Methodist College Belfast Information

🏫 Methodist College Belfast (MCB) – SEAG Practice Papers with Video Explanations

SEAG Practice Test Pack 1

£35.00

• 4 High Quality Practice Tests.
• 4 x English & Maths Papers
• Video Solutions for all Questions!
• 12 Hours of Video Content.
• 224 Video Explanations.

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SEAG Practice Test Pack 2

£35.00

• 4 High Quality Practice Tests.
• 4 x English & Maths Papers
• Video Solutions for all Questions!
• 9 Hours of Video Content.
• 224 Video Explanations.

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SEAG Practice Test Pack 3

£35.00

• 4 High Quality Practice Tests.
• 4 x English & Maths Papers
• Video Solutions for all Questions!
• 9.5 Hours of Video Content.
• 224 Video Explanations.

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SEAG Practice Tests – Multi-Pack Bundle

£85.00

• 12 High Quality Practice Tests.
• 12 x English & Maths Papers
• Video Solutions for all Questions!
• 30.5 Hours of Video Content.
• 672 Video Explanations.

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Voluntary Grammar School | Co-educational | Belfast, Northern Ireland | Ages 11–18

📚 History of Methodist College Belfast

Methodist College Belfast, often referred to as “Methody”, was founded in 1865 by the Methodist Church in Ireland. It was established to provide a Christian, liberal, and inclusive education to boys and girls, and has grown to become one of the largest and most prestigious grammar schools in the UK and Ireland.

Located in the heart of South Belfast, beside the Botanic Gardens and Queen’s University Belfast, Methody has an impressive campus that includes a modern teaching complex, music and drama facilities, and a dedicated Sixth Form Centre.

Its motto, “Deus Nobis Haec Otia Fecit” (“God has given us this tranquility”), reflects its long-standing Christian heritage and dedication to academic and personal development.

👨‍🎓 Pupil Numbers & School Structure

• Total Pupils: ~1,800

• Year 8 Intake: ~240 students

• Sixth Form: ~600 students

• Gender: Co-educational

• Age Range: 11–18

• School Type: Voluntary Grammar School

• Religious Affiliation: Methodist (welcoming all faiths)

🎓 Academic Reputation

Methodist College Belfast is one of Northern Ireland’s top academic schools, regularly ranked among the top 5 grammar schools in the region and across the UK. The College is known for its rigorous academic standards, breadth of curriculum, and exceptional teaching.

✅ Academic Strengths:

• Strong departments in Sciences, Mathematics, Modern Languages, English Literature, and Music

• Dedicated programmes for Oxbridge, Medicine, Law, and other high-demand university paths

• High success rate in public examinations and university admissions

📊 Academic Results:

• GCSEs:

  • ~99–100% of pupils achieve 7+ GCSEs at grades A–C* (including English and Maths)

  • ~85–90% of grades at A–A*

• A-Levels:

  • ~90% of grades at A–B*

  • Regular entry to Russell Group universities, Oxbridge, and top UK/Irish institutions

🏆 Awards & Recognition

• Regularly listed among the Top 100 Schools in the UK

🏫 Methodist College Belfast – Contact Information

School Name: Methodist College Belfast
Common Name: Methody
Type: Co-educational Voluntary Grammar School (Ages 11–18)
Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland

📍 Address:

Methodist College Belfast
1 Malone Road
Belfast
BT9 6BY
Northern Ireland
United Kingdom

☎️ Telephone:

+44 (0)28 9020 5205

📧 Email:

info@methody.org

🌐 Website:

https://www.methody.org

📱 Social Media:

• Facebook: Methodist College Belfast

• Twitter/X: @MethodyBelfast

• Instagram: @methodistcollegebelfast

You can view the school’s location on the map below:

SEAG Score Needed to get into Methodist College Belfast

Below is historical scores for Methodist College Belfast from 2024 to 2014.

2024 Lowest Grade – SEAG – 206
2023 Lowest Grade – AQE – 101
2022 Lowest Grade – AQE – 105
2021 N/A
2020 Lowest Grade – AQE – 101
2019 Lowest Grade – AQE – 100
2018 Lowest Grade – AQE – 95
2017 Lowest Grade – AQE – 95
2016 Lowest Grade – AQE – 100
2015 Lowest Grade – AQE – 100
2014 Lowest Grade – AQE – 95

As you can see from the above stats the highest AQE score needed was 105 in 2022 to get accepted into Methodist College Belfast. We also have information on the SEAG score for 2024. The lowest SEAG score to get a place at Methodist College Belfast in 2024 was 206.
A 105 score in old AQE test is equivalent to 206 in new SEAG test, so based on past intake a minimum score of 206+ in SEAG test would give your child a very high chance of getting accepted into Methodist College Belfast. As we can see a SEAG score of 206 got you a place at Methodist College Belfast in 2024 so the guide for past scores was 1005 on the mark. We would still recommend getting a score above 206 in new SEAG test to have a high chance of getting accepted at Methodist College Belfast.

