Sir William Borlase School (11+) Practice Papers and Answers

Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School: 11+ Practice Papers with Video Explanations

Located in the historic town of Marlow, Buckinghamshire, Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School is one of the most prestigious and high-performing grammar schools in the UK. Established in the early 17th century, the school has a long tradition of academic excellence, impressive facilities, and a commitment to nurturing well-rounded students through its diverse curriculum and extracurricular opportunities. This article explores the school’s history, pupil numbers, state-of-the-art facilities, and its many accolades.

History of Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School

Founding and Early Years

Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School was founded in 1624 by Sir William Borlase, a wealthy landowner and Member of Parliament. The school was established in memory of Borlase’s late son, Henry Borlase, and originally provided education in Latin and classical studies to the sons of local families. Its aim was to promote academic learning and equip students with the skills required for future professions in the church, government, and law.

The original school building was located in the heart of Marlow, and while the school has expanded significantly over the centuries, it remains a cherished part of the local community and a beacon of academic excellence in Buckinghamshire.

Key Historical Milestones

1624: The school was founded with an endowment from Sir William Borlase.
19th Century: The school expanded its curriculum to include mathematics, science, and modern languages, reflecting the changing demands of education.
1987: The school became co-educational, admitting both boys and girls.
2011: Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School converted to Academy status, giving it greater independence and funding flexibility.
2024: The school will celebrate its 400th anniversary, a testament to its enduring legacy.

Pupil Numbers and Admissions

Student Enrollment

Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School currently has approximately 1,200 students, including around 350 students in the Sixth Form.

Co-Educational Environment

The school is proudly co-educational, offering boys and girls equal opportunities to excel academically, socially, and creatively.

Admissions

Year 7 Entry: Students are admitted to Year 7 based on their performance in the 11+ entrance exam, which is part of the Buckinghamshire Grammar Schools system.
Sixth Form Entry: Admission to the Sixth Form requires students to meet specific GCSE grade criteria, with places offered to both current students and external applicants.
The school serves students from Marlow and the surrounding areas, although students from outside the catchment area may also be admitted if places are available.

Awards and Recognition

Academic Excellence

Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School is consistently ranked among the top grammar schools in the UK, achieving excellent results in GCSEs and A-levels.

Over 85% of GCSE students achieve grades 9–7 (A*/A equivalent).
Sixth Form students regularly secure places at Oxbridge, Russell Group universities, and prestigious international institutions.

Performing Arts Awards

The school’s drama and music programs have won multiple awards, including regional and national recognition in theatre competitions and music festivals.
Students perform regularly at prestigious venues, such as the Royal Albert Hall and local theatres.

Sports Achievements

The school’s rowing teams are among the best in the country, regularly competing at the Henley Royal Regatta and other high-profile events.
Success in rugby, hockey, netball, and athletics at regional and national levels.

Ofsted Rating

Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School has consistently been rated “Outstanding” by Ofsted.

Other Accolades

Recognized as a leader in STEM education, with students excelling in the UKMT Maths Challenge and Science Olympiads.
Winner of the Eco-Schools Green Flag Award for its commitment to environmental sustainability.

You can view school location on the map below:

🏫 Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School – Contact Information

School Name: Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School (SWBGS)
Type: Co-educational Grammar School
Headteacher: Dr. Peter Holding

📍 Address:

Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School
West Street
Marlow
Buckinghamshire
SL7 2BR
United Kingdom

☎️ Telephone:

+44 (0)1628 816500

📝 Exam Board: GL Assessment

How to Use ExamTutor 11 Plus Practice Papers with Video Explanations to Achieve High Scores for Sir William Borlase School 11+ Entrance Exam

Admission to Year 7 at Sir William Borlase School 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 Sir William Borlase School 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 Sir William Borlase School 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 Sir William Borlase School 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.

Sir William Borlase School 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 Sir William Borlase School.

📌 Start preparing today with ExamTutor and set your child on the path to 11+ success! 🚀

You can check out this video to get a better overall look at the school:

Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School Year 7 Admissions:

Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School, located in Marlow, Buckinghamshire, is one of the region’s most prestigious grammar schools. Admission to Year 7 is highly competitive and requires success in the 11+ entrance exam, which is part of the Buckinghamshire Grammar Schools system. This guide provides a detailed explanation of the admissions process, eligibility criteria, and tips to help your child successfully gain a place in Year 7 at Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School.

