Admissions to Buckinghamshire Grammar Schools

On behalf of the 13 Buckinghamshire grammar schools

1: WHAT’S NEW?

Grammar schools in Bucks are now all independent admissions authorities

11+ tests now commissioned by academy grammar schools – working together to maintain consistency in the selection process

New tests from 2013Different timetable from 2013 for 2014

entry

2: PROVIDERCEM (Centre for evaluation and

Monitoring)Durham UniversitySelected by tenderThree-year contract

3: TESTSTwo testsTest preparation in advance Each 45-50 minsVerbal, numerical and non-verbal ability in

both tests*Sections separately timedCD administration to ensure consistencyAdaptations for pupils with special

educational need* Design of new tests reflects the widely-accepted view of ‘ability’ as multi-faceted

4: VERBAL ABILITYVerbal reasoningComprehensionVocabulary

Verbal Ability Example

Verbal ability example

5: NUMERICAL ABILITYProblem-solvingMulti-stage

Numerical reasoning example

6: NON-VERBAL ABILITYReasoning in a diagrammatic/abstract

context

Non verbal reasoning example

7: MARKING & RESULTSOMR answer sheets – multiple choice Single total scoreAge-standardisedQualifying score = 121

8: PREPARATIONFamiliarisation sheet – explaining what the

tests are about, giving test-taking advice and a few sample questions. This sheet will go home with pupils.

Preparation papers = 2 x 30 mins – experience of test-taking conditions , these papers will not be marked and not sent home.

9: BENEFITSAbility is multi-facetedA range of contextsLess time takenReduced pupil stressReduces impact of coaching

10: TRIALPurpose: tests of appropriate standard1000 Bucks pupils in Y6March 2013

11: TIMETABLEDetermined by government deadline of 31

OctoberBoth preparation papers on one dayBoth actual tests on one dayProposed preparation day: 10 SeptemberProposed test day: 12 September

Next stepsGrammar consultations run until the end of

February and they are inviting comments on the proposals

In summer term further presentation for Y5 parents giving more detail re the test process for children