South Wilts Grammar School – 11+ Parent’s Guide

South Wilts Grammar School – 11+ Parent’s Guide

Essential Details

  • Address: South Wilts Grammar School, Stratford Road, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP1 3JJ
  • Number of pupils: 1,100+ (girls aged 11-18, co-ed Sixth Form)
  • Admissions contactadmissions@swgs.wilts.sch.uk
  • Number of places in Year 7: 180
  • 11+ exam: Wiltshire 11+ selection test
  • Catchment area: Priority given to pupils within Wiltshire LEA

Mark Your Calendar

See South Wilts Grammar School’s website for latest information and key dates.

Exploring South Wilts Grammar School: A Parent’s Guide

Founded in 1927, South Wilts Grammar School (SWGS) is a highly selective academy renowned for combining academic excellence with a vibrant creative arts programme. Consistently ranked among the top state schools in the South West, SWGS provides an inspiring education for girls aged 11-18, with a co-educational Sixth Form that attracts students from across the region.

The school offers a distinctive curriculum with particular strengths in STEM subjects, humanities and performing arts. As a National Teaching School and holder of the Platinum Artsmark, SWGS boasts exceptional facilities including a state-of-the-art science centre, professional-standard theatre, and dedicated creative arts studios. The school’s unique “Cathedral Curriculum” leverages its Salisbury location with special humanities programming.

Beyond academics, the school offers an outstanding enrichment programme including national championship-winning debating teams, internationally-recognised music ensembles, and elite sports academies. The school’s house system fosters healthy competition and community spirit.

Navigating the Application Process for South Wilts Grammar School

  1. Understand Requirements: Review Wiltshire 11+ testing process
  2. Register for Testing: Complete Wiltshire Council’s registration by June deadline
  3. Attend Open Morning: Visit in September to experience the school’s creative atmosphere
  4. Prepare Documents: Have birth certificate and two proofs of address ready
  5. Submit CAF: Complete Local Authority Common Application Form by 31 October
  6. Test Day: Wiltshire 11+ administered in September at test centres
  7. Results: Receive standardised scores in October (national offer day 1 March)
  8. Appeals: Understand process for considering contextual admissions

What to Expect on Wiltshire 11+ Test at South Wilts Grammar School

The Wiltshire 11+ consists of two GL Assessment papers:

  1. Verbal Reasoning (50 minutes):
    • Advanced comprehension and vocabulary testing
  2. Non-Verbal Reasoning (50 minutes):
    • Spatial awareness and pattern recognition
  • Format: Multiple-choice with separate answer sheets
  • Scoring: Standardised age-adjusted scores (total possible 280)
  • Pass Mark: Typically requires 220+ combined score

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.

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Expert Tips for Wiltshire Test Preparation

  1. Vocabulary Development: Focus on academic and technical terminology
  2. Spatial Skills: Practice with 3D rotation puzzles
  3. Timed Practice: Simulate full test conditions weekly
  4. Error Analysis: Maintain detailed logs of mistake patterns
  5. Wellbeing: Implement structured study breaks
  6. Mock Tests: Complete 5+ full practice tests
  7. Test Strategy: Learn intelligent guessing techniques

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