Bishop Wordsworth’s School – 11+ Parent’s Guide
Essential Details
- Address: Bishop Wordsworth’s School, 11 The Close, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP1 2EB
- Number of pupils: 950+ (boys aged 11-18, mixed Sixth Form)
- Admissions contact: rec@bishopwordsworths.org.uk
- Number of places in Year 7: 120
- 11+ exam: Wiltshire Grammar Schools’ Selection Test
- Catchment area: Yes (priority given to Wiltshire residents)
Mark Your Calendar
See Bishop Wordsworth’s School’s website for latest information and key dates.
Exploring Bishop Wordsworth’s School: A Parent’s Guide
Founded in 1890 and located within the historic Salisbury Cathedral Close, Bishop Wordsworth’s School (BWS) is one of England’s most prestigious state grammar schools. The school achieved outstanding results in 2023, with 89% 9-7 grades at GCSE and 83% A*-B at A-level. BWS maintains a strong Oxbridge tradition, with 10 students securing places in 2023.
The curriculum combines academic rigor with creative teaching approaches. BWS offers unique programs including the “Golding Scholars” pathway (named after alumnus William Golding) and exceptional classics provision. The school’s £3.5m science centre provides cutting-edge facilities, while its cathedral choir maintains a 500-year musical tradition.
Beyond academics, BWS offers an unparalleled extracurricular program including national championship-winning debating teams, CCF with cathedral parade rights, and outstanding drama productions in their 200-seat theatre. The school’s “Wordsworth Award” challenges students to complete expeditions, creative projects and community service.
Navigating the Application process at Bishop Wordsworth’s School
- Registration: Apply for Wiltshire Selection Test by June 30th of Year 5
- Test Preparation: Focus on verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning and mathematics
- Test Date: Wiltshire 11+ taken in September of Year 6
- Application Deadline: Submit CAF to home local authority by October 31st
- Results: Standardised scores released in October
- National Offer Day: March 1st
- Appeals Process: For candidates scoring within the review range
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What to Expect on Secondary Transfer Test at Bishop Wordsworth’s School
The Wiltshire 11+ Selection Test features:
- Two 50-minute multiple-choice papers taken on the same day
- Paper 1: Verbal reasoning (including comprehension and vocabulary)
- Paper 2: Non-verbal reasoning and mathematics
- Standardised scoring (minimum qualifying score typically 320+)
- Exam conditions at designated test centres across Wiltshire
- Special arrangements available for SEN students (evidence required)
Tailored Preparation for Success
Want to give your child a roadmap to success in the Secondary Transfer Test? You can with Learoni. We provide everything you need to prepare in one comprehensive package. Forget about hiring a tutor to secure a spot at your top-choice grammar school. With Learoni, you’ll receive a tailored plan for your child and ongoing support throughout their enjoyable revision journey.
Expert Tips for Secondary Transfer Test Preparation
- Classical Vocabulary: Study Latin roots and literary terminology
- Non-Verbal Fluency: Master complex pattern sequences
- Mathematical Precision: Excel in problem-solving and data interpretation
- Cathedral Reading: Practice comprehension using complex texts
- Timed Conditions: Simulate full exam pressure in practice
- Error Analysis: Create a “mistake bible” for targeted improvement
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