Bolton School – 11+ Practice Papers with Video Explanations
Bolton School is one of the UK’s leading independent day schools, offering single-sex education on a shared co-educational campus in Bolton, Greater Manchester. The school is divided into:
- Bolton School Boys’ Division
- Bolton School Girls’ Division
- Plus a co-educational Nursery and Infant School
The school traces its origins back to 1516, making it over 500 years old, and it has continuously evolved while preserving its academic and moral traditions. The school in its current form was largely shaped by the generosity of Sir William Hesketh Lever (founder of Lever Brothers/Unilever), who made major financial contributions in the early 20th century to support its expansion and charitable mission.
The school’s motto, “Mutare Sperno” (“I scorn to change”), reflects its dedication to enduring values such as academic excellence, character development, and service.
👨🎓👩🎓 Pupil Numbers
- Total students across all divisions: ~2,400
- Boys’ Division: ~1,000 students
- Girls’ Division: ~1,000 students
- Sixth Forms: Around 300–350 students in total (boys and girls educated separately)
- Nursery, Infant, and Junior Schools make up the rest
- Ages 0–18 across the full campus
- All divisions are day schools, with no boarding provision
🎓 Academic Reputation
Bolton School is widely recognised as one of the North of England’s top academic schools, with consistently outstanding exam results, a strong record of Oxbridge entries, and a balanced curriculum that combines academic rigour with character education.
📈 Academic Highlights:
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GCSE Results:
- A high proportion of students achieve grades 7–9 (A–A)*
- Core strengths include Sciences, Maths, English, Languages, and Humanities
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A-Level Results:
- Typically, around 70–80% of students achieve A–B grades*
- Students regularly gain places at Oxbridge, Russell Group universities, and top global institutions
- Strong performance in STEM, Law, Medicine, and Arts subjects
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University Destinations:
- Regular placements at Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, Durham, Manchester, LSE, Edinburgh
- Dedicated careers and higher education team supports UCAS, degree apprenticeships, and international applications
🏆 Awards & Recognition
- Rated “Excellent” in all areas by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI)
- Recognised for:
- Academic excellence and holistic development
- Outstanding extracurricular programme
- National and regional success in:
- UKMT Maths Challenges
- Science and Engineering Olympiads
- Debating and public speaking
- Young Enterprise and business competitions
- Awarded Eco-Schools Green Flag for sustainability initiatives
🏫 Bolton School – Contact Information
School Name: Bolton School
Type: Independent Day School – Boys’ Division and Girls’ Division (Ages 0–18)
📍 Address:
Bolton School
Chorley New Road
Bolton
Greater Manchester
BL1 4PA
United Kingdom
☎️ Telephone:
+44 (0)1204 840201
📧 Email:
🌐 Website:
📱 Social Media:
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Instagram: @boltonschool
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Facebook: Bolton School
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Twitter/X: @BoltonSchool
📝 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 Bolton School in the 11+ Entrance Exam
Bolton 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 Bolton 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 Bolton School 11+ Exam Preparation
1. Understand the Exam Format
📌Bolton School 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 Bolton 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 Bolton School 11+ Entrance Exam.
📌 Start practicing today to help your child achieve a top score and secure a place at Bolton School! 🚀
Bolton School – Year 7 Admissions Criteria & How to Apply
Bolton School is a prestigious independent day school in Greater Manchester, made up of two single-sex schools:
- Boys’ Division
- Girls’ Division
Admission to Year 7 is selective and based on performance in an entrance exam, along with a school reference and, in some cases, an interview. Both divisions follow the same admissions process, with assessments tailored to age and ability.
✅ Year 7 Admissions Criteria
Admission into Year 7 is based on:
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Entrance Examination
- The exam tests:
- English (comprehension & creative writing)
- Mathematics
- Verbal Reasoning
- No specific preparation or coaching is required — tests are designed to assess potential.
- The exam tests:
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School Reference
- A confidential report is requested from the applicant’s current school.
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Interview (if applicable)
- Some pupils may be invited for a short interview to get to know them better.
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Character & Values Fit
- The school looks for pupils who are:
- Academically able
- Keen to get involved in co-curricular life
- Enthusiastic, curious, and motivated
- The school looks for pupils who are:
📝 How to Apply for Year 7 at Bolton School
Step 1: Register Your Child
- Complete the online registration form on the school’s website.
- Pay the non-refundable registration fee (approx. £40–£50).
- Registration usually closes in December of Year 6.
Step 2: Sit the Entrance Examination
- Held in January of Year 6 at the school.
- Pupils complete papers in English, Maths, and Verbal Reasoning.
Step 3: Interview (if invited)
- Some applicants may be invited for an informal meeting after the exam.
Step 4: Receive Offer
- Offers are typically made in February.
- Offers may include scholarships (academic, music, sport) or means-tested bursaries.
Step 5: Accept the Offer
- Parents accept the place by paying a deposit.
🎓 Scholarships & Bursaries
- Academic Scholarships awarded based on exam performance.
- Music & Sports Scholarships may also be available (by audition/trial).
- Means-tested bursaries available for families who need financial support.
📝 You must indicate your interest in scholarships or bursaries on the application form.
ℹ️ Additional Information
- Website: www.boltonschool.org
- Admissions Contact:
- Girls’ Division: girls@boltonschool.org
- Boys’ Division: boys@boltonschool.org
- Phone: 01204 840201
