Devonport High School for Girls: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School: Devonport High School for Girls (DHSG)
• Type: Selective girls' state grammar school with academy status
• Age Range: 11-18 years
• Location: Lyndhurst Road, Peverell, Plymouth, Devon, PL2 3DL
• Founded: 1908
• Specialisation: Languages College
• Entrance: 11+ examination in English and Mathematics
• Contact: 01752 705024 | dhsg@dhsg.co.uk

About Devonport High School for Girls

Devonport High School for Girls has earned recognition as one of Plymouth's most academically successful institutions since its establishment in 1908. This selective girls' grammar school combines rigorous academic standards with specialist language provision, creating an environment where intellectual curiosity flourishes.

The school's house system - comprising Flete, Kitley, Hartland, Saltram, and Edgecumbe - fosters community spirit whilst encouraging healthy competition. Each house draws its name from Devon's historic estates, reflecting the school's deep connection to local heritage. Students benefit from this structure through inter-house competitions, pastoral support, and leadership opportunities that extend well beyond academic achievement.

As a specialist Languages College, DHSG offers extensive modern foreign language provision alongside classical languages. This specialisation enhances students' global perspective and cultural awareness, preparing them for international opportunities in higher education and beyond. The school's commitment to linguistic excellence permeates the curriculum, with many students achieving exceptional results in language qualifications.

Academic performance remains consistently outstanding, with DHSG regularly achieving some of the highest GCSE and A-level results in the South West. The school's selective intake ensures students are surrounded by like-minded peers who share their academic ambitions and intellectual curiosity.

The 11+ Assessment Process

DHSG employs a two-part 11+ examination designed to identify students with the academic potential to thrive in their demanding environment. The assessment focuses on fundamental skills whilst identifying intellectual aptitude and learning potential.

English Comprehension

The English component evaluates:

• Reading comprehension across various text types
• Vocabulary knowledge and contextual understanding
• Inference and analytical thinking skills
• Written expression and communication clarity

Mathematics

The mathematics section assesses:

• Numerical reasoning and problem-solving abilities
• Understanding of mathematical concepts appropriate to Year 6 level
• Logical thinking and pattern recognition
• Application of mathematical knowledge to unfamiliar situations

The examination typically takes place in late September or early October, with results determining eligibility for admission. Students achieving the required standard progress to the application stage through Devon County Council's coordinated admissions process.

How to Apply

The application process for DHSG follows a structured timeline that families must navigate carefully:

Registration Phase

Registration for the 11+ examination typically opens in early spring for September entry the following year. Parents must register their daughter through the school's official website, providing essential personal and educational details. Early registration is strongly advised as examination places are allocated on a first-come basis.

Examination Stage

Registered candidates sit the 11+ examination at DHSG in autumn. The school provides detailed guidance on examination day procedures, including timing, permitted materials, and venue arrangements. Results are typically communicated within four weeks of the examination date.

Formal Application

Successful candidates must then submit a formal application through Devon County Council's online admissions portal by the specified deadline, usually in late October. This application ranks DHSG alongside other preferred schools and triggers the coordinated admissions process.

Offer Communication

National Offer Day in March brings confirmation of secondary school places. Successful applicants receive their offers through the local authority system, with places allocated based on examination performance and the school's published admission criteria.

Preparing for the Devonport High School for Girls 11+ with Taylor Tuition

The Devonport High School for Girls 11+ rewards steady preparation over a year or so, with the last term given to timed practice and interview confidence. Having prepared pupils for entry to leading independent and grammar schools, with placements including Westminster, St Paul's, Wycombe Abbey and Eton, our tutors match the programme to the school's assessment format and to where the child is starting from.

Because the pool includes former heads of department, exam-board examiners and teachers from independent and boarding schools, and more than half of our tutors hold Qualified Teacher Status, families get a tutor who understands what the assessors are looking for. Every tutor who works with children holds an enhanced DBS check.

Families in the South and South West 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.