Durham High School for Girls – 11+ Practice Papers with Video Explanations
Durham High School for Girls (DHSG) is a prestigious independent day school for girls aged 3 to 18, located in Durham City. With a rich history, strong Christian ethos, and a reputation for academic excellence, outstanding pastoral care, and personal development, it is one of the North East’s leading schools for girls.
🏛️ History of the School
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Founded: 1884
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Established by a group of local citizens as one of the earliest girls’ schools in the North of England
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Originally based in Durham city centre, the school moved in 1998 to its current modern, purpose-built campus on the outskirts of the city
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The school has a proud Anglican foundation and continues to promote Christian values, while welcoming girls of all faiths or none
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Over 140 years later, DHSG remains committed to providing outstanding all-girls education
👩🎓 Pupil Numbers
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Total pupils: Approximately 480–500
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Prep School (ages 3–11): ~150
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Senior School & Sixth Form (ages 11–18): ~330–350
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Pupils come from a wide catchment area including Durham, Newcastle, Sunderland, Teesside, and parts of North Yorkshire
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Day school only – no boarding provision
🎓 Academic Reputation
Durham High School is selective and has a strong academic track record, regularly appearing among the top-performing schools in the North East.
📈 Academic Highlights:
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GCSE Results:
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Around 70–80% of grades are 9–7 (A–A)*
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A-Level Results:
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Consistently over 60–70% of grades are A–B*
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Strong performance in:
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Sciences, Maths, English, History, Psychology, and Languages
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🎯 University Destinations:
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Leavers go on to top UK universities including:
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Oxford, Cambridge, Durham, Newcastle, Edinburgh, Leeds, and Manchester
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🏆 Awards & Recognition
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ISI Inspection:
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Rated “Excellent” in both:
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Academic Achievement
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Pupil Personal Development
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Consistently ranked as one of the best independent schools in the North East
🏫 Durham High School for Girls – Contact Information
School Name: Durham High School for Girls
Type: Independent Day School for Girls (Ages 3–18)
Religious Affiliation: Church of England
📍 Address:
Durham High School for Girls
Farewell Hall
South Road
Durham
DH1 3TB
United Kingdom
☎️ Telephone:
+44 (0)191 384 3226
📧 Email:
🌐 Website:
📱 Social Media:
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Instagram: @durhamhighschoolforgirls
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Facebook: Durham High School for Girls
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Twitter/X: @DurhamHighSch
📝 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 Durham High School for Girls, in the 11+ Entrance Exam
Durham High School for Girls 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 Durham High School for Girls 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 Durham High School for Girls 11+ Exam Preparation
1. Understand the Exam Format
📌Durham High School for Girls 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 Durham High School for Girls – 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 Durham High School for Girls 11+ Entrance Exam.
📌 Start practicing today to help your child achieve a top score and secure a place at Durham High School for Girls! 🚀
Durham High School for Girls – Year 7 Admissions Criteria & How to Apply
✅ Year 7 Admissions Criteria
Entry into Year 7 is selective and based on:
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Entrance Assessment
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Interview
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Reference from the current school
Durham High seeks girls who are academically able, enthusiastic learners, and will contribute positively to school life.
📝 1. Entrance Assessment
Applicants sit a written entrance assessment, usually in January of Year 6.
The assessment includes:
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English – Comprehension and a short written task
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Mathematics – Based on the Key Stage 2 curriculum
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Reasoning – Verbal reasoning (and possibly non-verbal)
The assessments are designed to gauge ability and potential, not just current attainment.
👩🏫 2. Interview
All candidates are invited for an informal interview with the Head or a senior member of staff.
The interview explores:
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Academic interests
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Hobbies and extracurricular activities
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Confidence, communication, and motivation
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Suitability for the school’s ethos and environment
📖 3. Reference from Current School
A confidential reference is requested from the applicant’s current school, which includes:
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Academic ability and progress
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Behaviour and attitude
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Social skills and contribution to school life
🎓 Scholarships & Bursaries
⭐ Scholarships (11+ Entry)
Scholarships are awarded based on outstanding ability and potential in:
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Academic subjects
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Music – Requires audition
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Sport – Requires trial or sporting achievements
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Drama or Art – Portfolio/audition for shortlisted candidates
Awards may carry fee remissions of up to 25%, depending on the category and applicant performance.
💰 Bursaries
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Means-tested bursaries are available for pupils who would benefit from a Durham High education but may not be able to afford full fees
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May cover up to 100% of tuition fees
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Applicants must submit a full financial assessment form with supporting documentation
Scholarships and bursaries may be combined, depending on circumstances.
📝 How to Apply for Year 7 at Durham High School for Girls
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Visit the School | Book a tour, attend an Open Day, or arrange a taster day 🔗 Visit DHSG |
| 2. Register | Complete the registration form and pay the £50 registration fee 🔗 Apply Now |
| 3. Entrance Assessment | Held in January for September |
| 4. Interview | Scheduled around the same time as the assessment |
| 5. Scholarships | Apply for scholarships; assessments typically in January–February |
| 6. Offer of Place | Offers made by February |
| 7. Acceptance | Offer confirmed with a deposit and completed acceptance paperwork |
