Westcliff High School for Boys – 11+ Parent’s Guide
Essential Details
- Address: Westcliff High School for Boys, Kenilworth Gardens, Westcliff-on-Sea, Essex, SS0 0BP
- Number of pupils: 1,100+ (boys aged 11-18, co-ed Sixth Form)
- Admissions contact: office@whsb.essex.sch.uk
- Number of places in Year 7: 180
- 11+ exam: Consortium of Selective Schools in Essex (CSSE) 11+ test
- Catchment area: Priority given to pupils within Southend Borough
Mark Your Calendar
See Westcliff High School for Boys’s website for latest information and key dates.Exploring Westcliff High School for Boys: A Parent’s Guide
Founded in 1919, Westcliff High School for Boys (WHSB) is one of Essex’s premier selective schools, renowned for its academic excellence and strong emphasis on character development. Consistently ranked among the top state schools in the country, WHSB provides an outstanding education for boys aged 11-18, with a co-educational Sixth Form that attracts students from across South Essex.
The school offers a rigorous curriculum with particular strengths in mathematics, sciences and classics. As a designated Teaching School with specialist status in Science and Languages, WHSB boasts exceptional facilities including advanced science laboratories, a dedicated classics department and modern language suites. The school’s unique “WHSB Baccalaureate” encourages broad academic achievement beyond exam syllabuses.
Beyond academics, the school offers an impressive enrichment programme including national championship-winning rugby and cricket teams, award-winning music ensembles, and extensive leadership opportunities through the Combined Cadet Force. The school’s house system fosters healthy competition and lifelong friendships.
Navigating the Application Process for Westcliff High School for Boys
- Understand Requirements: Review CSSE 11+ testing process
- Register for Testing: Complete CSSE registration by July deadline
- Attend Open Evening: Visit in September to experience the school’s ethos
- Prepare Documents: Have birth certificate and two proofs of address ready
- Submit CAF: Complete Local Authority Common Application Form by 31 October
- Test Day: CSSE 11+ administered in September at test centres
- Results: Receive standardised scores in October (national offer day 1 March)
- Appeals: Understand process for considering contextual admissions
Help your child succeed in 11+ Exam
11+ Verbal Reasoning (VR)
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11+ Cloze Tests
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11 Plus Reading Comprehension Book
Original price was: £12.99.£4.99Current price is: £4.99.What to Expect on the CSSE 11+ Test
- English (1 hour):
- Comprehension, creative writing and SPaG
- Mathematics (1 hour):
- Problem-solving and arithmetic
- Format: Written answers (no multiple-choice)
- Scoring: Standardised age-adjusted scores (total possible 420)
- Pass Mark: Typically requires 303+ (varies annually)
Tailored Preparation for Success
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Expert Tips for 11+ Exam Preparation
11+ Expert Tips for CSSE Test
- Creative Writing: Practice different genres and timed responses
- Mathematical Fluency: Master Year 6 curriculum thoroughly
- Comprehension Skills: Analyze challenging texts daily
- Timed Practice: Simulate full test conditions weekly
- Error Analysis: Create a mistake log to track progress
- Wellbeing: Ensure adequate sleep during preparation
- Mock Tests: Complete at least 6 full practice tests
Tailored Preparation for CSSE 11+
- Use CSSE-specific preparation materials
- Focus equally on English and Mathematics
- Begin structured preparation in Year 5 Spring term
- Consider professional guidance for creative writing techniques
- Develop strategies for different question types
- Practice with past CSSE papers
- Prepare all required stationery for test day
With its outstanding academic record and strong tradition of excellence, Westcliff High School for Boys offers a truly transformative education. Following this guidance will maximise your son’s chances of success in the competitive CSSE 11+ test.
Additional Information:
- Priority given to Southend residents
- Music and sports scholarships available
- Excellent transport links across South Essex
- Strong Oxbridge success rate
- Unique partnerships with local universities
- Regular participation in national STEM competitions
- Outstanding pastoral care system
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