Stockport Grammar School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• Founded: 1487 by Sir Edmund Shaa
• Type: Independent co-educational day school
• Ages: 3-18 years
• Location: Buxton Road, Stockport, Cheshire, SK2 7AF
• Head: Mrs. Sarah Capewell
• Students: Approximately 1,116 pupils
• Day Fees: £4,757 per term
• Religious Affiliation: Non-denominational
• Contact: +44 (0)161 456 9000

About Stockport Grammar School

Stockport Grammar School represents over 500 years of educational excellence in the heart of Cheshire. As one of the oldest schools in Northern England, the school has evolved from its Tudor origins into a modern, forward-thinking educational establishment that serves families throughout Greater Manchester and beyond.

The school's extensive facilities span across its historic campus, combining traditional architecture with state-of-the-art learning environments. With a balanced co-educational community of over 1,100 pupils, Stockport Grammar fosters an atmosphere where academic rigour meets personal development. The school's commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals is evident through its comprehensive curriculum and extensive extracurricular programme.

Under the leadership of Mrs. Sarah Capewell, the school maintains its reputation for academic excellence whilst embracing innovation in teaching and learning. The school's ethos centres on developing confident, articulate, and compassionate young people who are prepared to make meaningful contributions to society.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Stockport Grammar School's 11+ entrance examination takes place annually in January for September entry into Year 7. The assessment process is designed to identify pupils who will thrive in the school's academically challenging environment.

Assessment Components

• English: Comprehensive assessment including reading comprehension, creative writing, and language skills
• Mathematics: Problem-solving, numerical reasoning, and mathematical concepts appropriate to Year 6 level
• Verbal Reasoning: Logical thinking, vocabulary, and analytical skills

Examination Format

The entrance examination is conducted on the school premises, providing candidates with the opportunity to experience the academic environment. Each component is carefully timed and structured to allow pupils to demonstrate their abilities effectively. The school ensures that all candidates receive clear instructions and support throughout the assessment day.

Preparation for the examination should focus on developing strong foundational skills in literacy and numeracy, alongside regular practice with verbal reasoning questions. The school recommends that candidates maintain their usual academic routine whilst ensuring they are well-rested and confident on examination day.

How to Apply

Application Timeline

Applications for Year 7 entry typically open in the September of the preceding academic year. Early registration is strongly advised as places are highly sought after.

Application Process

1. Initial Registration: Complete the online application form through the school's website
2. School Visit: Attend one of the regular open days or arrange a private tour
3. Document Submission: Provide recent school reports, references, and any relevant supporting documentation
4. Assessment Day: Attend the 11+ entrance examination in January
5. Interview Process: Selected candidates may be invited for an interview with senior staff
6. Offer Notification: Successful applicants receive offers shortly after the assessment process

Required Documentation

• Completed application form
• Most recent school report
• Head teacher's reference
• Birth certificate copy
• Passport photograph

Financial Support

Stockport Grammar School is committed to ensuring that talented pupils can access the education regardless of financial circumstances. The school offers both academic scholarships and means-tested bursaries for new entrants and existing pupils. Scholarship opportunities are available across various disciplines including academics, music, art, drama, and sport.

Preparing for the Stockport Grammar School 11+ with Taylor Tuition

The Stockport Grammar School 11+ rewards steady preparation over a year or so, with the last term given to timed practice and interview confidence. Having prepared pupils for entry to leading independent and grammar schools, with placements including Westminster, St Paul's, Wycombe Abbey and Eton, our tutors match the programme to the school's assessment format and to where the child is starting from.

Because the pool includes former heads of department, exam-board examiners and teachers from independent and boarding schools, and more than half of our tutors hold Qualified Teacher Status, families get a tutor who understands what the assessors are looking for. Every tutor who works with children holds an enhanced DBS check.

Families in Greater Manchester 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.