SEAG Comparison with historical AQE and PPTC outcomes:

*This is the minimum cohort percentile needed for that Band

Two examples:
A SEAG TSAS of 215 would be “equivalent” to a PPTC SAS of about 242 or an AQE SAS of about 109. A SEAG TSAS of 185 would be “equivalent” to a PPTC SAS of about 220 or an AQE SAS of about 94.

How to Use ExamTutor SEAG Transfer Test Practice Papers (with Video Explanations) to Achieve High Scores for Methodist College Belfast

Preparing for the SEAG Transfer Test effectively is crucial to securing a place at highly competitive grammar schools like Methodist College Belfast. To secure a place, students must achieve a high score in the SEAG Transfer Test. ExamTutor’s SEAG Practice Test Papers with Video Explanations provide a structured and effective way to prepare, ensuring students are fully familiar with the question types and exam format used in the 11+ entrance exam.

How ExamTutor SEAG Practice Papers with Video Explanations Help Students Succeed

1. Mirrors the SEAG Transfer Test Format

ExamTutor’s practice papers mirror the GL Assessment SEAG test format, covering:
📌 English – Reading comprehension, grammar, punctuation, and vocabulary.
📌 Mathematics – Numerical reasoning, arithmetic, and problem-solving.

✔ By practicing with ExamTutor papers, students become familiar with the structure and content of the SEAG entrance exam, improving confidence and performance.

2. Identify Weak Areas & Improve Performance with a Structured Study Plan

A structured study plan is essential for SEAG Transfer Test success. Our practice papers:
✔ Help identify weaker subjects at the earliest stage.
✔ Allow students to focus on specific question types where they struggle.
✔ Include detailed answer explanations so students understand their mistakes and improve.

📌 Tip: Encourage your child to take regular timed practice tests to build exam stamina and confidence.

3. Boost Confidence with Video Explanations

Some SEAG transfer Test question types can be challenging for students. Our tutor-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.

✔ Video explanations ensure students fully understand concepts rather than just memorising answers.

4. Develop Strong Time Management & Exam Techniques

Success in the SEAG entrance exam isn’t just about knowledge—it’s also about:
✔ Time management – Completing questions quickly and accurately under exam conditions.
✔ Skipping tricky questions – Avoid wasting time on difficult questions and returning to them later.
✔ Eliminating wrong answers – Using logical reasoning to improve accuracy.

📌 Tip: Regular timed practice with ExamTutor tests ensures students develop these key exam skills.

5. Build Confidence Before the Big Day

Confidence is crucial for success in the SEAG exam. Our practice tests help by:
✔ Simulating real exam conditions – So students know exactly what to expect.
✔ Providing motivation through measurable improvement.

📌 Tip: Encourage your child to review their mistakes using our detailed video explanations to turn weaknesses into strengths.

Why Choose ExamTutor 11+ Practice Papers for SEAG transfer test Preparation?

✔ SEAG GL Assessment-style practice papers covering all tested subjects.
✔ Video explanations for step-by-step learning.
✔ Used successfully by thousands of students every year.

How to Get Started with ExamTutor Practice Papers

1️⃣ Take a practice test – Identify your child’s strengths and weaknesses.
2️⃣ Create a study plan – Focus on weaker areas while reinforcing strengths.
3️⃣ Practice regularly – Use ExamTutor timed papers to simulate real exam conditions.
4️⃣ Review mistakes using video explanations – Learn from errors and improve.
5️⃣ Track progress – Monitor scores over time to ensure continuous improvement.

📌 Tip: Start preparing at least 6–12 months before the exam to allow enough time for practice and improvement.

Methodist College Belfast entry is highly competitive, but ExamTutor SEAG Practice Papers with Video Explanations provide a powerful tool to maximise your child’s success.

By mirroring the SEAG test format, identifying weak areas, improving time management, and building confidence, our practice tests give students the best chance of securing a high score and gaining admission to Royal School Armagh.

Why Choose ExamTutor 11+ Practice Papers for Methodist College Belfast Preparation?

✔ SEAG style practice papers covering all tested subjects.
✔ Video explanations for step-by-step learning.
✔ Used successfully by thousands of pupils every year.

Achieving a high SEAG score for Methodist College Belfast is very possible with the right strategy and tools. With ExamTutor’s exam-style papers and video explanations, you get both practice and expert guidance — exactly what’s needed to turn mistakes into mastery.

