Pate's Grammar School 11+
Crucial 11+ info, past 11+ papers and practice 11+ papers for Pate's Grammar School.
How to get into Pate's Grammar School
Pate's Grammar School is a selective secondary school in Gloucestershire. To get into Pate's Grammar School children need to pass the school's 11+ entrance test. Here is the step-by-step guide to getting your child into Pate's Grammar School with all the important information you need to know.
Admission Requirements
Children born between 1st September 2014 and 31st August 2015 are eligible for Year 7 entry in September 2026 (see key dates). The school offers 150 places annually through its Published Admission Number (PAN) [1].
Families must register for the Gloucestershire 11+ between noon on 19th May 2025 and noon on 27th June 2025 (see key dates). No late registrations are accepted. The entrance test takes place on Saturday 13th September 2025 (see key dates) [1].
Pate's Grammar School has no specific catchment area. Children from Gloucestershire and beyond can take the exam with equal consideration. However, when children achieve identical scores, ranking priority is determined by proximity to the school, measured in a straight line from school to home [1].
- Register for the Gloucestershire Grammar Schools' Entrance Test during the six-week window
- Complete the Common Application Form (CAF) through the local authority by 31st October 2025 (see key dates)
- List Pate's Grammar School as a preference on the CAF to be considered for a place
- Ensure child achieves the qualifying standard in the Gloucestershire 11+
- Provide required identification documents on test day
- Contact the school directly via the school information section for specific enquiries
Application Process
The application process involves two separate stages managed by different authorities. Registration for the entrance test is managed by the Gloucestershire grammar schools themselves, while place allocation is coordinated by local authorities [1].
Families must first register for the Gloucestershire 11+ examination through the school's website during the registration window. The test provider for entry into Year 7 in September 2026 is GL Assessment. Registration opens at noon on Monday 19th May 2025 and closes at noon on Friday 27th June 2025 (see key dates) [1].
The entrance examination takes place on Saturday 13th September 2025 (see key dates). Children take the test at one of the seven grammar schools, which may not be their preferred school. Results are emailed to families in mid-October 2025 (see key dates) [1].
- Complete the test registration form via the school website during the six-week window
- Submit the Common Application Form (CAF) through the local authority website by 31st October 2025 (see key dates)
- Rank Pate's Grammar School among preferred choices on the CAF
- Await test results in mid-October 2025 (see key dates)
- Receive official place allocation on Monday 2nd March 2026 (see key dates)
- Apply for special considerations during the registration process if required
- Contact the admissions team via the school information section for detailed guidance
Examination Details
The Gloucestershire 11+ consists of two papers provided by GL Assessment. Each test lasts around one hour, including time for instructions and worked example questions. There is a short break between the two papers [1].
Both tests feature multiple-choice questions covering English Comprehension, Vocabulary and Verbal Reasoning in Paper 1, and Mathematics and Non-Verbal Reasoning including Spatial Reasoning in Paper 2. The test is designed to be challenging, selecting children working in the top ability range of their year group [1].
There is no pre-defined pass mark for the examination. Children's results are ranked from highest to lowest, with the 250 children achieving the highest results forming the qualifying group. For children eligible for Pupil Premium, or who are Looked After or Previously Looked After, this number is lowered to 500 and these children are prioritised in the rank order [1].
- Paper 1: English Comprehension, Vocabulary and Verbal Reasoning
- Paper 2: Mathematics and Non-Verbal Reasoning including Spatial Reasoning
- Format: Multiple-choice questions throughout both papers
- Duration: Approximately one hour per paper including instructions
- Timing: Short break provided between papers
- Assessment: Ranking system with no fixed pass mark
- Preparation: Access GL Assessment familiarisation materials for practice
Preparation Guidance
Effective preparation requires a structured approach starting well in advance of the examination date. Child psychologists recommend using a 'little and often' approach, as brains encode new information more effectively when dealing with smaller chunks. For children aged 10-11, regular study sessions of 20-30 minutes are recommended [1].
Families should begin preparation at least twelve months before the examination. Building a good knowledge base before the 11+ is essential. Practice materials should focus on the specific subjects tested, including verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, English comprehension and mathematics [1].
The Grammar Schools of Gloucestershire work in partnership with Atom Learning to provide students eligible for Pupil Premium with free 11+ preparation. Children who have been eligible for free school meals at any point in the last six years can register for this support [1].
- Start preparation 12-18 months before the examination date
- Use daily 20-30 minute study sessions for optimal learning
- Focus on verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, English and mathematics
- Access practice papers through practice resources
- Consider professional support through tutoring services
- Utilise free preparation support if eligible for Pupil Premium
- Review GL Assessment familiarisation materials regularly
Practical Advice
Preparation for examination day should include both academic readiness and practical considerations. Children should familiarise themselves with the examination format and timing through regular practice sessions. Building a thorough revision timetable helps allay concerns about sitting the examination [1].
