Bristol Grammar School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School: Bristol Grammar School (BGS)
• Location: University Road, Bristol, BS8 1SR
• Type: Independent day school
• Age Range: 4-18 years (coeducational)
• Headmaster: Mr Jaideep Barot
• Pupils: Approximately 1,389
• Fees: £5,795 per term
• Application Deadline: 5th January
• Entry Requirements: Entrance assessments in core subjects

About Bristol Grammar School

Bristol Grammar School has been nurturing academic excellence since its foundation in 1532, making it one of the oldest independent schools in the South West. Located in the heart of Bristol's academic quarter on University Road, BGS transformed from a traditional boys' school to a thriving coeducational institution in 1980.

The school's distinctive approach centres on developing intellectual curiosity and personal resilience across four carefully structured sections: Infant School (ages 4-6), Junior School (ages 6-11), Senior School (ages 11-16), and Sixth Form (ages 16-18). BGS prides itself on its close-knit community atmosphere, where pupils and staff form lasting relationships that extend well beyond the classroom.

The school's academic programme is designed to challenge and inspire, with particular strengths in STEM subjects, humanities, and creative arts. BGS pupils consistently achieve exceptional results, with the vast majority progressing to leading universities. The school's commitment to personalised learning ensures each pupil receives the support and challenge they need to maximise their potential.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Bristol Grammar School employs a comprehensive assessment process designed to identify pupils who will flourish in their academically rigorous environment. The entrance assessments evaluate candidates across multiple disciplines to ensure a thorough understanding of each applicant's capabilities.

Assessment Components:

• Mathematics: Problem-solving skills, numerical reasoning, and mathematical concepts appropriate to Year 6 level
• English: Reading comprehension, creative writing, and language skills demonstrating literacy proficiency
• Verbal Reasoning: Logical thinking, vocabulary knowledge, and ability to process verbal information
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Spatial awareness, pattern recognition, and abstract thinking skills

The assessments are carefully calibrated to identify pupils who demonstrate academic potential rather than simply rewarding intensive preparation. BGS seeks candidates who show genuine intellectual curiosity and the ability to think independently.

How to Apply

The application process for Year 7 entry at Bristol Grammar School follows a structured timeline that families should plan for well in advance:

Step 1: Application Submission
Complete and submit your application by the 5th January deadline. Late applications may be considered only in exceptional circumstances.

Step 2: Entrance Assessments
All candidates must participate in entrance assessments, typically scheduled for late January. These are held at the school and last approximately half a day.

Step 3: Bursary Applications
Families requiring financial assistance must submit bursary applications at least 10 days before the entrance assessments. BGS offers means-tested bursaries covering up to 100% of fees.

Step 4: Interview Process
Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews with senior staff members to assess their suitability for the BGS community.

Step 5: Offers and Confirmation
Successful candidates receive offers in early February, with places confirmed upon acceptance and deposit payment.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition's comprehensive 11+ preparation programme is specifically designed to help pupils excel in Bristol Grammar School's entrance assessments. Our expert tutors understand BGS's academic standards and assessment style, having successfully prepared numerous pupils for entry.

Our BGS-Focused Approach:

• Diagnostic Assessment: We begin with a thorough evaluation of your child's current abilities across all assessment areas
• Personalised Preparation: Tailored tuition programmes addressing individual strengths and areas for development
• Practise Papers: Extensive use of BGS-style questions and past paper materials to familiarise pupils with the assessment format
• Interview Preparation: Confidence-building sessions to help pupils articulate their thoughts clearly and demonstrate their intellectual curiosity
• Ongoing Support: Regular progress reviews and strategy adjustments to ensure optimal preparation

Our tutors are experienced professionals who understand the competitive landscape of Bristol's independent schools. We provide realistic assessments of your child's prospects whilst working intensively to maximise their potential for success.

Beyond academic preparation, we help families navigate the entire application process, from completing forms correctly to understanding bursary applications. Our goal is to ensure your child approaches their BGS assessment with confidence, well-prepared to demonstrate their true abilities.