📌 Start preparing today with ExamTutor and set your child on the path to SEAG success! 🚀

📋 Admissions Criteria (Subject to Annual Review)

If oversubscribed (which it typically is), Methody applies the following criteria:

1. Applicants ranked by SEAG Transfer Test score

2. Siblings of current or former pupils

3. Children of current staff

4. Applicants from feeder or contributory primary schools

5. Proximity to the school (as a tie-breaker)

✅ Special Circumstances and Special Provisions are considered in line with SEAG guidance (e.g. illness, bereavement, SEN, newcomers to NI).

📅 Admissions Timeline

SEAG Exam Information for ‘Methodist College Belfast’.

The SEAG Group’ consists of 63 Grammar Schools in Northern Ireland that use academic selection for all or part of their Year 8 intake. The SEAG 2024 Entrance Assessment is for pupils who will be transferring to post primary schools and whose parents may be considering a place at a SEAG school for their child. Methodist College Belfast is a SEAG School. Methodist College Belfast will use the results from the SEAG Test to determine who gets offered a place at the school.

SEAG Registration and Exam Details
Parents can register their child at the SEAG website at the following address. SEAG (seagni.co.uk).The SEAG Entrance Assessment consists of two papers. Both papers assess English and Mathematics and both have an identical format consisting of three Sections:

1st Section – The Practice Test Section
This section contains 5 English followed by 5 Maths questions. These questions are designed to help pupils settle before the Main Test begins. The Practice Test is not assessed or timed.
2nd Section – English Main Test.
The English section of the paper consists of 28 questions (Q1-Q28) and is broken down into 4 sections:
1) “Punctuation Exercise” containing 5 multiple choice questions.
2) “Grammar Exercise” 5 multiple choice questions.
3) “Spelling Exercise” with 5 multiple choice questions.
4) Comprehension”. Contains a passage and are then asked 13 questions on the passage; 7 of these are multiple choice (Q16-Q22). The final 6 questions (Q23-Q28) are described as “free response”; the pupil writes the answer to each in the space provided in the Answer Sheet.
3rd Section – Maths Main Test.
The Maths section also has 28 questions (Q29-Q56) and is broken down into 2 sections:
1) The first 22 Maths questions (Q29-Q50) are multiple choice questions.
2) The final 6 Maths questions (Q51-Q56) are described as “free response”. For each of these questions the pupil works out the correct answer and writes the answer in the space provided in the Answer Sheet.
Pupils will have 60 minutes to answer the 56 Main Test questions.
They can choose to start with the English questions or with the Maths questions.
Each of the multiple choice questions has 5 possible answers.

Admissions Criteria for Methodist College Belfast

Most Northern Ireland Grammar Schools are now using the SEAG Entrance Assessment instead of Transfer Test AQE or PPTC/GL Assessment. As part of their admissions criteria each school uses slightly different criteria versions for admissions. The vast majority of schools will have SEAG Band one as 1st criteria which means you need to score 206+ in the SEAG Entrance Assessment Test. If you don’t get band one then you will not be guaranteed a grammar school place in any school in Northern Ireland.
After criteria one, criteria two can vary depending on Grammar School. The majority of Grammar Schools 2nd criteria will be if a family member currently or in some cases has attended the school, other schools will go straight to SEAG TSAS scores. The main key point to note is that you need to aim for band one which is 206 in SEAG Entrance Assessment for the vast majority of Grammar Schools in Northern Ireland. Another key point is school preference, most schools don’t stipulate they have to be number one preference on the SEAG Application form to be considered for a place at their school. So, if you put down a Grammar School as 1st preference and don’t get the grade to get in, as long as your 2nd choice school doesn’t stipulate their school has to be 1st preference then it’s the same as putting the 2nd school down 1st on the SEAG application form.
Our advice is to read the Grammar School criteria carefully and know what your child needs to achieve to gain entry as a lot of parents get confused over the criteria. We keep an up-to-date database of past Transfer Test and SEAG scores you need to gain entry to all Grammar Schools in Northern Ireland.
Our SEAG products at bottom of the page are proven resources to give you child the best chance of getting a high score in SEAG, our Practice Test Papers with video explanations are a great starting point for the SEAG Exam. Our online and live tutor bootcamps are a great alternative to an expensive tutor and our mock exams are a great way to find out what level your child is currently at compared to other children who have taken our mock exams in the same area. Our mock exams will be pitched at examination level difficulty so you have an exact understanding of the level your child needs to aim for. Below is the criteria for this Grammar School. If you have any questions please contact us:
Section 1. Introduction:
The Board of Governors of Methodist College Belfast intends to apply academic criteria to the applications received and so will accept the Total Standardised Age Score (referred to herein as the score) awarded by the School’s Entrance Assessment Group (referred to herein as SEAG) in the Entrance Assessment.
SEAG is very clear that its Entrance Assessment consists of two papers. A pupil who only takes one paper (i.e. either Paper 1 or Paper 2 but not both) will not have completed the full Entrance Assessment. Such pupils will, however, have their “single paper” marked and will receive a Statement of Outcomes. Outcomes for pupils who only sit one paper will have the designation “e” (for estimate) immediately after the Outcome, e.g. Total Standardised Age Score TSAS 196e; Band 4e. Such pupils will only be considered for admission by the Board of Governors under Special Provisions. If only one assessment was taken because of illness, or other unforeseen circumstances, a claim under Special Provisions should be submitted, which should include the estimated score for the SEAG paper sat, along with additional evidence of academic ability/attainment. The Board of Governors will also give due consideration to other claims for Special Circumstances or Special Provisions as explained in Section 3 and Section 4 of this policy.
The candidate’s unique pupil number and the score in the SEAG Entrance Assessment should be entered in the online Transfer Application. Parents/Guardians must also upload the Statement of Outcomes issued by SEAG to their child’s online Transfer Application.
The score awarded in the SEAG Entrance Assessment will be used as follows
Applicants will first be placed in rank order based on their results in the Entrance Assessment. Scores will range from 138 – 282 and higher scores will precede lower scores. Applicants will then be sub-divided into bands of 5 marks. Applicants who have claimed Special Circumstances and/or Special Provisions which have been accepted will be placed into a band by the Board of Governors (see Sections 3 and 4 below). The bands used by the Board of Governors will be as follows:

