Urmston Grammar School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Type: Co-educational selective grammar school
• Age Range: 11-18 years
• Location: Urmston, Greater Manchester
• Status: Academy (converted 2010)
• Admissions: 11+ examination required
• Recent Ofsted Rating: Good (2022)
• Specialist Status: Science and Languages

About Urmston Grammar School

Established in 1929, Urmston Grammar School has evolved into one of Greater Manchester's most respected selective institutions. Located in the heart of Urmston within the Trafford Local Authority area, this co-educational grammar school serves families seeking academic excellence combined with exceptional pastoral care.

The school's unique history includes a period of separation in the 1960s when overcrowding led to the creation of separate boys' and girls' schools, before reuniting as a single co-educational institution. This experience has shaped the school's inclusive approach whilst maintaining its commitment to academic rigour.

Urmston Grammar's specialist status in both Science (awarded 2004) and Languages (2008) reflects its commitment to STEM education and global perspectives. The school's modern facilities include a state-of-the-art science block, dedicated reading room, professional theatre space, comprehensive fitness suite, and specialist music facilities that support both curricular and extra-curricular programmes.

Recent academic achievements demonstrate the school's continued excellence, with 68% of GCSE grades at 9-7 level and 85% English Baccalaureate achievement in 2023. At A-level, 68% of students achieved A*-B grades, representing the school's highest recorded performance and reflecting the quality of sixth form education.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Urmston Grammar School operates as a selective institution, requiring all prospective students to successfully complete the 11+ examination. As part of the Trafford selective system, the school participates in the coordinated admissions process for grammar schools across the local authority.

The 11+ assessment typically includes:

• Verbal Reasoning: Testing language comprehension and logical thinking
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Assessing pattern recognition and spatial awareness
• Mathematics: Covering Key Stage 2 curriculum with problem-solving elements
• English: Comprehension, grammar, and written expression

The examination usually takes place in September, with results released in October. Parents must register their child for the 11+ through Trafford Council's online portal, typically opening in May for the following academic year's intake.

Urmston Grammar School seeks students who demonstrate not only academic ability but also the potential to contribute to the school's diverse extra-curricular programme and collaborative learning environment.

How to Apply

The application process for Urmston Grammar School follows the Trafford coordinated admissions system:

Registration Timeline:

• May: Registration opens for 11+ examination
• June: Registration deadline (typically mid-June)
• September: 11+ examination conducted
• October: Results released to parents
• October 31st: Secondary school application deadline
• March: Allocation results announced

Application Requirements:

• Successful completion of 11+ examination
• Submission of Common Application Form through Trafford Council
• Urmston Grammar School listed as preference on application
• Proof of address and birth certificate

Parents should note that achieving the qualifying score in the 11+ examination does not guarantee a place, as admission depends on available spaces and the school's published oversubscription criteria. Priority is typically given to looked-after children, students with exceptional circumstances, and those living closest to the school.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition's comprehensive 11+ preparation programme is specifically designed to help students excel in grammar school admissions, including Urmston Grammar School's selective process. Our expert tutors understand the specific requirements of the Trafford 11+ system and have successfully prepared numerous students for grammar school entry.

Our Urmston Grammar School Preparation Includes:

• Targeted 11+ Coaching: Focused preparation covering all examination components with emphasis on Trafford-specific question styles
• Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning: Systematic development of logical thinking and pattern recognition skills
• Mathematics Mastery: Advanced problem-solving techniques and confidence-building in numerical reasoning
• English Excellence: Comprehensive language skills development including advanced comprehension and creative writing
• Mock Examinations: Regular assessment using past papers and examination-style questions
• Interview Preparation: Should additional assessments be required

Our personalised approach ensures each student receives instruction tailored to their individual strengths and areas for development. We provide detailed progress reports and maintain close communication with families throughout the preparation process.

Many of our students have successfully gained places at Urmston Grammar School and other prestigious institutions across Greater Manchester. Our proven track record, combined with deep understanding of the admissions process, positions Taylor Tuition as the ideal partner for families seeking grammar school success.

For families considering Urmston Grammar School, Taylor Tuition offers initial consultations to assess your child's readiness and develop a customised preparation strategy that maximises their potential for success in this competitive admissions process.