The London Borough of Sutton operates a selective education system, with several grammar schools highly sought after. These schools use the 11+ examination to assess prospective pupils for entry into Year 7.
Familiarity with the examination format, along with consistent and structured preparation, is key for students aiming to secure a place at these grammar schools. This guide provides an overview of the Sutton 11+ process, including specific insights for Wilson's School, Wallington County Grammar, and Wallington High School for Girls, which form part of the Sutton Grammar Schools consortium.
The Sutton 11+ process for schools like Wilson's, Wallington County Grammar, and Wallington High School for Girls typically involves two stages. The first stage is the Selective Eligibility Test (SET). This initial test is designed to identify candidates who meet a baseline academic standard, and it usually consists of multiple-choice questions in English and Mathematics.
Candidates who perform well in the SET are then invited to sit a second stage examination. The format of this second stage can vary slightly between schools. It often includes a more in-depth assessment of English comprehension, extended writing, and more challenging mathematics questions. Some schools may also include Verbal Reasoning or Non-Verbal Reasoning components. It is crucial to check the specific requirements and exam formats for each school you are applying to, as these can be updated annually.
For the English component of the 11+, consistent reading is fundamental. Encourage your child to read a wide range of texts, including fiction and non-fiction, to develop vocabulary, comprehension skills, and an understanding of different writing styles. Practice with comprehension questions that require inferring meaning, identifying literary devices, and summarising passages.
Mathematics preparation should cover the entire Key Stage 2 curriculum, including topics that may not yet have been taught in school by the time of the exam. Focus on:
Regular practice with past papers or practice questions tailored to the 11+ style can help familiarise your child with the types of questions they will encounter and improve their time management.
While not universally tested in the Sutton 11+ second stage, Verbal Reasoning (VR) and Non-Verbal Reasoning (NVR) are often part of other 11+ exams and can be beneficial for developing general cognitive skills. If a school specifies VR or NVR, dedicated practice is essential due to the unique nature of these question types.
Verbal Reasoning assesses a child's ability to understand and reason with words, often involving codes, sequences, and logic puzzles. Non-Verbal Reasoning assesses problem-solving using shapes, patterns, and diagrams, requiring spatial awareness and logical deduction without words. Both types of reasoning benefit from consistent exposure and systematic practice to understand the underlying rules and patterns.
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Start free →The SET is the first stage of the 11+ entrance examination for most Sutton grammar schools. It assesses English and Mathematics, typically in a multiple-choice format, to shortlist candidates for further assessment.
Generally, you register for the Sutton 11+ once through a common application portal for the consortium schools. However, it is essential to check the specific application process for each school you are interested in, as processes can change.
Registration for the Sutton 11+ usually opens in May or June for examinations taking place in September of the same year. The deadline is typically in July or August. Always confirm exact dates on the grammar schools' official websites or the local authority's admissions pages.
Some grammar schools or the Sutton consortium may provide specimen papers or familiarisation materials on their websites. Independent publishers also offer practice papers designed to mimic the 11+ style. Using these can help children become accustomed to the format and timing of the exams.