Pate's Grammar School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School: Pate's Grammar School
• Location: Princess Elizabeth Way, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL51 0HG
• Type: Mixed Grammar School (Academy Status)
• Age Range: 11-18 years
• Headteacher: Dr James Richardson
• Pupils: Approximately 1,251 students
• Founded: 1574
• Entrance Test: Gloucestershire Grammar Schools entrance examination

About Pate's Grammar School

Established in 1574, Pate's Grammar School is amongst England's oldest educational institutions, celebrating over 450 years of academic excellence in Cheltenham. This distinguished mixed grammar school has built an exceptional reputation for nurturing intellectual curiosity whilst maintaining the highest academic standards.

The school's historic foundation by Richard Pate, a London goldsmith, created an enduring legacy of educational excellence that continues to attract families from across Gloucestershire and beyond. Pate's distinctive approach combines rigorous academic pursuit with comprehensive personal development, preparing students for leadership roles in their chosen fields.

Located in the heart of Cheltenham's educational quarter, the school benefits from purpose-built facilities that support both traditional academic subjects and innovative programmes. The school's commitment to British values and educational heritage creates an environment where students develop both intellectual rigour and strong character.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Pate's Grammar School participates in the Gloucestershire Grammar Schools entrance examination, administered by GL Assessment. This comprehensive assessment evaluates students across four key areas:

• Verbal Reasoning: Language comprehension, vocabulary knowledge, and logical reasoning using words
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Spatial awareness, pattern recognition, and logical thinking through visual puzzles
• Mathematics: Numerical reasoning, problem-solving abilities, and mathematical concepts
• English Comprehension: Reading skills, textual analysis, and written communication

The examination typically takes place in mid-September, with students requiring qualifying scores across all sections to be considered for admission. The assessment is designed to identify pupils who will thrive in Pate's academically demanding environment.

How to Apply

The application process for Year 7 entry at Pate's Grammar School follows the coordinated Gloucestershire Grammar Schools system:

Step 1: Registration
Register for the entrance examination during the registration period (typically May to late June). Early registration is essential as places for the test are limited.

Step 2: Entrance Examination
Attend the GL Assessment entrance test in mid-September at designated examination centres across Gloucestershire.

Step 3: School Application
Include Pate's Grammar School as a preference on your child's secondary school application form, submitted to your local authority by 31st October.

Step 4: Results and Allocation
Results are typically released in early March, with successful candidates receiving offers through the local authority coordination process.

Appeals Process
Parents have the right to appeal unsuccessful applications based on specific grounds, including extenuating circumstances that may have affected test performance.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Our specialists understand the unique demands of Pate's Grammar School's entrance requirements and the competitive nature of Gloucestershire's grammar school system. We provide targeted preparation that maximises your child's potential for success.

Comprehensive 11+ Preparation
Our expert tutors deliver personalised programmes covering all assessment areas, with particular focus on the GL Assessment format used by Gloucestershire grammar schools. We ensure students develop both technical skills and examination confidence.

Strategic Application Guidance
We provide detailed guidance on the application timeline, helping families navigate registration deadlines and submission requirements. Our advisors ensure you understand the appeals process and alternative options.

School-Specific Preparation
Drawing on our extensive experience with Pate's Grammar School admissions, we tailor preparation to reflect the school's academic expectations and assessment style. Our approach develops the intellectual curiosity and academic rigour that Pate's values.

Ongoing Academic Support
For successful applicants, we offer continued support to ensure smooth transition into Pate's demanding academic environment, helping students maintain the excellence that secured their place.