🏫 Rathmore Grammar School – SEAG Practice Papers with Video Explanations
Catholic Voluntary Grammar School | Co-educational | Belfast, Northern Ireland | Ages 11–18
📚 History of Rathmore Grammar School
Rathmore Grammar School was founded in 1973 by the Society of the Holy Child Jesus, a Catholic religious order committed to education based on the principles of faith, compassion, and academic excellence. The school is located in Finaghy, South Belfast, and has developed into one of the leading grammar schools in Northern Ireland.
Originally a girls’ school, it became co-educational in 2003 and now offers high-quality education to both boys and girls. The school’s ethos is shaped by its motto, “Ut Vitam Habeant” (That they may have life), reflecting its commitment to nurturing the full potential of every student.
👨🎓 Pupil Numbers & School Structure
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Total Pupils: ~1,250
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Year 8 Intake: ~180 students
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Sixth Form: ~350+ students
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Gender: Co-educational
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Age Range: 11–18
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School Type: Catholic Voluntary Grammar School
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Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic (welcoming students of all faiths)
🎓 Academic Reputation
Rathmore Grammar School is consistently ranked among the top grammar schools in Northern Ireland. It is renowned for its academic performance, pastoral care, and extra-curricular provision.
✅ Academic Strengths:
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Excellence across Sciences, Mathematics, English, Languages, and the Arts
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Strong support for students applying to Medicine, Law, Engineering, and Oxbridge
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High levels of progression to Queen’s University Belfast, Trinity College Dublin, and Russell Group universities
📊 Academic Results:
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GCSEs:
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~100% achieve 7+ GCSEs at grades A–C*, including English and Maths
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~90%+ of grades at A–A*
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A-Levels:
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~85–90% of grades at A–B*
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Strong track record of university admissions, including highly competitive courses
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🏆 Awards & Recognition
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Frequently ranked in the Top 10 Grammar Schools in NI
🏫 Rathmore Grammar School – Contact Information
School Name: Rathmore Grammar School
Type: Catholic Co-educational Voluntary Grammar School (Ages 11–18)
Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland
📍 Address:
Rathmore Grammar School
Kingsway
Finaghy
Belfast
BT10 0LF
Northern Ireland
United Kingdom
☎️ Telephone:
+44 (0)28 9030 1232
📧 Email:
info@rathmoregrammarschool.org
🌐 Website:
https://www.rathmoregrammarschool.org
📱 Social Media:
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Facebook: Rathmore Grammar School
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Twitter/X: @RathmoreGS
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Instagram: @rathmoregs
You can view the school’s location on the map below:
SEAG Score Needed to get into Rathmore Grammar School
Below is historical scores for Rathmore Grammar School from 2023 to 2014.
2023 Lowest Score – PPTC/GL – 234
2022 Lowest Grade – PPTC/GL – 243
2021 N/A
2020 Lowest Grade – PPTC/GL – 234
2019 Lowest Grade – PPTC/GL – 234
2018 Lowest Grade – PPTC/GL – 234
2017 Lowest Grade – PPTC/GL – 234
2016 Lowest Grade – PPTC/GL – 234
2015 Lowest Grade – PPTC/GL – 234
2014 Lowest Grade – PPTC/GL – 229
As you can see from the above stats and 234 in PPTC/GL in most years will have got you into Rathmore Grammar School. The highest score needed was 243 in 2022.
A 243 score in old PPTC/GL test is equivalent to 216 in new SEAG test so based on past intake a minimum score of 216+ in SEAG test would give your child a very high chance of getting accepted into Rathmore Grammar School.
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 Rathmore Grammar School
Preparing for the SEAG Transfer Test effectively is crucial to securing a place at highly competitive grammar schools like Rathmore Grammar School. 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.
Rathmore Grammar School 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 Rathmore Grammar School.
Why Choose ExamTutor 11+ Practice Papers for Rathmore Grammar School 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 Rathmore Grammar School 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 (Subject to Annual Review)
If more applicants than available places (~180), the school uses the following selection criteria:
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Applicants with valid SEAG scores, ranked by score
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Baptised Catholic children
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Siblings of current/former pupils
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Children of staff or past pupils
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Pupils from named Catholic feeder primary schools
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Geographical proximity to the school (tie-breaker)
✅ Special Circumstances (e.g. illness, bereavement, SEN) and Special Provisions (e.g. relocation to NI) are considered if supported by evidence.
📅 Admissions Timeline
| Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| SEAG Registration Opens | May |
| SEAG Registration Closes | September |
| SEAG Test Dates | November (2 Saturdays) |
| Results Sent to Parents | January |
| EA Application Portal Opens | Late January |
| Application Deadline | February |
| Offers Announced | March |
SEAG Exam Information for Rathmore Grammar School
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. Our Lady’s Grammar School is a SEAG School. Rathmore Grammar School 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 Rathmore Grammar School
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:
Rathmore Grammar School will initially consider only those applicants who have taken the SEAG Entrance Assessment and who have been awarded a band or assigned a band pursuant to the application of the Special Circumstances or Special Provisions procedures and will admit pupils based on the band achieved and the Total Standardised Score, TSAS, in the assessment or otherwise awarded.
Rathmore Grammar School will give preference to those pupils for whom a band/TSAS relating to the SEAG Entrance Assessment method has been awarded by SEAG or assigned by the Board of Governors pursuant to the Special Circumstances/Special Provisions procedures.
1) Groups of Applicants with a Band 1: Applicants who, at the date of their application, have a child of the family currently or previously enrolled at the School; (Name and year of present pupil and name and dates of attendance of past pupil must be given.)
2) Applicants whose parent is a member of the permanent staff of the School
3) Applicants who are the eldest* child of the family to have achieved a band 1 or the only child of the family to have achieved a band 1 and have no siblings who achieved a grade A in the GL transfer or, whose brother or sister is an eldest child who achieved a grade A in the GL transfer and applied to the School but was not selected. (Certificate of Verification must be provided.)
4) If oversubscribed in Criterion (iii) applicants will be selected by rank order according to the combined standardised age score attained in the SEAG Assessment tests, the highest scoring applicant being ranked first, the next highest candidate being ranked second etc. Applicants will be admitted in rank order up to the maximum order of the school’s admissions number (180).
5) Where 2 or more applicants have an identical combined standardised age score and their position in the rank order means that there are insufficient places to admit all of them, priority will be given to.
6) Applicants who are not allocated to any of the groups (i) to (iii) above.
7) If oversubscribed in Criterion (iv) applicants will be selected by rank order according to the combined standardised age score attained in the SEAG Assessment tests, the highest scoring applicant being ranked first, the next highest candidate being ranked second etc. Applicants will be admitted in rank order up to the maximum order of the school’s admissions number (180).
8) Where 2 or more applicants have an identical combined standardised age score and their position in the rank order means that there are insufficient places to admit all of them they will be ranked for acceptance on the basis of points (a) and (b) as above.
(a) applicants in receipt of Free School Meals Entitlement at the time of application.
(b) the remaining applicants will be ranked for acceptance on the basis of a computer–based process which will make use of the names of applicants as shown on their online Transfer Application.
Visit Rathmore Grammar School website for a more detailed Admissions Policy document – https://www.rathmoregrammarschool.org
