Key Information Summary
- School: Parkstone Grammar School
- Location: Sopers Lane, Poole, Dorset, BH17 7EP
- Type: Selective state grammar school for girls
- Age Range: 11-18 years
- Students: Approximately 1,222
- Headteacher: Mr David Hallsworth
- Ofsted Rating: Outstanding (April 2024)
- Specialisms: Science and Modern Languages
About Parkstone Grammar School
Founded in 1905, Parkstone Grammar School has established itself as one of Dorset's premier educational institutions for young women. Located in the heart of Poole, this selective state grammar school combines over a century of educational excellence with modern teaching methods and facilities.
The school's dual specialisms in Science and Modern Languages, recognised since 2003 and 2008 respectively, reflect its commitment to preparing students for an increasingly globalised world. With approximately 1,222 students across Years 7-13, Parkstone Grammar maintains an intimate learning environment where each pupil receives personalised attention whilst benefiting from extensive resources typically associated with much larger institutions.
The school's Outstanding Ofsted rating, achieved in its most recent inspection in April 2024, underscores the exceptional quality of education provided. Students consistently achieve excellent GCSE and A-level results, with many progressing to Russell Group universities and competitive degree programmes.
Beyond academics, Parkstone Grammar offers an extensive co-curricular programme encompassing music, drama, sport, and numerous clubs and societies. This holistic approach ensures students develop not only intellectual capabilities but also confidence, leadership skills, and a genuine love of learning.
The 11+ Assessment Process
Parkstone Grammar School uses a two-part entrance examination designed to identify students with the academic potential to thrive in a selective environment. The assessment focuses on core reasoning abilities rather than curriculum-specific knowledge, ensuring fair evaluation regardless of primary school background.
Verbal Reasoning Component
This section evaluates students' ability to understand and manipulate language through:
- Comprehension exercises requiring careful analysis of texts
- Word relationships and vocabulary development
- Logical reasoning using verbal information
- Pattern recognition within written material
Mathematics Component
The mathematics assessment examines:
- Problem-solving skills using numerical information
- Understanding of mathematical concepts appropriate to Year 6 level
- Ability to apply mathematical knowledge to unfamiliar situations
- Logical thinking through mathematical reasoning
The examination typically takes place in September, with registration opening the preceding May. Given the school's popularity and oversubscribed status, thorough preparation is essential for success.
How to Apply
The application process for Parkstone Grammar School follows a structured timeline that families must observe carefully:
Step 1: Registration (May)
Parents must register their daughter for the entrance examination through the school's online portal. Registration typically opens in May for the following September's intake, with specific dates announced on the school website.
Step 2: Entrance Examination (September)
Registered candidates sit the two-part entrance test at the school premises. The examination usually takes place on a Saturday morning in September, approximately one year before intended entry.
Step 3: Local Authority Application
Concurrently with the school's process, families must submit their secondary school application through Poole Borough Council's coordinated admissions scheme, listing Parkstone Grammar as their preferred choice.
Step 4: Results and Offers
Test results are communicated to families, typically in October. Successful candidates receive conditional offers, with final confirmation dependent on maintaining academic standards during Year 6.
Given the highly competitive nature of admissions, families are strongly advised to include alternative school preferences in their local authority application.
How Taylor Tuition Can Help
Taylor Tuition's comprehensive 11+ preparation programme is specifically designed to maximise your daughter's chances of securing a place at Parkstone Grammar School. Our approach combines proven methodology with personalised instruction tailored to each student's learning style and academic needs.
Targeted Preparation Strategy
Our experienced tutors provide focused preparation in both verbal reasoning and mathematics components, using practice materials that mirror the specific style and difficulty level of Parkstone Grammar's entrance examination. We analyse past papers and examination trends to ensure our students are thoroughly prepared for the actual test format.
Comprehensive Skills Development
Beyond examination technique, we focus on developing the fundamental reasoning abilities that Parkstone Grammar seeks in its students. Our programme includes:
- Advanced problem-solving strategies for mathematical reasoning
- Sophisticated verbal reasoning techniques including comprehension analysis
- Time management skills essential for examination success
- Confidence-building exercises to manage examination pressure
Ongoing Assessment and Support
Regular mock examinations using authentic test conditions help students become familiar with the examination environment whilst identifying areas requiring additional focus. Our detailed progress reports keep families informed of their daughter's development and readiness for the actual examination.
With our deep understanding of grammar school expectations and proven track record of successful placements, Taylor Tuition provides the expert guidance necessary to navigate the competitive selection process at Parkstone Grammar School successfully.
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