preheat the oven to 180 degrees.”
“Close the door behind you.”
“Kindly send me the report by noon.”
“Walk instead of driving—it’s healthier.”
“Try reading before bed to relax.”
“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:

They always appear in their base form (e.g., “sit” instead of “sitting”).
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:

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.”
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.”
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.”
Can be negative: Use “don’t” to turn an imperative into a negative command. For example, “Don’t run in the hallways.”
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.

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

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:

- Torquay Girls’ Grammar School: 289 preferences for 160 places
- Torquay Boys’ Grammar School: 306 preferences for 168 places
- Churston Ferrers: 401 preferences for 150 places
- Colyton Grammar: 155 preferences for 155 places

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.

Devon Grammar Schools: Your Complete List and 11+ Guide Read More »

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”?

Angry
Cheerful
Sad
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.

Always
Easily
Barely
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.

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

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

“The cake was baked by the chef.” – The cake is the focus, and the action (baking) is being done to it.
“The ball was thrown by the goalkeeper.” – The ball is receiving the action of being thrown.
“The homework was completed by the student.” – The homework is the focus, not the person who completed it.
“The house was painted by the decorators.” – The house is highlighted, and the action (painting) is done to it.
“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

“The chef baked the cake.” – The chef is actively doing the action of baking.
“The goalkeeper threw the ball.” – The goalkeeper is the subject performing the action.
“The student completed the homework.” – The student is taking action in the sentence.
“The decorators painted the house.” – The decorators are actively doing the painting.
“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.

King David High School is a Jewish-based school that not only values academic excellence but also offers places for students with musical aptitude.
St Hilda’s CofE High School and St Margaret’s CofE High School, both Church of England schools, also offer faith-based admissions alongside their commitment to high academic standards.

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:

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.

Grammar Schools in Peterborough: Everything You Need to Know Read More »

Author name: Firoz Jetha

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