The Knowledge
Understanding the basics is half the battle. Exam boards, Age Standardisation, and scoring myths.
Read the GuidesFree guidance, resources, and strategy to help your child navigate Grammar School entry without the stress.
Start Your JourneyUnderstanding the basics is half the battle. Exam boards, Age Standardisation, and scoring myths.
Read the GuidesAccess our curated list of free past papers, recommended book lists, and vocabulary builders.
Open VaultStrategies for managing exam stress, keeping motivation high, and maintaining balance.
Find BalanceFind specific admissions criteria for Grammar Schools.
Know your enemy. Understanding the system is the first step to beating it.
| Provider | Key Traits | Subjects | Region |
|---|---|---|---|
| GL Assessment | Standardised, Predictable, Question Bank | Maths, English, VR, NVR (Split Papers) | Kent, Bucks, Warwickshire, Lincs |
| CEM | Speed-based, "Tutor-proof", Vocabulary focus | Mixed Papers (Sections timed individually) | Bexley, Gloucestershire, Birmingham |
| CSSE | Traditional, Written English heavy | Maths & English (Creative Writing) | Essex (Consortium) |
A score adjusted for age. Average is 100. Grammar school entry is usually 110-121+. Essential for summer-born equity.
The actual number of marks (e.g., 45/60). Rarely used for final ranking, but useful for practice monitoring.
Published Admission Number. The absolute limit of places a school offers (e.g., 150 boys).
The geographic priority zone. Distance is usually measured in a straight line from the school gate to your home.
High-quality resources. Zero cost.
Official familiarisation materials directly from the exam provider.
Visit SiteExcellent for creative writing and difficult comprehension.
Visit SiteOur exclusive top 500 words categorized by belt.
Sanity for Parents. Focus for Kids.
Focus on reading habits and vocabulary games. No pressure testing yet.
First exposure to exam conditions. Expect low scores (40-50%) - this is normal!
The big moment. Keep routines normal. Light revision only.
Results are released. Complete your Common Application Form by Oct 31st.
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