Please note the Board of Governors does not consider the order in which Parents/Guardians list schools on the online post-primary Transfer Application as part of their Admissions Criteria. All applications are treated as equal. Applicants who will be resident in Northern Ireland at the time of their proposed admission to the College will be selected for admission before any such applicants not so resident.
Section 2. Admissions Criteria for entry of pupils to Form 1/Year 8 in September 2024
The number of places available is limited to the Admissions Number set by the Department of Education for Northern Ireland; this is 240 places. The cut-off for admission will therefore be the 240th place. If the number of applications is greater than the Admissions Number determined by the Department of Education, the following criteria (to include sub-criteria) shall be applied in the order listed below until the point where the admissions number is reached.
2.1 Those applicants in the bands down to and including the 240th place based on the applicant’s performance in the SEAG Entrance Assessment. In the event of oversubscription in the band containing the 240th place then the following sub-criteria will be applied in the order listed to all applicants within the oversubscribed band:
2.1.i Applicants who are entitled to Free School Meals (FSME) (see note 1 below for further explanation);
2.1.ii Present members of the College in its Preparatory Department (see note 2);
2.1.iii The children of Methodist Ministers (see note 3);
2.1.iv Those with sibling(s) who is/are at present enrolled in the Secondary Department of the College or has/have already been offered a place (see note 4);
2.1.v If, following the application of the above criteria and sub criteria, it is not possible to identify for admission the exact number of children equivalent to the admissions number (in the event of pupils being tied for the final place(s) on the basis of the sub-criteria) then children will be ranked for acceptance based on a computer-based process (see note 5 below for further explanation).
In the event that there are fewer applicants complying with a particular sub-criterion than there are places available or remaining, those applicants complying with that sub-criterion will be admitted and the next sub-criterion will be applied to the remaining applicants. In the event that there are more applicants complying with a particular sub-criterion than there are places available or remaining, those applicants complying with that sub-criterion will go forward to be considered under the next subcriterion and those not complying with that sub-criterion will be eliminated. If, following the application of criterion 2.1, all the available places have not been filled, the Board of Governors will consider for admission any pupils without a SEAG standardised score. Allocation of these remaining places will be made by applying criteria 2.1.i to 2.1.v.
WAITING LIST POLICY
The Board of Governors operates a separate waiting list for Form 1/Year 8. All applications for admission to Form 1/Year 8 that were unsuccessful in obtaining a place in the College will be automatically added to the waiting list. New applications and applications where new information has been provided will also be added to the waiting list. Please contact the College if you wish your child’s name to be removed from the list. Should a vacancy arise after the completion of the Transfer Procedure and should there be more applications than places available, the procedure outlined above in the Admissions Criteria for entry of children to Form 1/Year 8 will be followed. The College will contact you in writing if your child gains a place in the College by this method.
Methodist College Belfast website for a more detailed Admissions Policy document – the https://www.methody.org