Key Information Summary
- School: Southend High School for Boys (SHSB)
- Location: Prittlewell Chase, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS0 0RG
- Type: Selective grammar school for boys, ages 11-18
- Students: Approximately 1,300 pupils (420+ in Sixth Form)
- Year 7 Places: 180 places available
- Ofsted Rating: Outstanding
- Academy Status: Academy since February 2011
- Admission: Via CSSE 11+ examination
About Southend High School for Boys
Established in 1895, Southend High School for Boys has built an exceptional reputation for academic excellence over more than a century. This selective grammar school consistently achieves outstanding results, with over 95% of students attaining five GCSEs at grades A*-C annually. As a member of the Consortium of Selective Schools in Essex (CSSE), SHSB maintains rigorous academic standards whilst fostering personal development and character building.
The school's commitment to excellence extends beyond academics, with a thriving house system that encourages leadership, teamwork, and healthy competition. SHSB's strong tradition of sport, music, and drama provides boys with comprehensive opportunities to develop their talents. The school's location in Southend-on-Sea offers excellent transport links whilst maintaining a focused learning environment away from London's distractions.
With over 420 students in the Sixth Form, SHSB demonstrates exceptional retention rates, reflecting both student satisfaction and the quality of A-Level provision. The school's robust alumni network and active parents' association create a supportive community that extends well beyond the school years.
The 11+ Assessment Process
Southend High School for Boys uses the CSSE 11+ examination, a rigorous two-paper assessment designed to identify the most academically able candidates. The examination comprises:
English Paper
- Reading comprehension passages testing analytical skills
- Creative writing component assessing expression and vocabulary
- Grammar and language skills evaluation
- Duration: Approximately 60 minutes
Mathematics Paper
- Key Stage 2 curriculum coverage with extension elements
- Problem-solving and reasoning questions
- Mental arithmetic and calculation skills
- Duration: Approximately 60 minutes
Each paper is scored out of 60 marks, creating a total possible score of 120. Results are standardised to account for variations between test sessions. Recent qualifying scores have been approximately 303 for local applicants and 342 for those outside the priority catchment area.
Priority Admissions
SHSB allocates up to 150 places based on proximity, prioritising students living within Southend-on-Sea postcodes (SS0-SS9). The remaining 30 places are available to the highest-scoring candidates regardless of location, making competition particularly intense for out-of-area applicants.
How to Apply
The application process for Southend High School for Boys follows a structured timeline that parents must adhere to strictly:
Registration Phase
- Registration Opens: Mid-May annually
- Registration Deadline: Late June
- Year 5 Open Evening: Usually scheduled for late June
Assessment Phase
- 11+ Examination Date: Third Saturday in September
- Results Release: Mid-October
- Appeals Deadline: Early November (if applicable)
Application Phase
- Secondary Application Deadline: 31st October
- School Allocation Day: 1st March
- Acceptance Deadline: Mid-March
Essential Requirements:
- Registration with CSSE for the 11+ examination
- Completion of local authority secondary school application
- Attendance at designated test centre on examination day
- Meeting minimum qualifying score thresholds
Note that achieving the qualifying score does not guarantee admission due to oversubscription. Places are allocated based on scores and proximity criteria.
How Taylor Tuition Can Help
Taylor Tuition's expertise in grammar school preparation has helped numerous families secure places at Southend High School for Boys. Our comprehensive approach addresses the specific requirements of the CSSE examination whilst building confidence and exam technique.
Targeted 11+ Preparation
- CSSE-Specific Training: Focused preparation using past papers and examination formats specific to the CSSE consortium
- English Excellence: Advanced reading comprehension strategies and creative writing development tailored to CSSE marking criteria
- Mathematical Mastery: Problem-solving techniques and reasoning skills that exceed Key Stage 2 requirements
- Timed Practise: Regular mock examinations under authentic conditions to build stamina and time management
Strategic Application Support
- Timeline Management: Comprehensive guidance through registration deadlines and application procedures
- School Selection Strategy: Expert advice on backup options and application ranking for maximum success
- Mock Interview Preparation: Although SHSB doesn't interview, we prepare students for confidence in all grammar school scenarios
- Results Analysis: Detailed feedback on practice papers with targeted improvement plans
Ongoing Academic Development
Our support extends beyond examination preparation to ensure students thrive at SHSB. We provide transition support, study skills development, and ongoing tutoring to maintain the high standards expected at this outstanding grammar school.
With Taylor Tuition's proven track record in grammar school admissions, families gain the confidence and expertise needed to navigate the competitive selection process successfully. Our personalised approach ensures each student is fully prepared to demonstrate their academic potential and secure their place at Southend High School for Boys.
Taylor Tuition
Educational Consultancy
Contributing expert insights on education, exam preparation, and effective learning strategies to help students reach their full potential.