On examination day, families should arrive at the designated test centre with required identification documents. Children take the test at one of the seven grammar schools, which may not be their preferred school. The examination environment is designed to be formal yet supportive, similar to the testing conditions children will encounter throughout their secondary education [1].
Families should prepare backup school options within Gloucestershire in case their child does not achieve a qualifying score. If no places are available at preferred schools, children will be offered a place at another school in the area. Appeals are available through an independent panel if families are unsuccessful [1].
- Practice examination conditions regularly at home
- Ensure child gets adequate sleep and nutrition before examination day
- Arrive at the test centre with required identification documents
- Bring essential items like pencils, eraser and water if permitted
- Research backup school options within Gloucestershire
- Understand the appeals process in case of unsuccessful application
- Contact the school via the school information section for specific guidance
Gloucestershire 11+ Information
In order to get into Pate's Grammar School, children need to pass the Gloucestershire 11+. This 11+ test is written by GL Assessment for use by the school's admissions process.
Gloucestershire 11+ Subjects & Structure
The Gloucestershire 11+ requires children to complete tests in the following subjects:
- Reading Comprehension
- Vocabulary
- Verbal Reasoning
- Non-Verbal Reasoning
- Maths
The Gloucestershire Grammar Schools' Entrance Test is a crucial assessment for students seeking admission to Pate's Grammar School. This comprehensive examination is designed to evaluate the academic potential and aptitude of prospective students across a range of subjects.
The entrance test is divided into two distinct papers, each lasting for one hour. Paper 1 focuses on assessing the candidate's verbal skills, encompassing reading comprehension, vocabulary, and verbal reasoning. These components aim to gauge the student's ability to understand and analyze written texts, as well as their proficiency in language and logical thinking.
Paper 2, on the other hand, concentrates on evaluating the candidate's non-verbal skills. This section includes non-verbal reasoning and mathematics, which test the student's capacity for problem-solving, pattern recognition, and numerical aptitude. The questions in both papers are presented in a multiple-choice format, allowing for objective and standardized assessment.
Other Schools using Gloucestershire 11+
As well as Pate's Grammar School, several other schools also use Gloucestershire 11+. These are:
- Denmark Road High School
- Marling School
- Ribston Hall High School
- Sir Thomas Rich's School
- Stroud High School
- The Crypt School
Gloucestershire 11+ Marking Process
The reality of 11+ tests, selective education and academic institutions such as Pate's Grammar School is that only children with particularly high marks are admitted. Hence why it is important that children perform well in their 11+ papers.
Different schools (and different 11+ tests) have different marking processes. Some tests are marked in person, some remotely, while others utilise computer-based optical recognition technologies for quickly marking multiple-choice answer sheets.
Many 11+ tests are age-standardised to ensure younger children are not disadvantaged (i.e. their marks may be moderated depending on the month in which they were born). While creative writing papers can be used as tie-breakers, multiple-choice tests in Maths, Comprehension, Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning normally make up the bulk of a child's marks. The specific details and weightings can vary from year to year.
It's worth remembering that once children's 11+ tests are being marked, the admissions process is completely outside of the parents' control. Hence, parents should not worry themselves about whether their child has got a place!
Gloucestershire 11+ Pass Mark
The pass mark for the Gloucestershire 11+ changes every year and isn't generally made public knowledge. This is due to the academic strength of the children taking the test varying and how challenging the test ends up being (as well as plenty of other smaller variables).
Hence, as a vague rule-of-thumb, it's recommended that children aim for roughly 75-80% in their practice tests. Whilst this won't guarantee them a place at Pate's Grammar School, it's a ballpark exam result figure for successful candidates.
Key Dates for the Pate's Grammar School 11+ Entrance Tests
Here are all the important dates for the 11+ tests (to get into Pate's Grammar School) as well as other relevant dates.
| Date | Event | Calendar Link |
|---|---|---|
| 19/05/2025 | Gloucestershire 11 Plus Registration Opens At Midday | Add Dates to Calendar |
| 27/06/2025 | Gloucestershire 11 Plus Registration Closes At Midday | |
| 13/09/2025 | Gloucestershire Grammar Schoolsâ Entrance Test | |
| Late October | Secondary School Applications Close At 5pm | |
| 02/03/2026 | Secondary School National Offers Day |
Although the utmost care has been taken to gather these dates, parents should treat them as a guide and check with Pate's Grammar School as they may well change.
