Spalding High School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Type: Girls' grammar school (mixed sixth form)
• Age Range: 11-18 years
• Location: Matmore Gate, Spalding, Lincolnshire, PE11 2PJ
• Headteacher: Mrs M K Anderson
• Entry Requirements: 11+ examination
• Contact: 01775 722110 | enquiries@spaldinghigh.lincs.sch.uk
• Ofsted Rating: Outstanding

About Spalding High School

Spalding High School has established itself as one of Lincolnshire's premier educational institutions, consistently delivering exceptional academic outcomes for girls aged 11-18. Located in the historic market town of Spalding, the school combines rigorous academic standards with a nurturing environment that enables each student to flourish both personally and intellectually.

As a selective grammar school, Spalding High attracts academically gifted students from across Lincolnshire and surrounding counties. The school's commitment to excellence extends beyond traditional academic subjects, encompassing a rich programme of extracurricular activities, leadership opportunities, and community engagement initiatives. With a mixed sixth form that welcomes both boys and girls, the school provides a supportive transition environment for students preparing for university and future careers.

The school's ethos centres on developing confident, articulate young women who are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in an increasingly competitive global landscape. Under the leadership of Mrs M K Anderson, Spalding High continues to build upon its outstanding reputation, consistently achieving examination results that place it amongst the top-performing schools in the region.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Entry to Spalding High School requires candidates to demonstrate their academic potential through the 11+ examination, a comprehensive assessment designed to identify students who will thrive in a grammar school environment. The examination process is carefully structured to evaluate key cognitive abilities and academic readiness.

Assessment Components

The 11+ examination at Spalding High School encompasses four critical areas:

• Mathematics: Testing numerical reasoning, problem-solving capabilities, and application of mathematical concepts appropriate for Year 6 students
• English: Assessing reading comprehension, vocabulary knowledge, grammar understanding, and written expression skills
• Verbal Reasoning: Evaluating ability to understand, analyse, and manipulate written information through logical thinking
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Testing spatial awareness, pattern recognition, and logical problem-solving using visual and diagrammatic questions

The examination is designed to assess academic potential rather than curriculum knowledge, ensuring that students from diverse educational backgrounds can demonstrate their capabilities. Successful candidates must achieve the required standard across all components to secure admission.

How to Apply

The application process for Spalding High School follows Lincolnshire County Council's coordinated admissions scheme for grammar school places. Parents must submit their application through the local authority's online portal by the specified deadline, typically in October for the following September entry.

Application Timeline

• Registration Period: Applications open in September for Year 7 entry the following academic year
• Application Deadline: Usually late October (specific dates confirmed annually)
• 11+ Examination: Typically conducted in November
• Results Notification: December/January
• Offer Confirmation: March (National Offer Day)

Oversubscription Criteria

Should the school receive more applications from qualified candidates than available places, the following criteria apply in order of priority:

1. Students with siblings currently attending the school
2. Distance from the school (measured by straight-line distance from home to school)

Parents are strongly encouraged to attend the school's open events and information evenings to gain comprehensive understanding of the school's expectations, facilities, and academic programmes before applying.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition's expertise in grammar school preparation makes us the ideal partner for families aspiring to secure a place at Spalding High School. Our comprehensive understanding of the 11+ examination process, combined with our track record of successful placements at prestigious grammar schools, ensures your daughter receives the focused preparation necessary for success.

Tailored Preparation Programme

Our tutors provide personalised instruction across all four components of the 11+ examination, with particular emphasis on:

• Developing strong mathematical reasoning and problem-solving techniques
• Enhancing reading comprehension and analytical writing skills
• Mastering verbal and non-verbal reasoning strategies
• Building confidence through timed practice sessions and mock examinations

Strategic Application Support

Beyond academic preparation, Taylor Tuition offers invaluable guidance throughout the application process. We assist families in understanding Spalding High School's specific requirements, optimising application timing, and preparing for the transition to grammar school education. Our consultants work closely with parents to develop realistic expectations whilst maximising their daughter's potential for success.

With our deep knowledge of Lincolnshire's grammar school landscape and established relationships within the educational community, Taylor Tuition provides the strategic advantage that discerning families require when pursuing admission to Spalding High School.