St Bernard’s Catholic Grammar School: 11+ Admissions Test Requirements

St Bernard’s Catholic Grammar School is a unique mixed Catholic state voluntary-aided grammar school. With 80% Roman Catholic students, it welcomes diverse backgrounds. Learn about the 11+ Admissions Test, a crucial step in enrollment.

About St Bernard’s Catholic Grammar School

St Bernard’s Catholic Grammar School is the sole mixed Catholic state voluntary-aided grammar school in the country. The majority of students are Roman Catholic, while around 70% come from White British, Irish, or other White backgrounds.

The school has a low proportion of special educational needs and disabilities and students eligible for free meals. With more girls than boys, it excels in humanities specialist subjects. The school ranks 52 and holds Artsmark Silver and Fair Trade status.

Admissions Requirements

For Year 7 admission, students must excel in the 11+ examination, designed to assess their aptitude for grammar school education in Slough. St Bernard’s Catholic Grammar School is part of the Slough Consortium of Grammar Schools, which conducts the 11+ examination in collaboration with Herschel Grammar School and Upton Court Grammar School.

Application Process – St Bernard’s Catholic Grammar School

St Bernard’s Catholic Grammar School is part of the Slough Consortium of Grammar Schools, together with Herschel Grammar School, Langley Grammar School, and Upton Court Grammar School. The Consortium organizes a common 11+ entrance examination process, with shared papers and eligibility criteria.

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11+ Admissions Test Format

The 11+ admissions test for St Bernard’s Catholic Grammar School follows the Berkshire GL 11 Plus format. It consists of four main sections:

• English: This section assesses students’ language skills, including comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary. Students may encounter passages to read and answer questions based on them, as well as grammar and vocabulary exercises.
• Verbal Reasoning: The Verbal Reasoning section evaluates students’ logical thinking and verbal abilities. It often includes questions on analogies, codes, and word relationships, challenging students to think critically and make connections between different elements.
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: The Non-Verbal Reasoning section focuses on assessing problem-solving and spatial reasoning skills. Students are presented with visual puzzles, series completion tasks, and pattern recognition exercises that do not rely on language but test their ability to identify and deduce patterns.
• Maths: The Maths section measures students’ numerical and arithmetic skills. It includes a range of mathematical problems, such as solving equations, working with fractions, decimals, and percentages, and applying mathematical concepts to real-life scenarios.

Students need to be well-prepared for the 11+ Admissions Test, as it significantly determines their eligibility for admission to St Bernard’s Catholic Grammar School. 

11+ Revision Tips for St Bernard’s Catholic Grammar School

Here are three tips that can help your kid in attaining a good score:

• Focus on Core Subjects: Prioritise English, Maths, and Verbal Reasoning as they carry significant weight in the exam.
• Practice Timed Tests: Simulate exam conditions with timed tests to improve speed and accuracy.
• Master Non-Verbal Reasoning: Develop spatial awareness and pattern recognition skills through regular practice.
• Seek Feedback: Review the mock tests, identify weaknesses, and work on improving them.
• Stay Consistent: Set a revision schedule and stick to it, ensuring balanced preparation for all test subjects.

St Bernard’s Catholic Grammar School Information

County: Berkshire

Address: St Bernard’s Catholic Grammar School, 1 Langley Road, Slough SL3 7AF

Website: www.st-bernards.slough.sch.uk

Type: Mixed Grammar

Places in Year 7: 120

Competition: 5+ applicants for every place

Exam Format: Berkshire GL 11 Plus – English, Verbal Reasoning, Maths and Non-Verbal Reasoning.

FAQs

Is St Bernard’s Catholic Grammar School suitable for students of all faiths and backgrounds?

Yes, absolutely! While the school has most Roman Catholic students, it welcomes students from diverse backgrounds and faiths. St Bernard’s Catholic Grammar School prides itself on fostering an inclusive and respectful environment for all students, promoting a sense of community and mutual understanding.

How does St Bernard’s Catholic Grammar School support students with special educational needs (SEN)?

St Bernard’s Catholic Grammar School is committed to providing an inclusive education for all students. The school has dedicated SEN support and interventions to cater to individual needs. Through personalized learning plans and additional resources, the school ensures that every student has the opportunity to thrive academically and personally.

What extracurricular activities are offered at St Bernard’s Catholic Grammar School?

St Bernard’s Catholic Grammar School offers many extracurricular activities to enrich students’ experiences beyond the classroom. From sports and arts clubs to academic and community-based initiatives, there are plenty of opportunities for students to explore their interests and passions. These activities foster teamwork, leadership skills, and personal development. The school encourages students to participate and maximize their time at the institution.