11+ Tutor for Pate's Grammar School
As the Gloucestershire 11+ entrance process is particularly gruelling, we would highly recommend using an 11+ private tutor.
Why use a private 11+ tutor?
Personal tutors have the experience and expertise to help children pass their 11+ exams. They know the requirements of the GL Assessment 11+ tests inside-out and can provide tailored support to give children the best possible chance of success. It's also important to bear in mind that plenty of other children will be using private tutors too.
11+ tutors don't need to be face-to-face, plenty of children use online 11+ tutors.
11+ tutors can also provide regular progress reports and feedback, helping parents to monitor their child's progress and make any necessary adjustments to their preparation.
Most importantly, using an 11+ tutor helps ensure that the preparation work gets done!
Private 11+ Tutors for the Pate's Grammar School 11+ Tests
We have a range of private tutors who specialise in preparing children for the Pate's Grammar School 11+ entrance tests. Please click here to be put in touch with a range of excellent 11+ private tutors from our friends at exams.courses.
11+ Past Papers for Pate's Grammar School
Here are all available past 11+ papers for Pate's Grammar School. Please note that this may include 11+ past papers, past familiarisation booklets, past practice materials published by third parties and past 11+ exam guides written by the school. These materials are provided 'as-is' and may no longer reflect the subjects, format, structure or exam board that Pate's Grammar School currently uses.
The exam board (or test supplier) that Pate's Grammar School chooses to use for their 11+ entrance tests can change and we encourage you to check directly with the school.
As well as these past 11+ papers, you may find our extensive collection of 11+ practice papers helpful for your child's preparation.
| Exam Board | Subject | 11+ Past Paper |
|---|---|---|
| CEM* Now use GL Assessment | Mixed |
11+ Practice Papers for Pate's Grammar School
Here are some superb free 11+ practice papers that children can download and use to help prepare for the Gloucestershire 11+ Ensure you double-check with Pate's Grammar School which subjects and topics your child's 11+ tests are in to ensure you prepare for the right tests.
This is just a sample of our extensive collection of 11+ practice papers. Please click here to see the full collection.
11+ Practice Papers for Pate's Grammar School by Bond
These Free GL 11+ Practice Papers were published by Bond and cover and cover all the main 11+ subjects: English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning. As such they are very helpful for children hoping to pass the Gloucestershire 11+ to get into Pate's Grammar School.
| Exam Board | Subject | Question Booklet | Answers |
|---|---|---|---|
| GL Assessment | English | ||
| GL Assessment | Maths | ||
| GL Assessment | Non-Verbal Reasoning | ||
| GL Assessment | Verbal Reasoning | ||
| GL Assessment | Mixed |
11+ Practice Papers for Pate's Grammar School by GL Assessment
These Free GL 11+ Practice Papers were published by GL Assessment themselves. As with the Bond papers, they cover all the main 11+ subjects: English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning. They remain useful and we encourage parents to download and use them with their children to help them get into Pate's Grammar School.
| Exam Board | Subject | Answer Sheet | Question Booklet | Answers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GL Assessment | English | |||
| GL Assessment | Maths | |||
| GL Assessment | Non-Verbal Reasoning | |||
| GL Assessment | Verbal Reasoning | |||
| GL Assessment | Mixed |
11+ Practice Papers for Pate's Grammar School by Exam Ninja
These Free 11+ Practice Tests by Exam Ninja are extremely useful. They are straight-forward 10-question tests in Maths and English, following the same GL Assessment style (and multiple-choice format) as the Gloucestershire 11+.
| Exam Board | Subject | Question Booklet | Answers |
|---|---|---|---|
| GL Assessment | Maths | ||
| GL Assessment | English |
11+ Practice Papers for Pate's Grammar School by Owl Tutors
These Free 11+ Practice Papers were published by Owl Tutors. These too are written in a GL Assessment style and make useful practice for children hoping to get into Pate's Grammar School.
| Exam Board | Subject | Question Booklet | Answers |
|---|---|---|---|
| GL Assessment | English | ||
| GL Assessment | Writing | ||
| GL Assessment | Maths | ||
| GL Assessment | Verbal Reasoning |
11+ Practice Papers for Pate's Grammar School by CGP
These Free 11+ Practice Papers were published by CGP and we thank them for granting us permission to distribute them. As with the Bond, GL Assessment and Exam Ninja papers, they're written for the GL Assessment style, in multiple-choice format and are helpful for children hoping to pass their 11+ tests and get into Pate's Grammar School.
