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Sutton Grammar Schools – Selective Eligibility Test (SET) | 11+

11+

GL Assessment

Sutton Grammar Schools – Selective Eligibility Test (SET) | 11+

Age:11+

Table of Content

Sutton Grammar Schools – 11+ Practice Papers with Video Explanations

Grammar Schools Consortium | London Borough of Sutton | Selective State Schools | Ages 11–18


📚 History & Overview of the Sutton Grammar Schools and SET

The Sutton Grammar Schools are a group of highly selective, state-funded grammar schools located in the London Borough of Sutton. These schools jointly operate the Selective Eligibility Test (SET) as the first stage of their Year 7 admissions process.

The Sutton grammar schools are among the highest-performing state schools in the UK, with long histories dating back to the 19th century. They offer single-sex education in Years 7–11, and mixed Sixth Forms.

The SET was introduced to streamline the Year 7 admissions process, allowing applicants to sit a single entrance test for multiple schools within the borough.


📋 List of Sutton Grammar Schools Using the SET 

Boys’ Grammar Schools

  1. Sutton Grammar School

  2. Wallington County Grammar School (WCGS)

Girls’ Grammar Schools

  1. Nonsuch High School for Girls

  2. Wallington High School for Girls

  3. Greenshaw High School (Selective stream)

  4. Carshalton High School for Girls (Selective stream)

⚠️ Note: Greenshaw and Carshalton High School for Girls are partially selective — only a small percentage of their intake is based on SET performance.


👨‍🎓 Pupil Numbers & School Sizes (Typical)

School Type Approximate Pupils
Sutton Grammar School Boys ~950
Wallington County Grammar School Boys ~1,000
Nonsuch High School for Girls Girls ~1,250
Wallington High School for Girls Girls ~1,500
Greenshaw High School (selective stream) Co-ed ~1,400 (selective stream ~60)
Carshalton High School for Girls Girls ~1,100 (selective stream ~30)

🎓 Academic Reputation

Sutton grammar schools consistently rank among the top 100 state secondary schools in the UK.

✅ Academic Highlights:

  • Exceptional GCSE & A-Level results

  • Regularly send students to Oxbridge, Imperial, UCL, LSE, and top medical schools

  • Strong performance in:

    • STEM subjects

    • Languages and Humanities

    • Public speaking, debating, and creative arts

📊 Typical Academic Outcomes:

  • GCSEs:

    • 90–98% Grades 9–7 (A/A*)

  • A-Levels:

    • 70–85% A*–B grades

    • High UCAS point scores across all schools


🏆 Awards & Recognition

  • Ofsted Ratings: All Sutton grammar schools are rated Outstanding

  • Featured in:

    • The Sunday Times Parent Power List

    • The Good Schools Guide

  • National accolades in:

    • Maths and Physics Olympiads

    • UKMT Maths Challenges

    • Debating and Robotics Competitions

✏️ Year 7 Admissions Process – Sutton Grammar Schools


🧪 Step 1: Selective Eligibility Test (SET)

The SET is the first-stage test for all Sutton grammar schools.

📋 SET Format (GL Assessment-style):

  • English (Comprehension & Literacy Skills)

  • Mathematics (Numeracy & Problem Solving)

  • All multiple-choice format

  • Each paper lasts ~45 minutes

  • Standardised scores used to rank candidates

📅 SET Date (Entry):

  • Early September (Exact date released in spring)

Candidates who pass the SET may be invited to a second stage test, depending on the school applied to (see below).


🧪 Step 2: Second Stage Test (where applicable)

Second stage exams (used by the four main grammar schools only) typically include:

  • Extended English Writing

  • Maths (written answers)

Schools requiring second stage tests:

  • Sutton Grammar School

  • Wallington County Grammar School

  • Wallington High School for Girls

  • Nonsuch High School for Girls


📋 How to Apply – Step-by-Step

Stage Date
Register for SET May–June
SET Test Day Early September
SET Results Issued Late September
Second Stage Tests (if required) October
CAF (School Preferences) Deadline: 31 October
National Offer Day 1 March

📌 Registration Links for Each School


🧾 Admission Priorities (in Oversubscription)

  • Performance in SET and second stage test (where applicable)

  • Looked-after children

  • Pupil Premium / FSM eligibility

  • Siblings

  • Proximity to the school (some have defined catchments)

Each school publishes a cut-off score or rank number based on demand and performance.


💷 Fees

  • All Sutton Grammar Schools are state-fundedno tuition fees apply

  • Optional costs for:

    • Uniform, trips, music tuition, enrichment activities


📝 Summary Table

Feature Details
Test Name Selective Eligibility Test (SET)
Used By 6 Sutton schools (boys, girls, co-ed stream)
Test Format GL-style English & Maths (Multiple Choice)
Second Stage Tests Yes – for 4 fully selective grammar schools
Applications Open May
SET Test Date September
CAF Deadline 31 October
Offers Made 1 March

How to Use ExamTutor 11 Plus Practice Papers with Video Explanations to Achieve High Scores for Sutton Grammar Schools, in the 11+ Entrance Exam

Sutton Grammar Schools uses its Selective Eligibility Test (SET) 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 Sutton Grammar Schools 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 Sutton Grammar Schools 11+ Exam Preparation

1. Understand the Exam Format

📌 Haberdashers’ Monmouth Schools 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 Sutton Grammar Schools – 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 Sutton Grammar Schools 11+ Entrance Exam.

📌 Start practicing today to help your child achieve a top score and secure a place at Sutton Grammar Schools! 🚀

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