🏫 Hunterhouse College – SEAG Practice Papers with Video Explanations
Voluntary Grammar School | Girls | South Belfast, Northern Ireland | Ages 11–18
📚 History of Hunterhouse College
Hunterhouse College was established in 1987 through the amalgamation of two well-established schools in Belfast:
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Ashleigh House School
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Princess Gardens School
It is named in honour of Anna and Margaret Hunter, pioneers in girls’ education and social progress in Northern Ireland.
Located on a large, leafy site on Upper Lisburn Road, the school is a non-denominational, all-girls voluntary grammar school with a strong academic reputation and a warm, inclusive ethos. It serves students from South Belfast, Lisburn, and surrounding areas.
Hunterhouse College promotes values of respect, inclusion, academic excellence, and female empowerment.
👨🎓 Pupil Numbers & School Structure
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Total Pupils: ~650
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Year 8 Intake: ~100 pupils
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Sixth Form: ~180 students
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Gender: Girls only
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Age Range: 11–18
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School Type: Voluntary Grammar School
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Religious Affiliation: Non-denominational (inclusive Christian ethos)
🎓 Academic Reputation
Hunterhouse College has a strong academic tradition and is particularly well-regarded for its pastoral care, inclusive approach, and balanced education. It offers a broad curriculum and prides itself on supporting girls of all abilities to achieve their potential.
✅ Academic Strengths:
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Particularly strong in English, Humanities, Science, and Languages
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Excellent careers education and guidance
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Good support for university applications, including Medicine, Arts, and STEM courses
📊 Academic Performance:
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GCSEs:
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~95–98% of students achieve 5+ GCSEs at grades A–C*, including English and Maths
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~80–85% of grades typically at A–B*
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A-Levels:
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~85–90% of A-Level grades at A–C*
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Many students go on to Queen’s University Belfast, Ulster University, and Russell Group institutions
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🏆 Awards & Recognition
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Praised in ETI inspections for:
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High-quality teaching
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Strong leadership and management
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Excellent pupil-teacher relationships and wellbeing
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Success in:
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Young Enterprise NI
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UK Maths Challenge
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Science fairs and innovation competitions
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School choir competitions and drama festivals
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Active participation in:
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Eco-Schools Programme
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Community outreach, peace-building projects, and international exchange partnerships
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🏫 Hunterhouse College – Contact Information
School Name: Hunterhouse College
Type: All-Girls Voluntary Grammar School (Co-educational in Sixth Form, Ages 11–18)
Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland
📍 Address:
Hunterhouse College
Finaghy
Belfast
BT10 0LE
Northern Ireland
United Kingdom
☎️ Telephone:
+44 (0)28 9061 2293
📧 Email:
info@hunterhouse.belfast.ni.sch.uk
🌐 Website:
https://www.hunterhousecollege.org.uk
📱 Social Media:
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Facebook: Hunterhouse College
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Twitter/X: @HunterhouseC
SEAG Score Needed to get into Hunterhouse College
Below is historical scores for Hunterhouse College from 2022 to 2014.
2022 Lowest Grade – AQE – 88-93 and PPTC/GL – 214-220
2021 N/A
2020 Lowest Grade – AQE – 94-98 and PPTC/GL – 220-225
2019 Lowest Grade – AQE – 94-98 and PPTC/GL – 220-225
2018 Lowest Grade – AQE – 94, PPTC/GL -221
2017 Lowest Grade – AQE – 88, PPTC/GL – 214
2016 Lowest Grade – AQE – 88, PPTC/GL – 214
2015 Lowest Grade – AQE – 88, PPTC/GL – 214
2014 Lowest Grade – AQE – 88, PPTC/GL – 214
As you can see from the above stats 220 in PPTC\GL test and 98 in AQE test in most years will have got you into Hunterhouse College. The highest score needed was 225 in most years for PPTC/GL & 98 for AQE for most years.
A 220 score in old PPTC\GL test is equivalent to 185 in new SEAG test, an AQE score of 98 is equivalent to 191 in new SEAG test so based on past intake a minimum score of 191+ in SEAG test would give your child a very high chance of getting accepted into Hunterhouse College.
