Derby High School – 11+ Practice Papers with Video Explanations
Derby High School is a leading independent day school in Littleover, Derby, offering co-educational education from Nursery to Sixth Form. Originally founded in 1892 as a girls’ school, it has evolved over the decades to meet the educational needs of a broader student body.
In 2019, the school became fully co-educational, welcoming boys into all year groups after previously admitting them only into the Sixth Form and Primary phase. This move was part of a wider strategy to provide an inclusive, modern, and academically ambitious education for all pupils.
The school is set in 22 acres of grounds and has a long-standing reputation for academic excellence, outstanding pastoral care, and a vibrant co-curricular programme.
👩🎓👨🎓 Pupil Numbers
- Total enrolment: Approximately 580 students
- Nursery to Year 6 (Primary): ~150 pupils
- Senior School (Years 7–11): ~300 students
- Sixth Form (Years 12–13): ~130 students
- Co-educational throughout, including Sixth Form
- Selective admissions based on interviews, assessments, and school reports
🎓 Academic Reputation
Derby High School has built a strong academic reputation across the East Midlands and is known for high achievement in GCSEs and A-Levels, excellent university destinations, and a supportive academic environment.
📈 Academic Highlights:
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GCSE Results:
- Consistently strong results with a high percentage of grades 7–9 (A–A)*
- Particularly strong in Sciences, Maths, English, and Modern Languages
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A-Level Results:
- 71% of grades were A-B*, with 37% A/A*
- Many students go on to Russell Group universities, including Oxford, Cambridge, Durham, and Imperial College
- Wide range of subjects including STEM, Psychology, Art, English Literature, and Business
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University Success:
- Regular placements for Medicine, Veterinary Science, and Law
- Support for applications to Oxbridge, UCAS, and US universities
- Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) offered and highly encouraged
🏆 Awards & Recognition
- Rated “Excellent” in both Academic Achievement and Pupil Development by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI)
- Success in:
- UKMT Maths Challenges
- British Science Olympiads
- Debating and Creative Writing Competitions
- LAMDA Speech and Drama Exams
- Recognised for:
- Pastoral care
- Character development and leadership
- Inclusivity and wellbeing programmes
Derby High School is a well-respected, academically strong independent school that offers a warm, inclusive, and ambitious environment for students of all abilities. Its balance of tradition and innovation, academic excellence and pastoral care, makes it a top choice for families in Derbyshire and the East Midlands.
🏫 Derby High School – Contact Information
School Name: Derby High School
Type: Independent Co-educational Day School (Ages 3–18)
📍 Address:
Derby High School
Hillsway
Littleover
Derby
Derbyshire
DE23 3DT
United Kingdom
☎️ Telephone:
+44 (0)1332 514267
📧 Email:
🌐 Website:
https://www.derbyhigh.derby.sch.uk
📱 Social Media:
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Facebook: Derby High School
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Twitter/X: @DerbyHighSchool
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Instagram: @derbyhighschool
📝 Exam Board: School’s own test
Derby High’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 Derby High School in the 11+ Entrance Exam
Derby High 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 Derby High 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 Derby High School 11+ Exam Preparation
1. Understand the Exam Format
📌Derby High 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 Derby High 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 Derby High School 11+ Entrance Exam.
📌 Start practicing today to help your child achieve a top score and secure a place at Derby High School! 🚀
Derby High School – Year 7 Admissions Criteria & How to Apply
Derby High School is a co-educational independent school in Littleover, Derby, offering education for pupils aged 3 to 18. Entry into Year 7 (Senior School) is selective, and based on performance in an entrance assessment, a school report, and sometimes an interview.
✅ Year 7 Admissions Criteria
Admission into Year 7 is based on the following:
1. Entrance Examination
- Pupils sit three assessments:
- English (reading comprehension and creative writing)
- Mathematics
- Verbal Reasoning
- The exam is designed to assess potential, not just prior knowledge.
2. School Reference
- A confidential report is requested from the applicant’s current school, covering academic progress and behaviour.
3. Interview
- Some candidates may be invited for an informal interview with senior staff as part of the admissions process.
📝 How to Apply for Year 7 at Derby High School
Step 1: Visit the School
- Attend an Open Morning or book an individual tour.
- A great way to meet teachers and see the school environment.
Step 2: Register Your Child
- Complete the registration form on the school website or via the Admissions Office.
- Pay the non-refundable registration fee (usually around £50–£100).
- Registration should be completed by early January for September entry.
Step 3: Sit the Entrance Exam
- The Entrance Exam Day is typically held in late January.
- Pupils take the tests at the school.
Step 4: Receive Offer
- Offers are made based on entrance exam performance and school reference.
- Successful applicants are sent a formal offer letter.
Step 5: Accept the Offer
- Parents confirm acceptance by the deadline and pay a deposit to secure the place.
🎓 Scholarships & Bursaries
Derby High School offers a range of academic scholarships and means-tested bursaries for pupils entering Year 7:
- Academic Scholarships – awarded based on outstanding entrance exam results.
- Music Scholarships – require an audition and demonstration of musical talent.
- Bursaries – assessed on financial need; families must complete a bursary application form.
✅ Be sure to express interest in scholarships or bursaries when you apply.
ℹ️ Additional Information
- Website: www.derbyhigh.derby.sch.uk
- Admissions Contact:
✉️ admissions@derbyhigh.derby.sch.uk
☎️ 01332 514267



