Gresham’s School – 11+ Practice Papers with Video Explanations
Gresham’s School is a well-established independent co-educational day and boarding school in Holt, Norfolk, for pupils aged 2 to 18. Known for its innovative education, nurturing environment, and strong academic and creative performance, Gresham’s blends rich tradition with a forward-looking ethos. It is especially noted as the former school of composer Sir Benjamin Britten and scientist Sir James Dyson, whose name now graces the school’s prestigious Dyson STEAM Building.
🏛️ History of the School
- Founded: 1555 by Sir John Gresham, former Lord Mayor of London
- Originally a boys’ grammar school, established to educate local scholars in Holt, Norfolk
- Over time, it evolved into a leading public school, admitting boarders and day pupils from across the UK and abroad
- Became fully co-educational in 2008, with girls now comprising around half of the student body
- Today, Gresham’s sits within a 200-acre rural campus, with Prep and Pre-Prep schools on site, creating a seamless all-through education
👩🎓👨🎓 Pupil Numbers
- Total enrolment: Around 800 pupils
- Pre-Prep and Prep (Ages 2–13): ~350
- Senior School (Ages 13–18): ~450
- Boarding and Day options available
- Roughly 50–60% of Senior School pupils are boarders
- Pupils come from across the UK and internationally (approx. 15% overseas)
- Entry points at 13+ and 16+, as well as earlier via the Prep School
🎓 Academic Reputation
Gresham’s offers both A-Levels and the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) in Sixth Form, giving students flexibility and breadth in their learning. It’s academically strong while maintaining a holistic and nurturing approach, avoiding a high-pressure environment.
📈 Academic Results:
- A-Level:
- ~75% of grades at A–B*
- IB Diploma:
- Average score ~34–36 points (above global average)
- Subjects with particular strength: Sciences, Art, Drama, Design Engineering, English Literature, and Languages
🎓 University Destinations:
- Many pupils go on to top UK universities including:
- Russell Group universities (e.g. UCL, Bristol, Durham, Leeds, Edinburgh)
- Oxbridge offers most years
- Specialist arts colleges, music conservatoires, and international universities, including in the US and Europe
- Strong support for creative careers, Medicine, Law, and Engineering
💰 Scholarships & Bursaries
- Scholarships available in:
- Academic subjects, Art, Music, Drama, Sport, and All-Rounder
- Means-tested bursaries offered to support talented students from a variety of backgrounds
- The school has an inclusive ethos and is committed to widening access
🏆 Awards & Recognition
- ISI Inspection:
- Rated “Excellent” in all areas
- Home of the Dyson Building, a £19m STEAM centre opened in 2021, funded by alumnus Sir James Dyson, supporting:
- Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics
- Recognised for:
- Strong integration of STEAM and creativity
- Balanced academic and pastoral support
- Innovative design and engineering curriculum
🏫 Gresham’s School – Contact Information
School Name: Gresham’s School
Type: Independent Co-educational Day and Boarding School (Ages 2–18)
📍 Address:
Gresham’s School
Cromer Road
Holt
Norfolk
NR25 6EA
United Kingdom
☎️ Telephone:
+44 (0)1263 714500
📧 Email:
admissions@greshams.com (for admissions)
info@greshams.com (general enquiries)
🌐 Website:
📱 Social Media:
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Instagram: @greshams_school
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Twitter/X: @GreshamsSchool
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Facebook: Gresham’s School
📝 Exam Board: School’s own test
You can view the school’s location on the map below:
How to Use ExamTutor 11 Plus Practice Papers with Video Explanations to Achieve High Scores for Gresham’s School, in the 11+ Entrance Exam
Gresham’s School uses its own 11+ entrance test for admission to Year 7. To secure a place, students must perform well in the exam, which assesses English, Mathematics, and Reasoning skills.
Why Use ExamTutor 11 Plus Practice Papers with Video Explanations?
✔ Designed for Independent School Entrance Exams – Covers question types that may appear in the Gresham’s School entrance test.
✔ Video Explanations for Every Question – Helps students understand mistakes and improve problem-solving skills.
✔ Identifies Strengths & Weaknesses – Tailored practice to improve weaker areas.
✔ Boosts Confidence & Exam Performance – Familiarisation with exam-style questions reduces anxiety.
How to Use ExamTutor for Gresham’s School 11+ Exam Preparation
1. Understand the Exam Format
📌 The Merchant Taylors’ School (MTS) Northwood 11+ entrance test typically includes:
- English – Reading comprehension, creative writing, and grammar.
- Mathematics – Problem-solving, arithmetic, and numerical reasoning.
- Reasoning (Verbal & Non-Verbal) – Logical thinking, pattern recognition, and spatial awareness.
✔ Start by introducing your child to each section and understanding what is tested.
2. Create a Structured Study Plan
✔ Allocate dedicated study time for each subject every week.
✔ Use ExamTutor practice papers to track progress.
