Altrincham Grammar School for Girls: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Type: Grammar School, Academy
• Age Range: 11-18
• Gender: Girls only
• Number of Pupils: 1,368
• Location: Cavendish Road, Bowdon, Altrincham, Cheshire WA14 2NL
• Local Authority: Trafford
• Telephone: 0161 912 5912
• Email: admin@aggs.bright-futures.co.uk
• Website: http://www.aggs.trafford.sch.uk/

About Altrincham Grammar School for Girls

Altrincham Grammar School for Girls (AGGS) has been nurturing young women's academic potential since 1910, establishing itself as one of England's largest and most successful single-sex grammar schools. With approximately 1,368 students aged 11-18, AGGS operates under the Bright Futures Educational Trust and serves the Greater Manchester area from its impressive campus in Bowdon.

The school's motto "Fortiter, Fideliter, Feliciter" - meaning "Bravely, Faithfully and Cheerfully" - encapsulates the institution's commitment to developing confident, capable young women. AGGS consistently achieves exceptional academic results, with students progressing to prestigious universities including Oxford, Cambridge, and leading Russell Group institutions.

Recent Ofsted inspection results awarded AGGS "Outstanding" across all categories, including quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth form provision. The school's modern facilities include state-of-the-art science laboratories, a contemporary library, and specialised learning spaces that support both academic excellence and extracurricular development.

AGGS particularly excels in STEM subjects, languages, and the humanities, offering an extensive curriculum that challenges and inspires students. The school's commitment to inclusivity is demonstrated through progressive policies and a supportive environment that celebrates diversity whilst maintaining high academic standards.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Entry to Altrincham Grammar School for Girls is highly competitive, with places awarded through the Trafford 11+ examination system. The assessment typically takes place in September of Year 6, with students competing for approximately 180 places in Year 7.

The Trafford 11+ examination consists of three papers:
• Mathematics: Testing numerical reasoning, problem-solving, and mathematical concepts
• English: Assessing reading comprehension, vocabulary, and language skills
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Evaluating logical thinking and pattern recognition

Students must achieve the required standard across all three papers to qualify for grammar school entry. The examination is designed to identify students who will thrive in AGGS's academically rigorous environment and benefit from the school's challenging curriculum.

AGGS operates within the Trafford coordinated admissions system, meaning successful candidates are allocated places based on their performance in the 11+ examination and their stated preferences. The school does not conduct additional entrance examinations or interviews for Year 7 entry.

How to Apply

The application process for AGGS follows the Trafford Local Authority admissions timeline and procedures. Parents must complete two separate applications:

Step 1: Register for the 11+ Examination
Registration typically opens in April and closes in June of Year 5. Parents must register their child directly with Trafford Local Authority for the 11+ examination, which takes place in September of Year 6.

Step 2: Complete the Secondary School Application
Submit your Common Application Form (CAF) to your home local authority by the national deadline (31st October). AGGS should be listed as one of your preferences, ranked according to your family's priorities.

Key Deadlines:
• 11+ Registration: June (Year 5)
• 11+ Examination: September (Year 6)
• Secondary School Application: 31st October (Year 6)
• Offers: 1st March (Year 6)

AGGS welcomes prospective families to attend their annual Open Evening, typically held in September, where parents and students can tour the facilities, meet staff, and gain insights into the school's academic programmes and pastoral care systems.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition's comprehensive 11+ preparation programme is specifically designed to help students excel in the Trafford grammar school selection process. Our experienced tutors understand the unique demands of the Trafford 11+ examination and have successfully prepared numerous students for entry to AGGS.

Our Specialised Support Includes:
• Diagnostic Assessment: Identifying your child's strengths and areas for development across all three 11+ papers
• Targeted Mathematics Tuition: Building confidence in numerical reasoning and advanced problem-solving techniques
• English Excellence Programme: Developing sophisticated reading comprehension and vocabulary skills essential for grammar school success
• Non-Verbal Reasoning Mastery: Systematic approach to pattern recognition and logical thinking exercises

Examination Preparation:
Our tutors provide extensive practice using authentic Trafford-style examination papers, ensuring students are familiar with the format, timing, and question types they will encounter. We focus on developing effective examination techniques and building the confidence necessary to perform at their best under pressure.

Ongoing Support:
Beyond academic preparation, we guide families through the entire admissions process, from registration deadlines to school selection strategies. Our personalised approach ensures each student receives the individual attention necessary to maximise their potential and secure their place at AGGS.

With Taylor Tuition's expert guidance, your daughter will be thoroughly prepared to demonstrate her academic abilities and join the exceptional community of learners at Altrincham Grammar School for Girls.