| Exam Board | Subject | Answer Sheet | Question Booklet | Answers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GL Assessment | Maths | |||
| GL Assessment | English | |||
| GL Assessment | Verbal Reasoning | |||
| GL Assessment | Non-Verbal Reasoning |
These Free CEM 11+ Practice Papers were published by CGP and we thank them for granting us permission to distribute them. If Pate's Grammar School ever used them then they don't anymore as grammar schools no longer use CEM for any of their 11+ entrance tests. However, as a general practice tool these 11+ tests remain useful.
| Exam Board | Subject | Answer Sheet | Question Booklet | Answers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CEM | Maths | |||
| CEM | Verbal Reasoning | |||
| CEM | Non-Verbal Reasoning |
11+ Practice Papers for Pate's Grammar School by 11+ For You
These Free 11+ Practice Papers were published some time ago by "11+ For You".
| Exam Board | Subject | Question Booklet | Answers |
|---|---|---|---|
| GL Assessment | Verbal Reasoning |
11+ Practice Papers for Pate's Grammar School by Examberry
These Free 11+ Practice Papers were published some time ago by "Examberry".
| Exam Board | Subject | Answer Sheet | Question Booklet | Answers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GL Assessment | Non-Verbal Reasoning |
11+ Practice Papers for Pate's Grammar School by Independent Junction
These Free 11+ Practice Papers were published some time ago by Independent Junction.
| Exam Board | Subject | Question Booklet | Answers |
|---|---|---|---|
| GL Assessment | Verbal Reasoning |
11+ Practice Papers for Pate's Grammar School by IPS
These Free 11+ Practice Papers were published some time ago by IPS (Internet Primary School Ltd).
| Exam Board | Subject | Answer Sheet | Question Booklet | Answers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GL Assessment | Verbal Reasoning | |||
| GL Assessment | Maths |
11+ Practice Papers for Pate's Grammar School by Schofield & Sims
These 11+ practice papers were published by Schofield & Sims, a large UK educational publisher.
| Exam Board | Subject | Question Booklet | Answers |
|---|---|---|---|
| GL Assessment | Verbal Reasoning | ||
| GL Assessment | Maths |
School Information
Below you will find further information about Pate's Grammar School together with their admissions contact details.
| Address | Pate's Grammar School, Princess Elizabeth Way, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL51 0HG |
|---|---|
| School Website | https://www.patesgs.org/ |
| Telephone | 01242523169 |
| Email Address | office@patesgs.org |
| Gender | Mixed (both girls and boys) |
| Total Year 7 Places | Unknown |
| Total Pupils (Girls/Boys) | 1243 (589 Girls / 654 Boys) |
| Headteacher | Dr James Richardson |
Pate's Grammar School is a mixed (i.e. both girls and boys) school. It is also an academy, meaning the school is run independently by a trust or sponsor and is directly funded by the central government (not the local authority).
In total 1,243 pupils attend Pate's Grammar School and it's led by the Headteacher, Dr James Richardson.
Pate's Grammar School Location
Below you will find a map showing the school's location:
Ofsted Information
Pate's Grammar School was last inspected by Ofsted on 25/04/2013 and the inspection only lasted one day. Ofsted published their report on 17/05/2013, declaring that the school was 'Outstanding'. This information is summarised in the table below along with a link to the full report.
Last Ofsted Report Data
| Date Inspected | Inspection Duration (Days) | Reporting Date | Rating | Full Report | 25/04/2013 | 1 | 17/05/2013 | Outstanding | Full Report |
|---|
Ofsted Report Summary
Pate's Grammar School was inspected by Ofsted on 17/05/2013 and received an Outstanding rating in all areas. The school demonstrated exceptional quality of education, with students consistently achieving high academic standards. The behaviour and attitudes of students were also deemed Outstanding, reflecting a positive learning environment and a strong sense of community within the school.
The personal development of students at Pate's Grammar School was found to be Outstanding, with a wide range of opportunities for students to develop their skills, interests, and character. The school's leadership and management were also rated Outstanding, with clear vision, effective strategies, and strong support for staff and students.
The sixth form provision at Pate's Grammar School was equally impressive, receiving an Outstanding rating. Students in the sixth form benefit from high-quality teaching, a wide range of subject options, and excellent support and guidance, preparing them well for their future education and careers.
GCSE & A-Level Subjects
Below you will find a complete list of GCSE and A-Level subjects offered to pupils at Pate's Grammar School for the 2022-23 academic year.
| GCSE Subjects Offered |
|
|---|---|
| A-Level Subjects Offered |
|
GCSE & A-Level Performance
Below are the individual GCSE and A-Level performance tables for Pate's Grammar School per subject. Note that this may include children taking GCSEs early (e.g. taking a language GCSE in Year 10) or indeed a child in Year 12 retaking a GCSE.
