London has grammar schools spread across several outer boroughs, each with their own admissions arrangements. Unlike regions such as Kent or Buckinghamshire where a single test covers all grammar schools, London parents often need to navigate different exam formats depending on which schools they are targeting. This makes understanding the admissions landscape particularly important. Browse all regions on our 11+ mock exams hub.
Key boroughs with grammar schools include Bexley, Bromley, Barnet, Enfield, Kingston upon Thames and Sutton. Bexley grammar schools generally use GL Assessment for their 11+ entrance tests. The Tiffin schools in Kingston run their own admissions test. Schools in Sutton operate as a consortium with shared testing arrangements. Some schools in Bromley and Barnet set their own entrance exams. Parents should always check the specific admissions pages of their target schools for the most current information on the test format used.
Competition for grammar school places in London is intense, with many schools receiving significantly more applications than they have places available. Thorough preparation, including practising with mock exams in the correct format, is essential for giving your child the best chance of success.
The table below provides an overview of key London boroughs with grammar schools and the exam types generally associated with them. Please note that testing arrangements can change, and parents should verify details directly with each school.
| Borough | Exam Type | Notable Schools |
|---|---|---|
| Bexley | Quest Assessments (previously GL) | Beths Grammar School, Bexley Grammar School, Chislehurst and Sidcup Grammar School, Townley Grammar School |
| Bromley | Varies by school | Newstead Wood School, St Olave's Grammar School, Ravens Wood School |
| Barnet | Varies by school | Queen Elizabeth's School, Henrietta Barnett School |
| Enfield | GL Assessment | Latymer School, Edmonton |
| Kingston upon Thames | Own admissions test | Tiffin School, Tiffin Girls' School |
| Sutton | Consortium arrangements | Nonsuch High School, Wallington County Grammar School, Wallington High School for Girls, Wilson's School, Sutton Grammar School |
Note: Testing arrangements may change from year to year. Always check each school's admissions page for the most up-to-date information on the exam format, registration deadlines and test dates.
London is home to some of the most sought-after grammar schools in England. Below is a selection of well-known London grammar schools. This is not an exhaustive list.
Kingston upon Thames · Boys
Uses own admissions test
Kingston upon Thames · Girls
Uses own admissions test
Bromley · Girls
Check school for test details
Bromley · Boys
Check school for test details
Barnet · Girls
Check school for test details
Barnet · Boys
Check school for test details
Sutton · Girls
Sutton consortium test
Sutton · Boys
Sutton consortium test
Enfield · Co-ed
Check school for test details
Preparing for 11+ exams in London requires careful planning, as different schools use different test formats. Our fun 11+ lessons can help keep children motivated alongside structured revision. Here is a practical approach to ensure your child is well prepared.
Research which grammar schools your child is eligible for based on your address and each school's catchment or eligibility criteria. Check the exam format each school uses and note all registration deadlines.
London schools use different test providers and formats. Some use GL Assessment (multiple choice), others run their own tests which may include written answers or essays. Tailor your child's preparation to the specific format of their target schools.
Regardless of the specific exam format, a strong foundation in English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning is essential. Ensure your child is confident with the Year 5 and Year 6 curriculum.
Time management is critical across all 11+ exam formats. Practise working through questions efficiently, not spending too long on any single question, and checking answers where time permits.
Mock exams build familiarity with the test format, reduce exam-day anxiety and highlight areas for improvement. Use mock exams that match the specific format of your target schools for the most realistic practice.
Each school has its own registration deadline, and late applications are generally not accepted. Create a calendar of all key dates and set reminders to ensure you do not miss any deadlines.
No. London grammar schools use a variety of different 11+ exam formats depending on the borough and the individual school. For example, grammar schools in Bexley have recently switched to Quest Assessments (previously GL Assessment), while the Tiffin schools in Kingston run their own admissions test. Schools in Sutton are part of a consortium with their own testing arrangements. Some schools in Bromley also set their own entrance tests. Parents must check each target school's website for details of the specific test format used.
The timing of 11+ exams in London varies by borough and school. Most tests are held in September or October of Year 6, but some schools may test at different times. Registration deadlines also vary, with many opening in the spring or summer term of Year 5. It is important to check each school's admissions timeline well in advance, as late registrations are generally not accepted.
The subjects tested depend on the specific exam format used by each school or borough. Common subjects include English (reading comprehension, grammar, creative writing), Mathematics, Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning. Some schools also include an essay or creative writing component. GL Assessment-based tests are typically all multiple choice, while school-specific tests may include written answers.
Because London grammar schools use different exam formats, the first step is to identify which test your target schools use. Then focus preparation on that specific format. General 11+ preparation covering English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning provides a strong foundation regardless of the specific exam. Taking mock exams in the relevant format is one of the most effective ways to build confidence and exam technique.
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