Bradford Grammar School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School: Bradford Grammar School (BGS)
• Location: Keighley Road, Bradford, West Yorkshire BD9 4JP
• Type: Co-educational independent day school
• Founded: 1548
• Age Range: 4-18 years (expanding to include Reception from September 2024)
• School Motto: Hoc Age (Just Do It)
• Contact: 01274 542492
• Entry Points: Year 7 (11+), with assessment required
• Scholarships: Academic merit scholarships and means-tested bursaries available

About Bradford Grammar School

Bradford Grammar School is one of West Yorkshire's most established independent schools, with a rich heritage dating back to 1548. Located on Keighley Road in Bradford, BGS has built an exceptional reputation for academic excellence whilst maintaining a strong commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals.

The school's distinctive ethos centres on the belief that happiness is fundamental to success. This philosophy permeates every aspect of school life, from the rigorous academic curriculum to the extensive co-curricular programme. BGS offers an environment where students are encouraged to explore their interests, develop their talents, and build confidence in a supportive community.

What sets Bradford Grammar School apart is its comprehensive approach to education. The school combines traditional academic rigour with innovative teaching methods, ensuring students receive a first-class education that prepares them for the challenges of modern life. The dedicated teaching staff are committed to inspiring each student to achieve their full potential across all areas of learning.

The school's facilities reflect its commitment to excellence, with modern classrooms, specialist laboratories, and outstanding sports facilities supporting both academic and co-curricular activities. BGS students benefit from small class sizes, allowing for personalised attention and tailored learning experiences.

Fees and key dates for 2026/27

Bradford Grammar School publishes day fees of £6,530 (Year 7 to 13, Senior School & Sixth Form) per term for 2026/27, and the figures above come from the school's own fees page as checked in September 2026. Registration for the next 11+ round closes on Friday 8 January 2027 (closing date for Year 7 Entrance Exam entries, for Sept 2027 entry). Assessment dates: Entrance exams: week commencing 18 January 2027 (closing date for entries: Friday 8 January 2027); Assisted Places assessment: 25 November 2026 (closing date: Monday 16 November 2026). Candidates sit entrance exams in Maths and English, with the exact assessment day advised after the closing date, followed by a Taster Day for successful candidates. Fees and dates change each year, so the school's website remains the reference for the current round.

The 11+ Assessment Process at Bradford Grammar School

Bradford Grammar School uses a comprehensive 11+ assessment to identify students who will thrive in their academic environment. The entrance examination is designed to evaluate students' potential rather than simply testing current knowledge, ensuring fair assessment for all candidates.

Assessment Components

The 11+ examination at BGS typically includes:

• English: Reading comprehension, creative writing, and language skills assessment
• Mathematics: Problem-solving, numerical reasoning, and mathematical concepts
• Verbal Reasoning: Logic, vocabulary, and analytical thinking using language
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Pattern recognition, spatial awareness, and logical thinking

The assessment is carefully structured to identify students who demonstrate the intellectual curiosity and academic potential to succeed at BGS. The school seeks candidates who show not only academic ability but also the motivation and character that align with the school's values.

Preparation Expectations

Bradford Grammar School expects candidates to demonstrate solid foundational skills in core subjects. The examination assesses understanding of key concepts typically covered in Years 5 and 6, with emphasis on applying knowledge to solve problems and think critically.

How to Apply to Bradford Grammar School

The application process for Year 7 entry at Bradford Grammar School is straightforward but requires careful attention to deadlines and requirements.

Application Timeline

• Registration: Applications typically open in the autumn term for the following September entry
• Assessment Date: 11+ examinations usually take place in January
• Results: Families are notified of outcomes by early February
• Acceptance: Places must be confirmed by the specified deadline

Application Requirements

Prospective families should submit their application through the school's online admissions system, which includes:

• Completed application form with student and family details
• School reports from current primary school
• Registration fee
• Any relevant additional information about the student's interests or circumstances

Financial Support

Bradford Grammar School is committed to making education accessible to talented students regardless of family circumstances. The school offers means-tested bursaries and academic scholarships based on merit. Families requiring financial assistance are encouraged to discuss options with the admissions team during the application process.

Preparing for the Bradford Grammar School 11+ with Taylor Tuition

Preparation for the Bradford Grammar School 11+ tends to go best when it starts early and stays steady, and most families who work with us begin between twelve and eighteen months out. Our tutors, who have prepared pupils for entry to leading independent and grammar schools including Westminster, St Paul's, Wycombe Abbey and Eton, plan the work backwards from the school's own assessment format and registration deadline.

The tutors we match to 11+ preparation are drawn from a pool in which more than half hold Qualified Teacher Status, around three in five hold a master's degree or doctorate, and which includes former heads of department, exam-board examiners and teachers from independent and boarding schools. Every tutor who works with children holds an enhanced DBS check.

Families in the North of England and further afield work with us online, and in person in central London. Fees start from £50 per 50-minute session and depend on tutor level and subject, with no registration fee and a free initial consultation to talk through your child's current level and the timeline to the 11+. Families receive progress reports after sessions and have a dedicated point of contact, and we reply to enquiries within one working day with tutor recommendations.

Read more about our 11+ entrance exam tutors, or send an enquiry and we will come back with tutor recommendations.