Reigate Grammar School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Type: Independent co-educational day school
• Age Range: 11-18 years
• Location: Reigate, Surrey
• Founded: 1675
• Student Numbers: Approximately 1,084 pupils
• Headmaster: Mr Shaun Fenton
• Annual Fees: £22,530 - £22,995 per year
• Religious Character: All faiths welcome

About Reigate Grammar School

Reigate Grammar School stands amongst Surrey's most prestigious educational institutions, with nearly 350 years of academic excellence since its establishment in 1675. Located in the heart of Reigate, this distinguished co-educational day school has built an exceptional reputation for nurturing bright minds whilst maintaining the highest standards of pastoral care.

The school's impressive academic achievements speak for themselves, consistently ranking amongst the top co-educational day schools nationally for both GCSE and A-level results. With approximately 1,084 students, RGS maintains an optimal size that allows for personalised attention whilst offering extensive opportunities across academics, sport, and the arts.

What truly sets Reigate Grammar School apart is its commitment to developing well-rounded individuals who embody the school's core values of kindness, integrity, and excellence. The school's ethos centres on creating happy, healthy, and high-achieving students who are prepared for the challenges of modern life whilst maintaining strong moral foundations.

The school's location in Reigate provides an ideal setting, combining the benefits of a market town environment with excellent transport links to London. This prime Surrey location attracts families who value both academic excellence and the quality of life that the area provides.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Reigate Grammar School employs a comprehensive assessment process designed to identify pupils who will thrive in their academically rigorous environment. The 11+ entrance examination typically takes place in January and forms the cornerstone of the selection process.

Academic Assessment Components:

• Mathematics: Testing numerical reasoning, problem-solving abilities, and mathematical concepts appropriate for Year 6 level
• English: Evaluating reading comprehension, creative writing skills, and command of grammar and vocabulary
• Verbal Reasoning: Assessing logical thinking and language skills through word-based puzzles and patterns
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Testing spatial awareness and pattern recognition through visual puzzles

Beyond the written examinations, the school conducts interviews with shortlisted candidates. These conversations allow the admissions team to assess personal qualities, communication skills, and whether a child would flourish within the RGS community.

The school seeks pupils who demonstrate not only academic potential but also the character traits that align with their values. This holistic approach ensures that successful candidates will contribute positively to the school's vibrant community whilst benefiting from the exceptional educational opportunities available.

How to Apply

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

Step 1: Registration
Complete the online registration form available on the school's official website. Early registration is recommended as places for the entrance examination may be limited.

Step 2: Entrance Examination
Attend the entrance examination, typically held in January. Candidates will sit papers in Mathematics, English, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning.

Step 3: Interview Process
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview with senior members of staff. This provides an opportunity to discuss interests, aspirations, and demonstrate personal qualities.

Step 4: Offer and Acceptance
Successful candidates receive offers which must be accepted by the specified deadline, typically accompanied by a deposit payment.

Families are strongly advised to visit the school during one of their open events to experience the atmosphere and meet staff members. This provides valuable insight into whether RGS would be the right fit for their child's educational journey.

Preparing for the Reigate Grammar School 11+ with Taylor Tuition

Preparation for the Reigate Grammar School 11+ tends to go best when it starts early and stays steady, and most families who work with us begin between twelve and eighteen months out. Our tutors, who have prepared pupils for entry to leading independent and grammar schools including Westminster, St Paul's, Wycombe Abbey and Eton, plan the work backwards from the school's own assessment format and registration deadline.

The tutors we match to 11+ preparation are drawn from a pool in which more than half hold Qualified Teacher Status, around three in five hold a master's degree or doctorate, and which includes former heads of department, exam-board examiners and teachers from independent and boarding schools. Every tutor who works with children holds an enhanced DBS check.

Families in Surrey 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.