The Abbey School 11+ Practice Papers and Answers

The Abbey School – 11+ Practice Papers with Video Explanations

🕰️ History:

Founded: 1887
Founding Context: Originally established by the Church Schools Company as a girls’ school with Christian values.
Over the years, The Abbey has grown into one of the UK’s leading independent girls’ schools, maintaining strong traditions while embracing innovation in education.
The school moved to its current site on Kendrick Road in 1905, with additional buildings and modern facilities added over time, including a performing arts centre, STEM labs, and sports facilities.

👩‍🎓 Pupil Numbers:

Total Enrollment: Approximately 1,000 students
- Junior School: Ages 3–11
- Senior School & Sixth Form: Ages 11–18

🎓 Academic Reputation:

Consistently ranked among the top independent girls’ schools in the UK for academic performance.
Offers a broad curriculum with a focus on empowering girls in STEM, humanities, arts, and languages.
Sixth Form: Offers both A Levels and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme.
- IB Average Score (recent years): Consistently above the global average, often over 37 points, placing students in top percentiles globally.
Students regularly progress to Oxbridge, Russell Group universities, and elite international institutions.
Emphasizes independent thinking, global citizenship, and leadership.

🏆 Awards & Recognition:

Sunday Times Top Schools Guide: Regularly features in the top rankings for academic achievement.
ISA Award-Winning School: Recognised for innovation and excellence in areas like wellbeing, digital learning, and extracurricular provision.
Eco-School Status: Recognised for its sustainability and environmental initiatives.
Wellbeing & Pastoral Care: Praised by ISI (Independent Schools Inspectorate) for excellent support systems.

💬 Inspection Reports:

ISI Report: Most recent reports rate the school as “Excellent” in all categories – including academic achievement and personal development.

🏫 The Abbey School – Contact Information

School Name: The Abbey School, Reading
Type: Independent Day School for Girls (Ages 3–18)

📍 Address:

The Abbey School
17 Kendrick Road
Reading
Berkshire
RG1 5DZ
United Kingdom

☎️ Telephone:

+44 (0)118 931 3111

📝 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 The Abbey School in the 11+ Entrance Exam

The Abbey School 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 The Abbey School 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 The Abbey School 11+ Exam Preparation

1. Understand the Exam Format

📌The Abbey School 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 The Abbey School – 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 The Abbey School 11+ Entrance Exam.

📌 Start practicing today to help your child achieve a top score and secure a place at The Abbey School! 🚀

The Abbey School – Year 7 Admissions Criteria & How to Apply

The Abbey School is a prestigious independent school for girls in Reading, known for its academic excellence, strong pastoral care, and wide-ranging extracurricular activities. It has a highly selective admissions process, and students must perform well in the entrance exam, interview, and school reference assessment to secure a place in Year 7 (11+ entry).

This guide outlines the Year 7 admissions criteria and explains how to apply.

Year 7 Admissions Criteria

To gain admission to The Abbey School for Year 7, students must meet the following criteria:

1. Entrance Examination

All applicants must sit the 11+ entrance exam, which assesses:

📌 English – Reading comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, and creative writing.
📌 Mathematics – Arithmetic, problem-solving, algebra, and numerical reasoning.
📌 Reasoning Tests – Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning to assess logical thinking and problem-solving ability.

The exam is designed to assess both ability and potential to ensure students are well-suited to the school’s academic environment.

2. Interview

Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview with senior staff, which evaluates:
✔ Communication skills and confidence
✔ Enthusiasm for learning and academic curiosity
✔ Problem-solving abilities
✔ Personal interests and extracurricular involvement

The interview helps the school identify students who will thrive in The Abbey’s academically challenging and well-rounded environment.

3. School Reference

The Abbey School will request a confidential reference from the candidate’s current school, covering:
✅ Academic performance and ability
✅ Behaviour, attitude, and work ethic
✅ Contribution to school life and extracurricular activities

4. Scholarships & Bursaries

Academic Scholarships are awarded to students with outstanding performance in the entrance exam and interview.
Means-tested bursaries are available for families who require financial assistance.

How to Apply for Year 7 Admission

The application process follows a structured timeline, so it’s important to apply on time and prepare in advance.

Step 1: Register Your Child

📅 Deadline: Typically in October of the year before entry.

Complete the online registration form on the Abbey School website.
Pay the non-refundable registration fee.

Step 2: Attend an Open Event (Optional but Recommended)

The Abbey School hosts Open Mornings and Taster Days for prospective students and parents.
These events provide insights into the curriculum, school life, and extracurricular activities.

Step 3: Entrance Examination

📅 Exam Date: Typically in November or December.

Candidates take tests in English, Mathematics, and Reasoning.
Preparation using past papers and timed exercises is recommended.

Step 4: Interview & School Reference

📅 December – January

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview with senior staff.
The school will request a reference from the candidate’s current school.

Step 5: Offer Letters Sent

📅 January – February

Successful candidates will receive an offer letter.
Parents must accept the offer and pay a deposit to secure the place.

Step 6: Transition & Induction

📅 Summer Term (before joining in September)

The school provides orientation and transition events for new students.
This helps students adjust to the school environment and meet their future classmates.

Key Dates to Remember

📌 Registration Deadline: October (Year before entry)
📌 Entrance Exam: November/December
📌 Interviews & School References: December – January
📌 Offer Letters Sent: January – February
📌 Acceptance Deadline: March

(Exact dates may vary, so always check the Abbey School admissions page for the latest updates.)

Final Tips for a Successful Application

✔ Prepare for the entrance exam early – Use practice papers and reasoning exercises to improve performance.
✔ Encourage reading and writing practice – Strong literacy skills are essential for the English and reasoning sections.
✔ Practice interview skills – Confidence, enthusiasm, and clear communication are key.
✔ Highlight extracurricular activities – The school looks for well-rounded students.
✔ Attend open events – Gain insights into the school environment and ethos.

Admission to The Abbey School Year 7 is highly competitive, but with early preparation, strong academic performance, and a well-rounded application, your child can maximize their chances of success.

For the most up-to-date information and to apply, visit the official Abbey School website.

The Abbey School | 11+

11+

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