Overview of Year 7 Admissions

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for Year 7 admission:

Age Requirement:
- Students must be aged 11 on or before 31st August in the year they start Year 7.
- For September 2025 entry, children must have been born between 1st September 2013 and 31st August 2014.
Academic Selection:
- Admission is determined by performance in the 11+ entrance exam. Students must achieve a standardized qualifying score of 121 or higher to be considered for admission.
Catchment Area:
- The school gives priority to students living within its designated catchment area, which covers Marlow and surrounding villages. However, students from outside the catchment area may also be admitted if places are available.
- Use the Catchment Area Checker on the Buckinghamshire Council website to confirm eligibility.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Year 7 at Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School

Step 1: Register for the 11+ Entrance Exam

The 11+ exam, administered by GL Assessment, is the first step in the application process.

Who Needs to Register?

Automatic Registration: If your child attends a Buckinghamshire primary school, they are automatically registered for the 11+ exam.
Manual Registration: If your child attends a school outside of Buckinghamshire, you must register them for the test yourself.

Registration Window

Registration typically opens in May and closes in June of the year before your child starts Year 7.

How to Register

Visit the Buckinghamshire Grammar Schools (TBGS) website and complete the online registration form for the 11+ exam.

Step 2: Prepare for the 11+ Exam

The 11+ test assesses a child’s abilities across verbal reasoning, English, mathematics, and non-verbal reasoning.

Exam Format

Paper 1: Verbal reasoning and English comprehension.
Paper 2: Mathematics and non-verbal reasoning.
Time Limit: Each paper lasts approximately 45 minutes.
Question Type: Multiple-choice format.

Qualifying Score

A standardized score of 121 or higher is required to qualify for admission.

Tips for Preparing

Use GL Assessment-style practice papers to build familiarity with the exam format.
Focus on verbal reasoning, reading comprehension, and problem-solving skills.
Encourage timed practice to improve speed and accuracy.
Take mock tests to simulate real exam conditions.
Consider resources like ExamTutor.co.uk, which provides practice papers with video explanations for every question.

Step 3: Take the 11+ Exam

Key Dates

Practice Test: A practice test is administered a few days before the actual 11+ exam to familiarise students with the format.
Exam Date: The 11+ exam is held in early September of Year 6.

Results Notification

Parents will be notified of their child’s 11+ exam results in mid-October, indicating whether they have achieved the qualifying score of 121 or higher.

Step 4: Submit the Secondary School Application (CAF)

After receiving your child’s 11+ results, you must submit the Common Application Form (CAF) through your local authority to list your preferred schools.

Key Details

Deadline: The CAF must be submitted by 31st October in the year before your child starts Year 7.
How to Apply:
- Buckinghamshire residents should apply via the Buckinghamshire Council online portal.
- Residents outside Buckinghamshire must apply through their local council and include Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School as a preference.
Preference Order: List Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School as your first choice if it is your preferred school.

Step 5: National Offer Day

On 1st March (National Offer Day), parents will be notified of the school their child has been offered a place at. Notifications are sent via email or letter by the local authority.

If Your Child is Offered a Place

Accept the place by the specified deadline (usually mid-March).

If Your Child Does Not Receive an Offer

Waiting List: If the school is oversubscribed, your child may be placed on the waiting list if they meet the qualifying score.
Appeals Process: You have the right to appeal the decision if your child is not offered a place.

Oversubscription Criteria

If the number of qualifying students exceeds the number of available places, the school allocates places based on the following criteria:

Looked-After or Previously Looked-After Children (LAC).
Students living within the designated catchment area.
Siblings: Children with a sibling currently attending Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School.
Proximity to the School: Distance from the school, measured in a straight line.

Special Considerations

Pupil Premium Priority

Children eligible for Pupil Premium funding may receive additional consideration during the admissions process.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

Reasonable adjustments are made for children with recognized SEN to ensure they have equal opportunities in the 11+ exam. Parents should notify the admissions team in advance if their child requires accommodations.

Tips for Success in the Admissions Process

Start Early: Begin preparing for the 11+ exam at least 12 months in advance.
Use High-Quality Resources: Invest in GL Assessment-style practice papers from platforms like ExamTutor.co.uk, which offer video explanations for every question.
Practice Regularly: Dedicate consistent time each week to studying verbal reasoning, English, mathematics, and non-verbal reasoning.
Take Mock Exams: Simulate exam conditions to help your child build confidence and improve time management.
Attend Open Events: Visit Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School during open days to learn more about the school’s ethos and facilities.

The admissions process for Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School is competitive but achievable with the right preparation and guidance. By registering for the 11+ exam, practicing consistently, and submitting your application on time, you can help your child secure a place at this outstanding grammar school.

Sir William Borlase School | 11+

11+

GL Assessment