We are pleased to announce a pioneering new initiative to support children preparing for the 11+ entrance examination, becoming the first school in Torbay to offer a full practice examination ahead of the real test.
The practice examination will take place on Saturday 26 June 2027, giving girls considering an application to TGGS the opportunity to experience a realistic examination environment before sitting the actual 11+ assessment.
The initiative has been designed to help reduce anxiety and build confidence by allowing pupils to become familiar with exam conditions, timing, procedures and the overall experience of a formal assessment.
Headteacher Sarah Forster said:
"We know that for many children, the most challenging aspect of an examination is not necessarily the content, but the unfamiliar experience of sitting a formal test. This practice examination will allow girls to experience the process in a supportive environment, helping them approach the real examination with greater confidence and self-belief."
The examination will be held here and will mirror the format and conditions of the actual 11+ assessment as closely as possible. Papers will be marked and feedback provided to help families understand how their child is progressing.
A key feature of the initiative is our commitment to widening access and ensuring that financial circumstances do not become a barrier to participation.
All children who are eligible for Free School Meals will be able to take part completely free of charge.
For other families, the cost of the practice examination will be £50, which will contribute towards administration, staffing, resources and the marking of papers.
Mrs Forster added:
"Talent and potential exist in every community, and we want every girl to have the opportunity to demonstrate her abilities with confidence, regardless of background or circumstance. We are particularly proud that this practice examination will be free for all families in receipt of Free School Meals, ensuring that this valuable opportunity is accessible to those who may benefit from it most."
We hope the initiative will remove some of the uncertainty often associated with the 11+ process and provide practical support for families navigating grammar school admissions.
Applications for the practice examination are available here: Torquay Girls Grammar School - 11+ Practice Examination
We are excited to launch this new programme and believe the additional experience will help pupils across Torbay approach the real 11+ examination feeling more confident, prepared and ready to succeed.