Key Information Summary
- School: The Crossley Heath School
- Location: Savile Park, Halifax, West Yorkshire HX3 0HG
- Type: Co-educational grammar school and sixth form
- Age Range: 11-18 years
- Pupils: Approximately 1,059
- Admission: 180 places annually via 11+ examination
- Ofsted Rating: Outstanding
- Headteacher: Mr Dean Jones
- Established: 1985
About The Crossley Heath School
The Crossley Heath School represents excellence in grammar school education within West Yorkshire, having earned recognition in the Sunday Times Parent Power guide as one of the UK's top 150 schools. Founded in 1985 through the merger of Heath Grammar School and Crossley and Porter School, this outstanding institution has established itself as a beacon of academic achievement in Halifax.
The school's distinctive ethos centres on six core values: Self-belief, Respect, Purpose, Responsibility, Challenge, and Aspiration. These principles shape every aspect of school life, creating an environment where students develop into articulate, independent citizens prepared for future leadership roles. The vibrant community atmosphere encourages both academic excellence and personal growth, supported by a comprehensive pastoral care system that prioritises mental health and wellbeing.
What sets Crossley Heath apart is its commitment to holistic education. Beyond outstanding academic results, the school offers extensive extracurricular programmes spanning sports, arts, and community engagement. This balanced approach ensures students develop the confidence and skills necessary for success in an increasingly competitive educational landscape.
The 11+ Assessment Process
Entry to The Crossley Heath School requires success in the 11+ entrance examination, jointly administered with North Halifax Grammar School. This selective assessment takes place in September of Year 6 and comprises two distinct papers:
Paper 1: English and Verbal Reasoning
This component evaluates students' language comprehension, vocabulary knowledge, and ability to reason using verbal concepts. Areas covered include:
- Reading comprehension and interpretation
- Vocabulary and word relationships
- Verbal logic and reasoning patterns
- Language analysis and synthesis
Paper 2: Mathematics and Non-Verbal Reasoning
The mathematical section assesses numerical competency whilst the non-verbal reasoning component evaluates logical thinking through visual patterns:
- Arithmetic and mathematical problem-solving
- Spatial awareness and pattern recognition
- Logical sequences and relationships
- Abstract reasoning using shapes and symbols
Both papers utilise optical mark reader sheets for efficient and accurate marking. The assessment focuses on academic potential rather than curriculum-specific knowledge, ensuring fair evaluation across different primary school backgrounds.
How to Apply
The application process for Year 7 entry follows a structured timeline beginning in the summer term of Year 5:
Registration Process
Parents must complete the online registration form available through the school's website. Registration typically opens in May for the following September's examination, with a deadline in early July. Early registration is essential as test places are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Examination Day
The 11+ tests take place at The Crossley Heath School in September of Year 6. Students should arrive well-rested and equipped with necessary stationery. The school provides a welcoming environment to minimise examination stress whilst maintaining appropriate testing conditions.
Results and Offers
Following marking and moderation, parents receive written notification of their child's position in the order of merit. The top 180 candidates receive offers for September entry. Waiting list positions are also communicated, as places occasionally become available through the summer term.
How Taylor Tuition Can Help
Taylor Tuition's expertise in 11+ preparation proves invaluable for families targeting The Crossley Heath School's competitive entry requirements. Our comprehensive approach addresses the unique challenges of this particular assessment whilst building confidence and examination technique.
Targeted Preparation Strategies
Our tutors possess intimate knowledge of Crossley Heath's specific assessment format and marking criteria. We provide focused preparation covering both verbal and non-verbal reasoning alongside strengthening mathematical foundations and English comprehension skills. Regular practice with past papers and similar question styles ensures students feel confident and prepared on examination day.
Personalised Learning Plans
Each student receives a bespoke preparation programme tailored to their individual strengths and areas for development. Our diagnostic assessments identify specific skill gaps, allowing us to maximise preparation efficiency whilst building upon existing capabilities.
Ongoing Support and Guidance
Beyond academic preparation, Taylor Tuition provides comprehensive support throughout the application process. From registration guidance to examination day preparation, our experienced team ensures families navigate the admissions process with confidence. We also offer alternative school recommendations and backup planning to secure the best possible educational outcomes.
With Taylor Tuition's proven track record in grammar school admissions, families can approach The Crossley Heath School's 11+ examination with confidence, knowing they have received the highest quality preparation and support.
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