St Olave's Grammar School Orpington 11+ Admissions Guide
Corey CrossIntroduction
St Olave's Grammar School, located in Orpington, Kent, is one of the UK's leading grammar schools, renowned for its academic excellence and competitive admissions process. Its rigorous 11+ entry procedure attracts top-performing students from across the region, making it a sought-after choice for families aiming for a high-quality education.
Key Facts
| Key Information | Details |
|---|---|
| School Type | Selective Grammar School |
| Location | Orpington, Kent |
| Age Range | 11-18 years |
| Ofsted Rating | Outstanding |
| Student Numbers | Approx. 1,100 |
Academic Performance
St Olave's consistently ranks among the top grammar schools in the UK for academic achievement. Recent GCSE results show a high proportion of students achieving grade 7-9, with an impressive number progressing to A-Levels and university study at top institutions. The school's Progress 8 score reflects its dedication to helping every student maximise their potential.
Admissions
11+ Entry
Admission to St Olave's at Year 7 is highly competitive and is based on performance in the 11+ entrance exams. The process involves:
- Registration: Parents must register their child for the exams, usually in the summer term of Year 5.
- Examination: The 11+ test includes verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, and mathematics.
- Results: Successful candidates are invited to proceed with the application process.
Key dates and further details can be found on the school's official website.
Selection Criteria
Selection is based solely on academic performance in the 11+ exams. The school does not prioritise catchment areas, making it accessible to applicants from outside the immediate Orpington region.
What Makes This School Special
St Olave's Grammar School stands out for its commitment to academic excellence and its nurturing environment. Unique features include:
- Specialist Subjects: Strengths in STEM, humanities, and languages.
- Facilities: Modern science labs, IT suites, and sports facilities.
- Enrichment Programmes: Opportunities for gifted and talented students to excel.
Student Life
Life at St Olave's is vibrant and diverse, with numerous extracurricular activities such as:
- Sports clubs including football, rugby, and cricket.
- Music and drama groups.
- Debating and public speaking competitions.
The pastoral care system ensures that every student feels supported, while the house system fosters a sense of community and friendly competition.
How to Prepare for Entry
Preparing for the 11+ exams requires dedication and focus. Here are some tips:
- Practice Regularly: Use past papers and timed exercises to build confidence.
- Focus on Weak Areas: Identify subjects or question types that need improvement.
- Stay Organised: Create a study timetable and stick to it.
- Exam Techniques: Teach your child to read questions carefully, manage time, and show working in maths problems.
For additional support, consider using RevisionGenie's AI tutors, which offer tailored practice for 11+ exams.
Practice Exercise
Try this sample 11+ maths question:
If a train travels 240 miles in 4 hours, what is its average speed?
Answer: 60 miles per hour.
How RevisionGenie Can Help
At RevisionGenie, we specialise in helping students prepare for exams with our advanced AI tutors. From mastering the 11+ entry tests to excelling in GCSE and A-Level lessons, our resources are designed to ensure success. Start your journey with us today!
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