Calday Grange Grammar School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Type: Boys' grammar school (ages 11-18) with co-educational sixth form
• Location: West Kirby, Wirral, Merseyside
• Founded: 1636 - oldest surviving grammar school on the Wirral peninsula
• Pupils: 1,492 boys with 398 in co-educational sixth form
• Headteacher: Mr Stephen Gray
• Ofsted Rating: Good (September 2019)
• Admission: Academically selective via 11+ examination

About Calday Grange Grammar School

Calday Grange Grammar School occupies a unique position in British education as the Wirral peninsula's oldest surviving grammar school, with nearly four centuries of educational excellence since its founding in 1636. Located on the scenic Caldy Hill in West Kirby, this boys' grammar school has evolved thoughtfully whilst maintaining its core mission of providing rigorous academic education.

The school's transformation to include a co-educational sixth form in 1985 demonstrates its commitment to adapting to modern educational needs whilst preserving its distinctive character. With 1,492 pupils, including 398 in the sixth form, Calday Grange maintains an environment where academic achievement flourishes alongside personal development.

The school's location provides both historical significance and practical advantages, with purpose-built facilities complemented by additional sports grounds nearby. This combination of heritage and modern resources creates an environment where tradition meets contemporary educational excellence.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Calday Grange Grammar School's 11+ examination serves as the primary gateway for admission, designed to identify students with strong academic potential across core subjects. The assessment typically evaluates:

• English: Reading comprehension, vocabulary development, and written expression
• Mathematics: Problem-solving abilities, numerical reasoning, and logical thinking
• Verbal Reasoning: Language-based puzzles and analytical skills
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Visual pattern recognition and spatial awareness

The school considers the 11+ results alongside students' previous academic records, extracurricular involvement, and potential contribution to the school community. This holistic approach ensures that successful candidates not only demonstrate academic ability but also show readiness to engage with the school's broader educational programme.

Performance standards reflect the school's commitment to academic excellence, with successful candidates typically demonstrating consistent achievement across all assessment areas.

How to Apply

The application process for Calday Grange Grammar School follows a structured timeline:

• Initial Registration: Complete application forms by the specified deadline
• 11+ Examination: Attend the scheduled assessment session
• Supporting Documentation: Submit academic records and references
• School Visits: Attend open days to understand the school environment
• Results and Offers: Receive notification of assessment outcomes

Families are strongly encouraged to attend the school's open events, which provide valuable insights into daily life at Calday Grange and allow prospective students to experience the school's atmosphere firsthand. The admissions team provides comprehensive guidance throughout the process, ensuring families understand each stage and requirement.

Early engagement with the school's admissions process allows families to prepare effectively and demonstrates genuine interest in joining the Calday Grange community.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition's expertise in Wirral grammar school admissions proves invaluable for families targeting Calday Grange Grammar School. Our comprehensive preparation programme addresses the school's specific requirements:

• Targeted 11+ Preparation: Focused practice on the assessment format and content areas
• Academic Foundation Building: Strengthening core skills in English and mathematics
• Reasoning Skills Development: Systematic training in verbal and non-verbal reasoning
• Mock Examination Practise: Realistic assessment conditions to build confidence
• Application Strategy: Guidance on presenting your child's achievements effectively

Our tutors understand Calday Grange's academic expectations and can provide personalised preparation that maximises your child's potential. We work closely with families to develop study schedules that complement existing schoolwork whilst ensuring thorough preparation for the 11+ examination.

With extensive experience supporting successful applications to Wirral's selective schools, Taylor Tuition provides the expert guidance needed to navigate this competitive process with confidence.