✔ Practice under timed conditions to improve speed and accuracy.
3. Boost Confidence with Video Explanations
Some 11+ question types can be challenging for students. Our expert-led video explanations:
🎥 Break down complex questions step by step
🎥 Teach proven problem-solving techniques
🎥 Show shortcuts and strategies to save time in the exam
🎥 Help students reinforce learning and build confidence
How to Use Video Explanations Effectively:
✅ Review incorrect answers with video solutions – Identify and correct mistakes early.
✅ Take notes on key strategies – Record important problem-solving techniques for future reference.
✅ Rewatch explanations for difficult topics – Reinforce learning by revisiting challenging areas.
4. Develop Exam Strategies & Time Management
✔ Teach skimming and scanning techniques for comprehension questions.
✔ Use mental maths tricks to speed up calculations.
✔ Practice logical reasoning techniques to improve accuracy in reasoning questions.
5. Take Practice Exams & Review Performance
✔ Schedule practice exams close to the real test date.
✔ Analyse results and focus on weak areas.
✔ Use ExamTutor’s tutor-led video explanations for targeted revision.
6. Boost Confidence & Reduce Exam Stress
✔ Maintain a positive and encouraging learning environment.
✔ Encourage regular breaks and revision balance.
✔ Use mindfulness techniques to stay calm before the exam.
Final Tips for Success
✔ Start preparation early – At least 6-12 months before the exam.
✔ Use ExamTutor’s practice tests regularly – Build confidence with real exam-style questions.
✔ Practice writing skills – Creative writing is often a key component in independent school exams.
✔ Stay consistent – Small daily practice sessions are more effective than last-minute cramming.
✔ Attend an open day or taster session at Gresham’s School – Familiarity with the school environment can boost confidence.
By using ExamTutor 11 Plus Practice Papers with Video Explanations, your child will gain strong exam skills, improve accuracy, and build confidence—increasing their chances of success in the Gresham’s School 11+ Entrance Exam.
📌 Start practicing today to help your child achieve a top score and secure a place at Gresham’s School! 🚀
Gresham’s School – Year 7 Admissions Criteria & How to Apply
Independent Co-educational Day and Boarding School | Holt, Norfolk | Ages 2–18
Gresham’s School is a prestigious independent co-educational day and boarding school in Holt, North Norfolk, offering education from nursery through to Sixth Form. Founded in 1555, the school is known for its academic excellence, exceptional pastoral care, and strong provision in sport, music, drama, and STEM. It is also one of the few UK schools to offer the IB Diploma Programme as well as A Levels.
Year 7 entry takes place in the Prep School, with pupils typically progressing to the Senior School in Year 9.
✅ Year 7 Admissions Criteria
Admission into Year 7 is selective, with the aim of identifying boys and girls who are academically able, well-rounded, and ready to benefit from the full Gresham’s experience.
Admission is based on:
- Entrance Assessment
- Interview
- Reference from the applicant’s current school
🔹 1. Entrance Assessment
Applicants are invited to an Assessment Day, usually held in January or February of Year 6, for entry the following September.
The assessment includes:
- English – Comprehension and written task
- Mathematics – Based on Key Stage 2 content
- Cognitive Abilities Test (CAT4) – Reasoning and problem-solving
📍 The assessment takes place on-site at Gresham’s, and is designed to assess both attainment and potential.
🔹 2. Interview
Each candidate will take part in a friendly and informal interview with the Head of the Prep School or a senior member of staff.
- Focuses on the pupil’s interests, attitude, and curiosity
- Helps the school understand the child beyond academic performance
🔹 3. School Reference
A confidential reference is requested from the pupil’s current school, covering:
- Academic strengths
- Work ethic and behaviour
- Social development and contribution to school life
🎓 Scholarships & Bursaries
⭐ Scholarships (Available at 11+)
Scholarships are offered for outstanding ability in:
- Academic subjects
- Music
- Sport
- Drama
- Art
- All-Rounder
📝 Candidates applying for scholarships attend additional assessments or auditions, depending on the discipline.
💰 Means-Tested Bursaries
- Available to UK-based families who need financial support
- Can cover up to 100% of the fees, depending on need
- A full financial assessment is required
Scholarships and bursaries can be combined.
📝 How to Apply for Year 7 at Gresham’s
✅ Step 1: Visit the School
- Book a personal tour, attend an Open Day, or arrange a Taster Day
🔗 Visit Gresham’s
✅ Step 2: Register
- Complete the registration form
- Pay the registration fee (£100 for UK applicants)
🔗 Admissions Page
🗓 Registration deadline: Typically November or December of Year 6
✅ Step 3: Attend Assessment & Interview
- Assessment Day: Usually held in January or February 2025
- Scholarship assessments are typically held around the same time
✅ Step 4: Offers & Acceptance
- Offers made in February
- Acceptance deadline usually in March, with a deposit to secure the place
