Carrickfergus Grammar School Information

🏫 Carrickfergus Grammar School – SEAG Practice Papers with Video Explanations

SEAG Practice Test Pack 1

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SEAG Practice Test Pack 2

£35.00

• 4 High Quality Practice Tests.
• 4 x English & Maths Papers
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• 224 Video Explanations.

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SEAG Practice Test Pack 3

£35.00

• 4 High Quality Practice Tests.
• 4 x English & Maths Papers
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• 9.5 Hours of Video Content.
• 224 Video Explanations.

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SEAG Practice Tests – Multi-Pack Bundle

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• 12 High Quality Practice Tests.
• 12 x English & Maths Papers
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• 30.5 Hours of Video Content.
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Voluntary Grammar School | Co-educational | Carrickfergus, County Antrim | Ages 11–18

📚 History of Carrickfergus Grammar School

Carrickfergus Grammar School (CGS) was established in 1962 to meet the educational needs of the growing town of Carrickfergus, one of the oldest settlements in Northern Ireland. Since its foundation, the school has grown in size, reputation, and academic strength, offering high-quality grammar school education to students from Carrickfergus and surrounding areas including Belfast, Newtownabbey, and Larne.

Over the decades, the school has become known for its academic success, inclusive ethos, and commitment to personal development. Situated on the North Road, the school enjoys excellent facilities, including modern science labs, ICT suites, and a recently updated Sixth Form Centre.

The school motto is:
“Per Laborem” – Through Work (comes Success)

👨‍🎓 Pupil Numbers & School Structure

• Total Pupils: ~800

• Year 8 Intake: ~110–120 pupils

• Sixth Form: ~200+ students

• Gender: Co-educational

• Age Range: 11–18

• School Type: Voluntary Grammar School

• Religious Affiliation: Non-denominational (inclusive Christian ethos)

🎓 Academic Reputation

Carrickfergus Grammar School has established itself as one of Northern Ireland’s most consistently improving grammar schools, especially praised for academic value-added — meaning students perform better than expected based on baseline assessments.

✅ Academic Strengths:

• Strong performance in English, Maths, Sciences, Business, and ICT

• Broad curriculum including traditional academic subjects and Applied A-Levels

• Excellent progression to university, including Queen’s, Ulster University, and UK mainland institutions

📊 Academic Results:

• GCSEs:

  • ~100% of pupils achieve 5+ GCSEs at grades A–C*, including English and Maths

  • ~85–90% of GCSE grades at A–B*

• A-Levels:

  • ~85–88% of A-Level grades at A–C*

  • High numbers progress to competitive fields including Engineering, Business, Law, Nursing, and Sciences

🏆 Awards & Recognition

• ETI Inspection Reports highlight:

  • Strong leadership and teaching

  • High academic expectations

  • Outstanding pupil care and wellbeing

• Achievements in:

  • UK Maths Challenge

  • Young Enterprise NI

  • NI Science Olympiads and Coding/Robotics Competitions

• Recognised as a:

  • Google Reference School for digital innovation

  • Eco-Schools Green Flag holder for environmental education

  • Pastoral Leadership Excellence award recipient

🏫 Carrickfergus Grammar School – Contact Information

School Name: Carrickfergus Grammar School
Type: Co-educational Voluntary Grammar School (Ages 11–18)
Location: Carrickfergus, County Antrim, Northern Ireland

📍 Address:

Carrickfergus Grammar School
120 North Road
Carrickfergus
County Antrim
BT38 7RA
Northern Ireland
United Kingdom

☎️ Telephone:

+44 (0)28 9336 2861

📧 Email:

info@carrickfergusgrammar.carrickfergus.ni.sch.uk

🌐 Website:

https://www.carrickfergusgrammar.com

📱 Social Media:

• Facebook: Carrickfergus Grammar School

• Twitter/X: @CarrickGrammar

SEAG Score Needed to get into Carrickfergus Grammar School

Below is historical scores for Carrickfergus Grammar School from 2023 to 2014.

2023 Lowest Grade – AQE – 93
2022 Lowest Grade – AQE – 86
2021 N/A
2020 Lowest Grade – AQE – 90
2019 Lowest Grade – AQE – 90
2018 Lowest Grade – AQE – 96
2017 Lowest Grade – AQE – 95
2016 Lowest Grade – AQE – 97
2015 Lowest Grade – AQE – 80
2014 Lowest Grade – AQE – 94

As you can see from the above stats 93 in AQE test in recent years will have got you into Carrickfergus Grammar School. The highest score needed was 97 in year 2016.
A 97 score in old AQE test is equivalent to 190 in new SEAG test, so based on past intake a minimum score of 190+ in SEAG test would give your child a very high chance of getting accepted into Carrickfergus Grammar School.

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 Carrickfergus Grammar School

Preparing for the SEAG Transfer Test effectively is crucial to securing a place at highly competitive grammar schools like Carrickfergus Grammar School. 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.

Carrickfergus Grammar School 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 Carrickfergus Grammar School.

