Bristol Grammar School (BGS) 11+ Practice Papers

Bristol Grammar School (BGS) – 11+ Practice Papers with Video Explanations

Bristol Grammar School (BGS) is one of the UK’s leading independent co-educational day schools for pupils aged 4 to 18, located in the heart of Bristol. With a rich history dating back to the 16th century, BGS is known for its academic excellence, outstanding pastoral care, and a strong reputation in the arts, music, and sport.

🏛️ History of the School

Founded: 1532
Founded by Robert and Nicholas Thorne, wealthy Bristol merchants, with the support of King Henry VIII, to provide education to the city’s brightest boys
Became a direct grant grammar school and later fully independent in the 1970s
Became fully co-educational in 1980, and has since grown into one of the most respected day schools in the South West
The main school buildings overlook University Road and the University of Bristol, reflecting a longstanding academic partnership and influence

👩‍🎓👨‍🎓 Pupil Numbers

Total enrolment: Approx. 1,300–1,400 pupils
- Infants & Juniors (Ages 4–11): ~250
- Senior School & Sixth Form (Ages 11–18): ~1,100
Fully co-educational
Selective entry at 7+, 11+, and 16+, with competitive assessments and interviews

🎓 Academic Reputation

BGS has a national reputation for academic rigour, with students consistently achieving excellent results and securing places at top universities in the UK and abroad. The school offers a challenging curriculum while encouraging curiosity, creativity, and independence.

📈 Exam Results:

GCSE:
- ~80% of grades were 9–7 (A–A*)
A-Level:
- ~85% of grades were A–B*
- Strong performance in Sciences, Maths, English, History, Modern Languages, Philosophy, and the Arts

🎓 University Destinations:

High proportion of leavers progress to:
- Russell Group universities, including Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, Durham, Bristol, and Exeter
- Courses in Medicine, Law, Economics, Engineering, Humanities, and Creative Arts
- A growing number of students pursue overseas universities, including US Ivy League schools and European institutions

💰 Bursaries & Scholarships

BGS offers means-tested bursaries (up to 100% of fees) at key entry points
Scholarships available in:
- Academic achievement
- Music, Sport, Drama, and Art

The school is committed to widening access and preserving its founders’ original intent of providing education based on merit, not means.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

ISI Inspection:
- Rated “Excellent” in all categories for academic achievement and personal development
Regularly featured in:
- The Times and Sunday Times Parent Power as one of the top schools in the South West
Pupils frequently achieve success in:
- Maths Olympiads, Science competitions, debating, Model UN, and essay prizes

🏫 Bristol Grammar School – Contact Information

School Name: Bristol Grammar School (BGS)
Type: Independent Co-educational Day School (Ages 4–18)

📍 Address:

Bristol Grammar School
University Road
Clifton
Bristol
BS8 1SR
United Kingdom

☎️ Telephone:

+44 (0)117 973 6006

📝 Exam Board: School’s own test

The school’s location can be viewed on the map below:

How to Use ExamTutor 11 Plus Practice Papers with Video Explanations to Achieve High Scores for Bristol Grammar School (BGS), in the 11+ Entrance Exam

Bristol Grammar School (BGS) 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 Bristol Grammar School (BGS) 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 Bristol Grammar School (BGS) 11+ Exam Preparation

1. Understand the Exam Format

📌 The Bristol Grammar School (BGS) 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 Bristol Grammar School (BGS) – 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 Bristol Grammar School (BGS) 11+ Entrance Exam.

📌 Start practicing today to help your child achieve a top score and secure a place at Bristol Grammar School (BGS)! 🚀

Bristol Grammar School (BGS) – Year 7 Admissions Criteria & How to Apply

Independent Co-educational Day School | Bristol | Ages 4–18

Bristol Grammar School (BGS) is a prestigious independent co-educational day school in the heart of Bristol, educating pupils from Reception through to Sixth Form. Founded in 1532, BGS combines rich heritage with modern academic excellence and a strong focus on pastoral care and co-curricular involvement.

Year 7 is one of the main entry points into the Senior School (Years 7–11), with pupils joining from both the Junior School and external schools.

✅ Year 7 Admissions Criteria

Entry to Year 7 is selective, based on:

Entrance Assessment
Interview
School Report / Reference

🔹 1. Entrance Assessment

Applicants take part in an 11+ entrance exam, usually held in January of Year 6.

✍️ The exam includes:

English – Reading comprehension and creative writing
Mathematics – Based on the Key Stage 2 curriculum
Reasoning – Verbal and/or non-verbal (CAT4-style)

The assessment is designed to identify potential and academic ability, not just current knowledge.

🔹 2. Interview

Shortlisted applicants are invited to a friendly, informal interview with a senior member of staff
The interview allows the school to get to know each child beyond their exam performance, including:
- Interests and hobbies
- Attitude to learning
- Confidence and communication

🔹 3. School Report / Reference

BGS requests:

A confidential reference from the applicant’s current school
Recent academic school reports

These help the school assess the pupil’s academic progress, behaviour, and contribution to school life.

🎓 Scholarships & Bursaries

⭐ Scholarships (Year 7 Entry)

Available in the following areas:

Academic
Music
Sport
Performing Arts (Drama)
Art

Scholarship awards are competitive and may include a fee remission of 5–20%, along with enrichment opportunities.

Additional assessments, auditions, or portfolios may be required, depending on the scholarship type.

💰 Means-Tested Bursaries

Available for UK families who need financial assistance
Can cover up to 100% of tuition fees, depending on need
Awarded based on financial circumstances and performance in entrance assessments

Families apply separately through a bursary application process, which includes submitting financial documentation.

📝 How to Apply for Year 7 at BGS

✅ Step 1: Visit the School

Attend an Open Day or arrange a private visit
🔗 Visit BGS

✅ Step 2: Register

Complete the online registration form
Pay the registration fee (£50–£100, depending on circumstances)
🔗 Register Here

🗓 Deadline for entry: Usually early December

✅ Step 3: Entrance Exam

Held in January
On-site at Bristol Grammar School

✅ Step 4: Interview (if shortlisted)

Conducted shortly after the entrance exam
Scholarship auditions/assessments may take place around this time

✅ Step 5: Offers & Acceptance

Offers typically sent by February
Acceptance deadline follows shortly after, with a deposit required

Bristol Grammar School (BGS) | 11+

11+

GL Assessment