St. Joseph’s College – 11+ Practice Papers with Video Explanations
St. Joseph’s College is a prestigious independent co-educational day and boarding school offering a broad, high-quality education for students from Nursery to Sixth Form (Ages 3–18). The school has a strong reputation for academic excellence, pastoral care, and extracurricular activities, ensuring students develop both academically and personally.
1. History & Background
- Founded in 1894, St. Joseph’s College was originally established as a Catholic boys’ school before becoming fully co-educational.
- The school has a rich tradition of academic achievement and character development, fostering values of respect, leadership, and personal growth.
- While rooted in Catholic traditions, the school is welcoming to students of all faiths and backgrounds.
- Over the years, the school has expanded, maintaining its commitment to academic excellence while embracing innovation in teaching and learning.
2. Pupil Numbers
- Approximately 600 students are enrolled across the school:
- Nursery & Prep School (Ages 3–11) – Around 200 pupils
- Senior School (Ages 11–16) – Around 300 pupils
- Sixth Form (Ages 16–18) – Around 100 pupils
- Small class sizes allow for personalised attention and strong teacher-student relationships.
3. Academic Reputation & Awards
St. Joseph’s College is recognised for its academic success, student progress, and extracurricular excellence.
📈 Exam Performance & ISI Rating
- The school offers GCSEs, A-Levels, and BTECs, producing consistently strong results.
- Many students progress to Russell Group universities, including Oxbridge, Imperial, and UCL.
- Rated “Excellent” by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) for both academic achievement and personal development.
🏆 Awards & Achievements
- Sporting Excellence – Strong teams in rugby, netball, football, and athletics, competing at regional and national levels.
- Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme – Many students complete the Bronze, Silver, and Gold awards.
- STEM & Science Recognition – Participation in UK Maths Challenges, Science Olympiads, and engineering competitions.
- Performing Arts Success – Regular performances in local, national, and international theatre and music events.
🏫 St Joseph’s College – Contact Information
School Name: St Joseph’s College
Type: Independent Co-educational Day and Boarding School (Ages 2–19)
📍 Address:
St Joseph’s College
Birkfield Drive
Ipswich
Suffolk
IP2 9DR
United Kingdom
☎️ Telephone:
+44 (0)1473 690281
📧 Email:
🌐 Website:
📱 Social Media:
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Twitter/X: @StJosIpswich
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Facebook: St Joseph’s College Ipswich
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Instagram: @stjosipswich
📝 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. Joseph’s College, in the 11+ Entrance Exam
St. Joseph’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. Joseph’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. Joseph’s College 11+ Exam Preparation
1. Understand the Exam Format
📌St. Joseph’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. Joseph’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. Joseph’s College 11+ Entrance Exam.
📌 Start practicing today to help your child achieve a top score and secure a place at St. Joseph’s College! 🚀
St. Joseph’s College – Year 7 Admissions Criteria & How to Apply
St. Joseph’s College is a highly regarded independent co-educational day and boarding school in Reading, Berkshire, offering a broad curriculum, strong pastoral care, and excellent extracurricular opportunities. Admission into Year 7 (11+ entry) is selective and based on entrance assessments, interviews, and school references.
1. Admissions Criteria for Year 7 (11+ Entry)
To secure a place at St. Joseph’s College, students must:
✔ Perform well in the entrance assessment, which evaluates English, Mathematics, and Verbal Reasoning.
✔ Attend an interview, where their academic ability, personal interests, and suitability for the school are assessed.
✔ Provide a school reference, detailing academic performance, behaviour, and character.
Day & Boarding Options
- St. Joseph’s College offers both day and boarding places at Year 7.
- Boarding options include full, weekly, and flexi-boarding.
- Limited places are available, making early application advisable.
2. How to Apply for Year 7 Admission
Step 1: Registration & Application
- Parents must complete an online application form via the St. Joseph’s College website.
- A non-refundable registration fee (typically around £100) is required.
- Application deadline: Usually in the autumn term of Year 6.
Step 2: Entrance Assessment
- The Year 7 entrance assessment takes place in November or January of Year 6.
- The exam consists of:
📌 English – Reading comprehension, grammar, and creative writing.
📌 Mathematics – Problem-solving, arithmetic, and numerical reasoning.
📌 Verbal Reasoning – Logical thinking, vocabulary, and pattern recognition.
Step 3: Interview & School Reference
- Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview with senior staff.
- The interview assesses:
📌 Academic potential and enthusiasm for learning.
📌 Personal interests, confidence, and communication skills.
📌 Suitability for St. Joseph’s College’s values and culture. - A confidential reference is requested from the applicant’s current school.
Step 4: Offer of a Place
- Admissions decisions are announced in February or March of Year 6.
- Parents must accept the offer and pay a deposit to confirm the place.
3. Key Dates for Year 7 Entry (Typical Timeline)
📅 September – October (Year 6) – Registration deadline.
📅 November – January (Year 6) – Entrance exam at St. Joseph’s College.
📅 January – February (Year 6) – Interviews and school reference checks.
📅 March – April (Year 6) – Offer letters sent and acceptance deadline.
📅 Summer Term (Year 6) – Induction and transition events for new students.
4. Scholarships & Bursaries
- Academic Scholarships – Awarded to top-performing candidates in the entrance exam.
- Sports Scholarships – Available for students excelling in rugby, hockey, football, netball, athletics, and swimming.
- Music & Performing Arts Scholarships – For students with exceptional musical or theatrical talent.
- STEM Scholarships – For students demonstrating outstanding ability in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.
- All-Rounder Scholarships – For students who show academic potential combined with strengths in sport, arts, or leadership.
- Bursaries – Means-tested financial support is available for families requiring assistance.
5. Additional Information
- School Fees: St. Joseph’s College charges annual tuition and boarding fees, with additional costs for extracurricular activities.
- Open Days & Taster Sessions: Families are encouraged to attend an open day to experience life at St. Joseph’s College.



