St. Bede’s College – 11+ Practice Papers with Video Explanations
1. History of the School
St. Bede’s College is a prestigious independent Catholic co-educational day school located in Manchester, England. It provides education for students aged 3 to 18, with a strong emphasis on academic excellence, faith-based values, and character development.
- Founded in 1876 by Bishop Herbert Vaughan, St. Bede’s was established to provide a high-quality Catholic education.
- The school has maintained its rich heritage while modernising its approach to education.
- Over the years, St. Bede’s has gained a reputation for its strong academic performance, outstanding pastoral care, and commitment to extracurricular excellence.
2. Pupil Numbers
- The school educates approximately 750 students across:
- Prep School (ages 3-11).
- Senior School (ages 11-16).
- Sixth Form (ages 16-18).
- Small class sizes ensure personalised learning and close teacher-student interaction.
3. Academic Achievements and Awards
St. Bede’s College is highly regarded for its academic success, with students consistently achieving strong GCSE and A-Level results.
📌 Outstanding GCSE and A-Level Performance
- Many students achieve grades 9-7 at GCSE and A-B at A-Level*.
- A large percentage progress to Russell Group universities, including Oxford, Cambridge, and top medical schools.
📌 STEM & Innovation Excellence
- The school has a strong science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) focus, with students regularly participating in national STEM competitions.
📌 National Recognition
- Rated “Excellent” by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) for both academic achievement and pastoral care.
- Recognised for outstanding extracurricular programmes, leadership development, and faith-based education.
🏫 St. Bede’s College – Contact Information
School Name: St. Bede’s College
Type: Independent Roman Catholic Co-educational Day School (Ages 3–18)
📍 Address:
St. Bede’s College
Alexandra Road South
Manchester
M16 8HX
United Kingdom
☎️ Telephone:
+44 (0)161 226 3323
📧 Email:
🌐 Website:
📱 Social Media:
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Twitter/X: @StBedesCollege
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Facebook: St. Bede’s College Manchester
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Instagram: @stbedescollege
📝 Exam Board: School’s own exam
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 St. Bede’s College, in the 11+ Entrance Exam
St. Bede’s College 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 St. Bede’s College 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 St. Bede’s College 11+ Exam Preparation
1. Understand the Exam Format
📌St. Bede’s College 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 St. Bede’s College – 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 St. Bede’s College 11+ Entrance Exam.
📌 Start practicing today to help your child achieve a top score and secure a place at St. Bede’s College! 🚀
St. Bede’s College – Year 7 Admissions Criteria & How to Apply
St. Bede’s College is a selective independent Catholic co-educational day school in Manchester, offering high-quality education for students aged 3-18. Entry into Year 7 (11+ entry) is competitive, with places awarded based on academic performance, school reference, and interview.
1. Admissions Criteria for Year 7 Entry
✔️ Entrance Examination Performance
- All applicants must sit the 11+ entrance exam, which includes:
- English – Reading comprehension and creative writing.
- Mathematics – Problem-solving, arithmetic, and numerical reasoning.
- Verbal Reasoning – Assessing logic, vocabulary, and pattern recognition.
✔️ School Reference
- A confidential reference from the applicant’s current school is required.
- The reference provides insight into academic progress, behaviour, and personal qualities.
✔️ Interview (Invitation Only)
- Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview with senior staff.
- The interview assesses critical thinking, communication skills, and suitability for St. Bede’s College’s academic and extracurricular environment.
✔️ Faith & Values (Catholic Ethos Consideration)
- While the school welcomes students of all backgrounds, a commitment to moral values and personal development is important.
✔️ Co-Curricular Interests & Personal Qualities
- The school values students who demonstrate talent in music, sport, drama, leadership, and other extracurricular activities.
2. How to Apply for Year 7 at St. Bede’s College
Step 1: Attend an Open Event (Recommended, Optional)
- Families are encouraged to attend an Open Day or arrange a private school tour.
- Open Events are typically held in September and October.
Step 2: Register for Admission
- Parents must complete the online registration form on the St. Bede’s College website.
- A non-refundable registration fee is required.
- The registration deadline is usually in early November of Year 6.
Step 3: Sit the Entrance Exam
- The 11+ entrance exam takes place in January at St. Bede’s College.
- The test includes English, Mathematics, and Verbal Reasoning assessments.
Step 4: Interview & School Reference Check
- Based on entrance exam performance, selected candidates are invited for an interview in January or February.
- A school reference from the current school is reviewed at this stage.
Step 5: Offer of a Place
- Offers are made in February.
- Parents must accept the offer by a set deadline (usually March) and pay a deposit to confirm their child’s place.
3. Scholarships and Bursaries
St. Bede’s College offers scholarships and means-tested bursaries for outstanding students:
🏆 Academic Scholarships – Awarded to top-performing students in the entrance exam.
🎼 Music Scholarships – Available for students demonstrating exceptional musical ability (audition required).
🎭 Drama Scholarships – Given to students with strong talent in theatre and performing arts.
⚽ Sports Scholarships – Awarded to students excelling in rugby, football, hockey, swimming, and athletics.
💷 Bursaries (Financial Assistance) – Means-tested bursaries are available for families who meet eligibility criteria.
4. Key Dates for Year 7 Admissions (Typical Timeline)
| Event | Typical Date |
|---|---|
| Open Days & Private Tours | September – October |
| Registration Deadline | Early November (Year 6) |
| Entrance Exam (11+) | January (Year 6) |
| Interviews & School Reference Checks | January – February (Year 6) |
| Offers Sent | February (Year 6) |
| Acceptance Deadline | March (Year 6) |
| New Student Induction Events | June – July |
| Start at St. Bede’s College | September (Year 7) |
St. Bede’s College’s Year 7 admissions process is selective yet welcoming, focusing on academic ability, faith-based values, and extracurricular potential. Early registration and thorough preparation are key to securing a place.