Why Choose ExamTutor 11+ Practice Papers for Carrickfergus Grammar School 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 Carrickfergus Grammar School 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

If applications exceed the number of places (~110–120), the following criteria are applied:

1. SEAG Transfer Test score – ranked highest to lowest

2. Siblings of current or past pupils

3. Children of staff or former pupils

4. Pupils from named contributory primary schools

5. Geographical proximity to the school

✅ Special Circumstances may be considered for:

• Pupils with SEN, illness, bereavement, or new arrivals to Northern Ireland

• Requires documented evidence

📅 Admissions Timeline

SEAG Exam Information for ‘Carrickfergus Grammar School’.

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. Carrickfergus Grammar School is a SEAG School. Carrickfergus Grammar School 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 Carrickfergus Grammar School

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:
The Board of Governors will not use as a criterion the position of preference given to the school by the applicant on the Transfer Form. When considering which children should be selected for admission, the Board of Governors will take into account only information which is detailed on or uploaded with the Transfer Application, including the Total Standardised Age Score provided by the Schools’ Entrance Assessment Group as a result of the child’s performance in the SEAG Entrance Assessment (or the score assigned as a result of consideration of Special Circumstances and/or Special Provisions). It is the responsibility of parents/guardians to make sure that all information pertaining to their child and relevant to the School’s Admissions Criteria, as outlined below, is stated on, or uploaded with, the Transfer Application. Parents/Guardians should note that they are required to produce documents verifying information pertinent to the School’s Admissions Criteria.
If the number of applications is greater than the Admissions Number determined by the Department of Education, the following Admissions Criteria (to include sub-criteria) shall be applied in the order listed below until the point where the admissions number is reached.
If there are fewer applicants complying with a particular criterion or sub-criterion than there are places available or remaining, those applicants complying with that criterion or sub-criterion will be admitted and the next criterion or sub-criterion will be applied to the remaining applicants.
If there are more applicants complying with a particular criterion or sub-criterion than there are places available or remaining, those applicants complying with that criterion or sub-criterion will go forward to be considered under the next criterion or sub-criterion and those not complying with that criterion or sub-criterion will be eliminated.
1.1 Children resident in Northern Ireland at the time of their proposed admission will be selected for admission to the School before any child not so resident. The child’s Birth Certificate and proof of address should be uploaded with the Transfer Application. Proof of address – any TWO of the following recent (within the past 6 months) documents with sensitive information redacted: Bank/building society statement; Utility bill (e.g. electricity, gas, TV licence, telephone); Addressed payslip; Letter awarding Child Benefit to the child or another letter relating to this benefit; Mortgage statement; Land and Property Services Rates Demand; Financial statement such as ISA, Pension or Endowment; Current Driving licence; Rental agreement.
1.2 The Board of Governors will consider children who have taken the Entrance Assessment administered by the Schools’ Entrance Assessment Group. The Board of Governors will use the Total Standardised Age Score as awarded by SEAG to a pupil in the Entrance Assessment, subject only to the consideration of parent/ guardian(s) claiming ‘Special Circumstances’ or ‘Special Provisions’ as defined overleaf. Places will be allocated in strict rank order of the scores, starting with the highest score and working in descending rank order, up to the Admissions Number (116). The TSAS in the SEAG Entrance Assessment should be entered, along with the SEAG Unique Pupil Number, on the Transfer Application.
1.3 Places will then be allocated using the following sub-criteria, in the order listed:
I. Children who, at the date of their application, have another child of the family 1 currently enrolled at the school [state name(s) and Registration Group(s) on the Transfer Application];
II. Children who are the eldest eligible child 2 to be eligible to be accepted for enrolment in the School. Proof of eldest child should be uploaded with the Transfer Application – a letter on headed note paper, stating that the child is the eldest eligible child and that the family is known to the verifier, from one of the following who is not a family member of the applicant: a Primary School Principal, a medical practitioner, a solicitor, an elected public representative, a member of the clergy or a police officer.
III. Children attending one of the School’s contributory Primary Schools as defined below or attending another school which is closer as the crow flies3 than any of the School’s contributory Primary Schools;
IV. Children will be selected for admission on the basis of a random selection process. Each application to be considered at this stage will be allocated a random number electronically generated within “Microsoft Excel”; the applications will then be ranked in numerical order, with higher numbers having preference over lower numbers.
The School’s contributory Primary Schools are:
Abbots Cross PS, Acorn PS, Ashgrove PS, Ballycarry PS, Carnmoney PS, Carrickfergus Model PS , Central Integrated PS, Earlview PS, Eden PS, Glengormley Integrated PS, Greenisland PS, Islandmagee PS, King’s Park PS, Mossley PS, Oakfield PS, Silverstream PS, St Nicholas’ PS, Straid PS, Sunnylands PS, Victoria PS, Whiteabbey PS, Whitehead PS, Whitehouse PS, Woodburn PS, Woodlawn PS.
If there are still places available after consideration of all the children who have taken the SEAG Entrance Assessment and been awarded a Total Standardised Age Score by SEAG (or a score assigned by the Admissions Sub-Committee in accordance with the arrangements for Special Circumstances and Special Provisions as set out below), the School will consider for admission Late Applications or any children who have not taken the SEAG Entrance Assessment. Such children, if they satisfy Criterion 1.1, will be allocated to the remaining place(s) up to the School’s Admissions Number using the sub-criteria listed in section 1.3 in the order set out.
Carrickfergus Grammar School website for a more detailed Admissions Policy document – the https://www.carrickfergusgrammar.com