Our Lady’s Abingdon School (OLA) – 11+ Practice Papers with Video Explanations
Independent Catholic Day School | Abingdon, Oxfordshire | Co-educational | Ages 7–18
Our Lady’s Abingdon (OLA) was founded in 1860 by the Sisters of Mercy, a Roman Catholic religious order committed to education, social justice, and service. The school was originally a girls’ convent school but has since evolved into a modern, co-educational independent day school that welcomes pupils of all faiths and backgrounds.
While maintaining its Catholic ethos, OLA is known for its inclusive and nurturing environment. It remains true to the values of the Sisters of Mercy: compassion, respect, and integrity.
OLA is now part of the Catholic Independent Schools’ Conference (CISC) and continues to grow in both size and reputation.
👨👩👧👦 Pupil Numbers & School Structure
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Total pupils: Approximately 350–400
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Age range: 7–18 (with Juniors from Year 3 onwards)
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Year 7 intake: Around 30–40 pupils, including internal and external applicants
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Sixth Form: ~70 students (Years 12–13)
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Class sizes: Small, typically 15–20 pupils, with even smaller groups at Sixth Form level
The school offers a close-knit, family-style environment where every child is known and supported.
🎓 Academic Reputation
OLA is academically non-selective but achieves excellent outcomes through its highly supportive and personalised teaching approach.
✅ Key Academic Strengths:
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Focus on individual progress rather than selection at entry
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High value-added scores – pupils often outperform expectations
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Strong results in core subjects (English, Maths, Science) and creative areas (Music, Art, Drama)
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Known for supporting pupils with a wide range of abilities, including SEND
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Dedicated Learning Support Department and Gifted & Talented enrichment programme
📊 Recent Exam Performance:
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GCSEs: Around 60–70% of grades at 9–6 (A–B)*
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A-Levels: Approx. 70%+ of grades at A–B*
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Sixth Form leavers progress to:
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Russell Group and top UK universities
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Degree apprenticeships and specialist colleges in music, art, and sport
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🏆 Awards & Recognition
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ISI Inspection: Rated “Excellent” in pupils’ personal development; good academic achievement
🏫 Our Lady’s Abingdon School (OLA) – Contact Information
School Name: Our Lady’s Abingdon School (OLA)
Type: Independent Catholic Co-educational Day School (Ages 7–18)
📍 Address:
Our Lady’s Abingdon School
Radley Road
Abingdon
Oxfordshire
OX14 3PS
United Kingdom
☎️ Telephone:
+44 (0)1235 524658
📧 Email:
🌐 Website:
📱 Social Media:
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Facebook: @OurLadysAbingdon
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Instagram: @ourladysabingdon
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Twitter/X: @OurLadysAbing
📝 Exam Board: CEM Select
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 Our Lady’s Abingdon School (OLA), in the 11+ Entrance Exam
Our Lady’s Abingdon School (OLA) uses CEM Select 11+ entrance test for admission to Year 7. To secure a place, students must perform well in the exam, which assesses 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 Our Lady’s Abingdon School (OLA) 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 Our Lady’s Abingdon School (OLA) 11+ Exam Preparation
1. Understand the Exam Format
📌 Our Lady’s Abingdon School (OLA) 11+ entrance test typically includes:
- 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 Our Lady’s Abingdon School (OLA) – 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 Our Lady’s Abingdon School (OLA) 11+ Entrance Exam.
📌 Start practicing today to help your child achieve a top score and secure a place at Our Lady’s Abingdon School (OLA)! 🚀
Our Lady’s Abingdon School – Year 7 Admissions Criteria & How to Apply
✅ Year 7 Admissions Criteria
Admission into Year 7 at OLA is selective, but accessible, with a focus on potential, attitude, and fit with the school’s ethos. The process includes:
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Entrance Assessment
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Interview
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School Report / Reference
📝 1. Entrance Assessment
Prospective Year 7 pupils sit an entrance exam in January of Year 6.
The assessment includes:
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English – Reading comprehension and creative writing
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Maths – Based on Key Stage 2 content
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Reasoning – Verbal reasoning or cognitive ability test (CEM or similar)
The assessments are age-appropriate, and designed to understand the child’s academic readiness and potential.
👩🏫 2. Interview
An informal interview with the Headteacher or Head of Admissions explores:
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The pupil’s interests, strengths, and attitude to learning
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Compatibility with the school’s values
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Any additional needs or talents
📖 3. Reference from Current School
The school will request a confidential reference, including:
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Academic progress
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Behaviour and social development
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Learning support needs, if any
🎓 Scholarships & Bursaries (11+ Entry)
⭐ Scholarships Available:
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Academic
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Music (audition required)
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Sport (assessment + record of achievement)
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Art & Drama (portfolio or audition)
Scholarships may offer fee reductions up to 25% and provide mentoring and enrichment opportunities.
💰 Bursaries:
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Means-tested bursaries may cover up to 100% of fees
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Parents must submit a detailed financial application
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Can be awarded in combination with scholarships
📅 Key Dates for Entry
| Event | Date (Indicative) |
|---|---|
| Open Morning | Autumn Term |
| Registration Deadline | November |
| Entrance Assessment Day | January |
| Scholarship Assessments | January–February |
| Offers Made | February |
| Acceptance Deadline | March (aligned with national dates) |
