Bishop Wordsworth’s School (BWS) 11+ Practice Papers

Bishop Wordsworth’s School (BWS) – 11+ Practice Papers with Video Explanations

Bishop Wordsworth’s School (commonly known as BWS) is a selective Church of England grammar school for boys aged 11–18, with a co-educational Sixth Form, located in the heart of Salisbury, Wiltshire.

The school was founded in 1889 by John Wordsworth, the Bishop of Salisbury, and the nephew of the poet William Wordsworth. It was originally created to provide high-quality education to boys from Salisbury and the surrounding area, grounded in Christian values and academic excellence.

BWS is located adjacent to the historic Salisbury Cathedral, with which it maintains close links. Over the years, it has developed into one of the leading grammar schools in the South West, with an outstanding record of academic achievement, leadership development, and university progression.

Pupil Numbers

Approximately 1,100 students from Years 7 to 13.
The Sixth Form is co-educational, with around 300 students (both boys and girls).
Heavily oversubscribed, with Year 7 admission via the 11+ selective entrance exam, and competitive entry at Sixth Form.

Academic Reputation

Bishop Wordsworth’s School is consistently ranked among the top-performing state schools in the UK. It has a strong tradition of academic excellence, particularly in STEM, humanities, and languages, and a commitment to Christian values, service, and leadership.

Key Academic Achievements:

GCSE Results:
- A very high percentage of students achieve *grades 7–9 (A–A equivalent)**.
- Especially strong in Mathematics, Sciences, English, and History.
A-Level Results:
- A large proportion of Sixth Formers achieve A–B grades*, with many securing places at Oxford, Cambridge, Russell Group, and top international universities.
- Most popular A-Level subjects include Sciences, Economics, Mathematics, and Politics.
Oxbridge & University Success:
- A strong track record of students gaining entry to Oxbridge and top medical and law schools.
Value-Added & Progress Measures:
- Among the highest nationally for progress and attainment, especially in the Sixth Form.

Awards & Recognitions

BWS has been widely recognised for both academic and holistic achievements:

Rated “Outstanding” by Ofsted in several areas (latest inspection: Short Inspection, 2017, confirmed continued excellence).
Designated Teaching School and Maths Hub partner, supporting schools across the South West.
Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Gold Award Centre, with large participation numbers annually.
Success in STEM competitions such as the UKMT Maths Challenge and British Physics Olympiad.
Recognised for outstanding music and choral education, particularly due to its proximity to and collaboration with Salisbury Cathedral.

Bishop Wordsworth’s School is a historic and high-performing grammar school, combining traditional values with modern academic rigour. With exceptional results, strong university progression, and a focus on leadership and service, BWS stands as one of the most respected grammar schools in the country. Its unique setting near Salisbury Cathedral, rich heritage, and commitment to personal growth make it a top choice for academically ambitious students in the region.

🏫 Bishop Wordsworth’s School – Contact Information

School Name: Bishop Wordsworth’s School (BWS)
Type: Selective State Grammar School for Boys (Co-educational in Sixth Form, Ages 11–18)

📍 Address:

Bishop Wordsworth’s School
Exeter Street
Salisbury
Wiltshire
SP1 2ED
United Kingdom

☎️ Telephone:

+44 (0)1722 333851

📝 Exam Board: GL Assessment

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 the Bishop Wordsworth’s School (BWS) 11+ Entrance Exam

Admission to Year 7 at Bishop Wordsworth’s School (BWS) is based on performance in the GL Assessment 11+ entrance exam.

To secure a place, students must achieve a high score in the entrance test. ExamTutor’s 11+ Practice 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 11+ Practice Papers with Video Explanations Help Students Succeed

1. Mirrors the GL Assessment 11+ Test Format

ExamTutor’s practice papers closely follow the GL Assessment 11+ test format, covering:
📌 English – Reading comprehension, grammar, punctuation, and vocabulary.
📌 Mathematics – Numerical reasoning, arithmetic, and problem-solving.
📌 Verbal Reasoning – Word patterns, logic, and problem-solving.
📌 Non-Verbal Reasoning – Spatial awareness, pattern recognition, and sequences.

✔ By practicing with ExamTutor papers, students become familiar with the structure and content of the Bishop Wordsworth’s School (BWS) entrance exam, improving confidence and performance.

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

A structured study plan is essential for 11+ 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 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.

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

4. Develop Strong Time Management & Exam Techniques

Success in the 11+ 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 Bishop Wordsworth’s School (BWS) 11+ 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 Bishop Wordsworth’s School (BWS) Preparation?

✔ 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.

Bishop Wordsworth’s School (BWS) Year 7 is highly competitive, but ExamTutor 11+ Practice Papers with Video Explanations provide a powerful tool to maximise your child’s success.

By mirroring the GL Assessment 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 Bishop Wordsworth’s School (BWS).

📌 Start preparing today with ExamTutor and set your child on the path to 11+ success! 🚀

Bishop Wordsworth’s School (BWS) – Year 7 Admissions Criteria & How to Apply

Bishop Wordsworth’s School (BWS) is a selective Church of England grammar school for boys located in Salisbury, Wiltshire. Admission into Year 7 is based on performance in the 11+ Entrance Test.

✅ Admissions Criteria for Year 7 Entry

To be eligible for a place in Year 7, boys must:

1. Pass the BWS 11+ Entrance Test

The test includes two papers:
- English
- Mathematics
Tests are designed to assess natural ability and curriculum understanding.
Applicants must meet the required standardised score set by the school.

2. Oversubscription Criteria (if more boys pass the test than there are places available):

Priority is given in the following order:

Looked After and Previously Looked After Children
Children who live within the designated catchment area
Siblings of boys currently attending the school
Children of permanent staff members
Boys living outside the designated area, ranked by test score and then distance from the school

📝 How to Apply for Year 7 at BWS

Step 1: Register for the BWS 11+ Entrance Test

Registration must be completed directly with the school
Registration opens: April
Registration closes: September
Register at: www.bishopwordsworths.org.uk/admissions

Step 2: Sit the Entrance Test

Test date: Usually mid to late September
Testing takes place at Bishop Wordsworth’s School

Step 3: Receive Test Results

Results are issued before the national CAF deadline so that parents can make informed school choices

Step 4: Submit the Secondary School Common Application Form (CAF)

Apply through your Local Authority (e.g., Wiltshire Council)
Deadline: 31st October
You must name Bishop Wordsworth’s School as one of your preferences

Step 5: National Offer Day

Offers made on 1st March
Unsuccessful applicants may appeal or join the waiting list

ℹ️ Additional Information

Website: www.bishopwordsworths.org.uk
Admissions Policy & Catchment Map: Available under the Admissions section
Local Authority Applications: www.wiltshire.gov.uk

Bishop Wordsworth’s School (BWS) | 11+

11+

GL Assessment