GCSE Results Information (2022-23)
| Subject | Total Pupils | Grades Achieved | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | ||
| Art & Design (Fine Art) | 20 | - | - | - | - | 1 | 2 | 4 | 7 | 3 | 3 |
| Biology | 154 | - | - | - | - | - | 2 | 7 | 20 | 42 | 83 |
| Business Studies:Single | 91 | - | - | - | - | - | 3 | 5 | 17 | 28 | 38 |
| Chemistry | 154 | - | - | - | - | - | 1 | 6 | 16 | 30 | 101 |
| Chinese | 29 | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | 4 | 12 | 13 |
| Computer Studies/Computing | 52 | - | - | - | - | - | 3 | 5 | 16 | 13 | 15 |
| English Language | 154 | - | - | - | - | 1 | 6 | 19 | 34 | 41 | 53 |
| English Literature | 154 | - | - | - | - | 1 | 1 | 18 | 36 | 44 | 54 |
| French | 49 | - | - | - | - | - | 1 | 1 | 8 | 12 | 27 |
| Geography | 108 | - | - | - | - | - | 1 | 3 | 22 | 24 | 58 |
| German | 31 | - | - | - | - | - | - | 5 | 9 | 9 | 8 |
| History | 73 | - | - | - | - | - | - | 6 | 9 | 20 | 38 |
| Mathematics | 153 | - | - | - | - | - | 2 | 5 | 23 | 56 | 67 |
| Music | 22 | - | - | - | - | - | - | 2 | 6 | 5 | 9 |
| Physics | 153 | - | - | - | - | - | 1 | 6 | 12 | 29 | 105 |
| Religious Studies | 28 | - | - | - | - | 3 | - | 5 | 4 | 4 | 12 |
| Spanish | 50 | - | - | - | - | 1 | 3 | 7 | 9 | 16 | 14 |
| Drama & Theatre Studies | 27 | - | - | - | - | - | 1 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 6 |
| Physical Education/Sports Studies | 28 | - | - | - | - | - | - | 5 | 4 | 13 | 6 |
A-Level Results Information (2022-23)
| Subject | Total Pupils | Grades Achieved | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U | E | D | C | B | A | A* | |||||
| Art and Design (Fine Art) | 9 | - | - | - | - | 3 | 3 | 3 | |||
| Biology | 96 | - | 1 | 1 | 11 | 16 | 38 | 29 | |||
| Chemistry | 115 | - | - | - | 10 | 23 | 48 | 33 | |||
| Computer Studies / Computing | 19 | - | - | - | 2 | 4 | 12 | 1 | |||
| Economics | 39 | - | - | - | - | 6 | 18 | 15 | |||
| English Literature | 33 | - | 1 | - | 2 | 9 | 12 | 9 | |||
| French | 7 | - | - | - | - | 3 | 3 | 1 | |||
| Geography | 31 | - | - | - | 1 | 4 | 18 | 8 | |||
| German | 7 | - | - | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 2 | |||
| Government and Politics | 23 | - | - | - | 2 | 5 | 9 | 7 | |||
| History | 33 | - | - | - | 5 | 9 | 11 | 8 | |||
| Mathematics | 141 | - | 1 | 3 | 8 | 28 | 52 | 49 | |||
| Mathematics (Further) | 44 | - | - | - | 4 | 8 | 18 | 14 | |||
| Physical Education / Sports Studies | 9 | - | - | - | 1 | 2 | 2 | 4 | |||
| Physics | 55 | - | - | 1 | 2 | 12 | 20 | 20 | |||
| Psychology | 64 | - | 2 | - | 6 | 22 | 24 | 10 | |||
| Religious Studies | 24 | - | - | - | 2 | 10 | 6 | 6 | |||
| Spanish | 12 | - | - | - | - | 3 | 4 | 5 | |||
FAQ
Is Pate's Grammar School hard to get into?
Yes, Pate's Grammar School is hard to get into! Children need to pass their challenging 11+ entrance test (with a high pass mark) and there's tough competition with many other children trying to get a place for Year 7.
Is Pate's Grammar School a private school?
No, Pate's Grammar School is one of the few remaining academically selective, state-funded grammar schools left in England.
Is Pate's Grammar School free?
Yes, Pate's Grammar School is free, there are no school fees. Thus, sending your child to Pate's Grammar School won't cost you any money.
How do I get my child into Pate's Grammar School?
You need to apply to take the school's 11+ test. Contact Pate's Grammar School for how up to date information on how to apply (it may be automatic or it may require some forms to be filled in). More information on their 11+ entrance test can be found here.
