Children applying to the Bournemouth and Poole grammar schools take entrance tests in Mathematics, English, and Verbal Reasoning. These exams are designed to assess a child’s understanding of the Key Stage 2 national curriculum, but they are taken early in Year 6 — before most children have covered the full curriculum in school.
One-to-one tutoring can play a vital role in closing knowledge gaps, strengthening core skills, and building confidence ahead of these important exams.
​
What’s in the Tests?
🧮 Mathematics (50 minutes)
The maths paper is based on the full Key Stage 2 curriculum. As the test is sat early in Year 6, many children won’t yet have been taught all of the content. Tuition ensures they are well-prepared and able to approach unfamiliar topics with confidence.
📘 English (45 minutes)
This paper assesses reading comprehension, vocabulary, and punctuation. It is designed to stretch children and includes questions that go beyond standard classroom exercises.
​
🧠Verbal Reasoning (50 minutes)
Verbal reasoning is not usually taught in school, so this part of the test can feel unfamiliar. It includes five different types of question that test logic, language patterns, and problem-solving skills.
Grammar schools strongly recommend that children familiarise themselves with this component in advance. One-to-one tutoring is ideal for building skills, confidence, and familiarity.
​
All papers are multiple-choice, and children record their answers on a pre-printed answer sheet.
​
Which Schools Use These Tests?
There are four grammar schools in the Bournemouth and Poole consortium:
-
Parkstone Grammar School
These schools all use the same entrance tests, held on the same day, at one of the consortium schools. Collectively, they are known as the Bournemouth and Poole Grammar School Consortium.
​
Key Dates for 2025/26 Entry (Year 7 in September 2026)
-
Register for testing by: Friday 5 September 2025, 12 noon
-
Entrance tests: Saturday 20 September 2025
-
Results sent to parents: Friday 10 October 2025
-
Deadline for local authority school applications: Thursday 31 October 2025
To sit the test, parents must register their child with one of the four grammar schools before the deadline. Test outcomes are then used to determine eligibility for a grammar school place. Parents can apply to their preferred school(s) via their local authority application.