SEAG Comparison with historical AQE and PPTC outcomes:
| Approx PPTC / GL Equivalent SAS | SEAG TSAS | Approx AQE Equivalent SAS | SEAG Band | SEAG Cohort Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 282 | 282 | 130 | 1 | 100 |
| 258 | 236 | 1 | 90 | |
| 249 | 224 | 113 | 1 | 80 |
| 242 | 215 | 109 | 1 | 70 |
| 236 | 207 | 106 | 1 | 60* |
| 231 | 200 | 103 | 2 | 50* |
| 226 | 193 | 99 | 3 | 40* |
| 220 | 185 | 94 | 4 | 30* |
| 214 | 175 | 88 | 5 | 20* |
| 200 | <175 | 6 | <20 |
*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.
| Minimum PPTC /GL SAS needed for Grade | PPTC/ GL Grade | Approx Equivalent SEAG TSAS |
|---|---|---|
| 234 | A | 206 |
| 229 | B1 | 197 |
| 224 | B2 | 190 |
| 219 | C1 | 183 |
| 213 | C2 | 174 |
| <213 | D | <174 |
How to Use ExamTutor SEAG Transfer Test Practice Papers (with Video Explanations) to Achieve High Scores for Hunterhouse College
Preparing for the SEAG Transfer Test effectively is crucial to securing a place at highly competitive grammar schools like Hunterhouse College. 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.
Hunterhouse College 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 Hunterhouse College.
Why Choose ExamTutor 11+ Practice Papers for Hunterhouse College 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 Hunterhouse College 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 more applicants than places are received (~100 places), the following priority criteria apply:
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SEAG test result – ranked by score
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Siblings of current or former pupils
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Children of staff or former pupils
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Pupils attending contributory or partner primary schools
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Geographical proximity to the school (used as a final tie-breaker)
✅ Special Circumstances and Provisions (e.g. illness, SEN, bereavement, relocation) will be taken into account with supporting documentation.
📅 Admissions Timeline
| Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| SEAG Registration Opens | May |
| SEAG Registration Closes | September |
| SEAG Test Dates | November (2 Saturdays) |
| Results Issued to Parents | January |
| EA Application Portal Opens | Late January |
| Application Deadline | February |
| School Offers Issued | March |
SEAG Information for ‘Hunterhouse College’.
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. Hunterhouse College is a SEAG School. Hunterhouse College 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 Hunterhouse College
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:
Hunterhouse College will consider the outcome of a pupil’s performance in the Schools’ Entrance Assessment Group (‘SEAG’) Entrance Assessment. The College will not use as a criterion the position of preference given to the College as shown on the Transfer Application; for example, a child who has chosen the College in any position on the Transfer Application will be considered in the same way as all first preference applicants.
1) The Board of Governors will use the ‘Total Standardised Age Score’ (TSAS) as awarded by SEAG to the pupil in the SEAG Entrance Assessment. Places in Year 8 will be allocated in strict rank order of TSAS scores, starting with the highest TSAS score, up to the approved Admission Number of 100.
2) In the event of there being more than one applicant for the last remaining place(s) because they have equal TSAS scores or should any further place(s) remain to be filled, the criteria below will apply in the order shown:
3) Girls who, at the date of their application, have a child of the family1 currently enrolled or accepted for admission at the College (details to be supplied).
4) Girls who, at the date of their application, have a child of the family1 who attended Hunterhouse College.
5) Girls who, at the date of their application, are the eldest girl2 of the family to be eligible to transfer to a mainstream post-primary school.
6) If applicants are still tied after this, then priority will be determined amongst them by a method of computer-generated random selection.
Visit Hunterhouse College website for a more detailed Admissions Policy document – https://hunterhousecollege.org.uk
SEAG Products for Hunterhouse College
Our practice Test Papers, Online Bootcamps, Live Tutor Bootcamps and Mock exams can give your child the edge over the competition for the SEAG exam, while also boosting their confidence which is an often overlooked issue. Our SEAG Practice Test Papers will allow your child to become more familiar with the test questions and to better understand the key topics being tested. Our SEAG Boot Camps will allow your child to master the key topics and our Mock Exams will give your child valuable exam experience.
