Devonport High School for Girls (DHSG) – 11+ Practice Papers with Video Explanations
Devonport High School for Girls (DHSG) is a selective grammar school for girls aged 11 to 18, located in Plymouth, Devon. The school is well known for its academic excellence, strong focus on STEM subjects, and commitment to leadership development. DHSG consistently ranks among the top-performing state grammar schools in the South West of England.
1. History & Background
- Founded in 1908, DHSG was established to provide high-quality education for academically able girls in Plymouth and the surrounding areas.
- The school initially operated in a former naval hospital, but as student numbers grew, it relocated to its current site on Lyndhurst Road.
- DHSG became an academy in 2011, allowing it greater control over its curriculum, governance, and funding.
- The school continues to focus on academic excellence, leadership, and preparing students for university and future careers.
2. Pupil Numbers
- Total student population: Approximately 850 pupils, from Years 7 to 13.
- Lower School (Years 7–11) – Around 650 students.
- Sixth Form (Years 12–13) – Around 200 students.
- Highly selective admissions process – Entry into Year 7 is based on performance in the 11+ entrance exam, and Sixth Form places require strong GCSE results.
3. Academic Reputation & Results
Devonport High School for Girls is regarded as one of the best grammar schools in the South West, with a strong focus on academic achievement, personal development, and university success.
📈 Exam Performance & National Rankings
- A-Level Results:
- Over 85% of grades were A–B*.
- Many students secure places at Russell Group universities, including Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial College London.
- GCSE Results:
- *Over 90% of grades were 9–7 (A–A equivalent)**.
- Consistently ranked among the top 100 grammar schools in England based on academic performance.
- Recognised for its excellence in STEM subjects, with a strong track record in mathematics, sciences, and computing.
🏆 Awards & Achievements
- Rated “Outstanding” by Ofsted, with high praise for student progress, teaching quality, and leadership opportunities.
- STEM Excellence – DHSG students regularly participate in UK Maths Challenges, Science Olympiads, and national computing competitions.
- Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Programme – Many students achieve Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards.
- Music & Performing Arts Success – The school has a strong tradition in orchestras, choirs, and drama productions.
- Sporting Achievements, with students competing at county and national levels in athletics, netball, and cross-country running.
- National Debating & Public Speaking Champions, with success in Model United Nations (MUN) and national essay competitions.
Devonport High School for Girls is a top-tier selective grammar school, offering exceptional academic results, strong university placements, and a wide range of extracurricular opportunities. With its rich history, modern facilities, and commitment to student success, DHSG provides an ideal learning environment for ambitious young women.
🏫 Devonport High School for Girls (DHSG)
Type: Selective State Grammar School for Girls (Co-educational in Sixth Form)
📍 Address:
Devonport High School for Girls
Lyndhurst Road
Peverell
Plymouth
Devon
PL2 3DL
United Kingdom
📞 Telephone: +44 (0)1752 705024
📧 Email: dhsg@dhsg.co.uk
🌐 Website: https://www.dhsg.co.uk
📝 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 Devonport High School for Girls (DHSG) 11+ Entrance Exam
Admission to Year 7 at Devonport High School for Girls (DHSG) 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 Devonport High School for Girls (DHSG) 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 Devonport High School for Girls (DHSG) 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 Devonport High School for Girls (DHSG) 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.
Devonport High School for Girls (DHSG) 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 Devonport High School for Girls (DHSG).
📌 Start preparing today with ExamTutor and set your child on the path to 11+ success! 🚀
Devonport High School for Girls (DHSG) – Year 7 Admissions Criteria and Application Process
Devonport High School for Girls (DHSG) is a highly selective grammar school in Plymouth, known for its academic excellence and strong extracurricular programs. Admission to Year 7 is based on performance in the 11 Plus entrance exam, which follows the GL Assessment format.
This guide outlines the admissions criteria, key dates, and application process for securing a place at DHSG.
Year 7 Admissions Criteria
To gain entry into Year 7 at Devonport High School for Girls, students must:
✔ Sit the 11 Plus entrance exam, which assesses English, Mathematics, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning.
✔ Achieve a high score in the test, as DHSG is an oversubscribed school.
✔ Meet the school’s admissions criteria, which prioritize students based on ranking in the 11 Plus exam and additional factors such as:
- Looked After or Previously Looked After Children (children in care).
- Children eligible for Pupil Premium (if they achieve the required score).
- Proximity to the school (distance may be considered in tie-break situations).
Note: DHSG is part of the Plymouth Grammar Schools Consortium, which means the same 11 Plus exam is used for multiple selective schools in the area.
The 11 Plus Entrance Exam Format
DHSG uses the GL Assessment 11 Plus Exam, which consists of the following:
📌 English & Maths Paper – Tests comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, arithmetic, and problem-solving.
📌 Verbal Reasoning Paper – Assesses logical thinking and understanding of language patterns.
📌 Non-Verbal & Spatial Reasoning Paper – Evaluates problem-solving using shapes, patterns, and sequences.
✔ The test is multiple-choice, and scores are standardised based on age.
How to Apply for Year 7 at DHSG
Step 1: Register for the 11 Plus Exam
- Registration opens in April/May of Year 5.
- Parents must complete a Test Registration Form via the Plymouth Local Authority website or the DHSG website.
- The deadline for registration is typically June or early July.
Step 2: Sit the 11 Plus Exam
- The 11 Plus test takes place in September of Year 6.
- The exam is held at designated test centres (usually at DHSG or another Plymouth grammar school).
- Results are sent to parents before the secondary school application deadline.
Step 3: Submit the Secondary School Application Form
- After receiving the 11 Plus results, parents must complete the Local Authority Common Application Form (CAF).
- The deadline for submitting the CAF is 31st October of Year 6.
- List DHSG as a preferred school to be considered for admission.
Step 4: Offer of a School Place
- Offers are sent out on 1st March (National Offer Day).
- If the school is oversubscribed, places are offered based on the admissions criteria.
- Parents can appeal if their child is not offered a place.
Key Dates for (Indicative Timeline)
📅 April – June: 11 Plus Registration Opens
📅 September: 11 Plus Exam at DHSG
📅 October: Secondary School Application Deadline (CAF Submission)
📅 March: National Offer Day – School Places Confirmed
Appeals Process
- If a child does not receive an offer, parents can submit an appeal to the Independent Appeals Panel.
- Appeals are usually heard between April and June after National Offer Day.
- A strong appeal includes academic evidence, extenuating circumstances, and supporting documents.
Final Tips for a Successful Application
✔ Prepare Early – Start preparing for the 11 Plus exam in Year 4 or Year 5.
✔ Use Practice Papers – ExamTutor 11 Plus Practice Papers with Video Explanations help students master exam techniques.
✔ Improve Time Management – The GL Assessment exam is time-pressured, so students must practice under timed conditions.
✔ Familiarise with the Format – Practice multiple-choice questions to build confidence.
✔ Consider a Mock Exam – Sitting a mock 11 Plus test can help students experience exam conditions.
Admission to Devonport High School for Girls (DHSG) is highly competitive, so early preparation and a strong 11 Plus performance are essential. By understanding the admissions process and using targeted practice materials, students can maximize their chances of success.
