St Olave's 11+ has a written examination followed by further stages for candidates who qualify. The written papers cover English, mathematics and reasoning. Preparation should be timed and spread across all three, since the result is combined. Registration with the school is separate from your local authority application - both are required.

Roughly one family in six missed their first-choice secondary school for September 2026: 83.6% were offered it. — DfE, School applications and offers, 2026

St. Olave's Grammar School, located in Orpington, Kent, is celebrated for its distinguished academic standards and storied tradition of success. This blog post aims to equip potential students and their parents with vital information about the St. Olave's Grammar School 11+ Secondary Transfer Tests, which are crucial for admission into this prestigious institution.

What Is St. Olave's Grammar School?

What is the prestige of st. Olave's?

St. Olave's Grammar School is among the top-rated grammar schools in the United Kingdom, known for its rigorous academic environment and consistent record of success.

What is the admission process?

Admission to St. Olave's requires passing the 11+ Secondary Transfer Test, which evaluates the academic capabilities and potential of the students. This test is the first step in a multi-tiered selection process.

What are details of the 11+ secondary transfer test?

What are written exam components?

The 11+ Secondary Transfer Test at St. Olave's consists of:

- Mathematics: This section includes multiple-choice questions designed to test mathematical understanding and application.

- English: This section tests comprehension and grammar through multiple-choice questions.

- Reasoning: This part assesses logical and verbal reasoning skills through multiple-choice and non-multiple-choice questions.

The written exam is conducted in September of the year preceding admission.

What is the interview process?

Following the written exam, candidates undergo an interview aimed at assessing their personal qualities, interests, and motivation. This step is crucial as it helps the school understand the applicant beyond their academic achievements.

What are preparation tips for the 11+ exam?

What Is the Format and Content?

To effectively prepare for the 11+ exam, students should:

- Familiarize themselves with the test format.

- Understand the content areas covered in the exam.

What are resources and support?

St. Olave's offers various resources to aid students in their preparation, including:

- Practice exams to simulate the test environment.

- Revision guides that outline key topics.

- Guidance and support from experienced faculty and staff.

What should you do next?

The 11+ Secondary Transfer Test at St. Olave's Grammar School is a demanding assessment that requires thorough preparation and a strategic approach. By understanding the exam format, utilizing available resources, and maintaining robust study habits, candidates can enhance their chances of success and join the ranks of St. Olave's esteemed student body.

What else is worth reading?

What can this guide not tell you about a particular school?

There is no national 11+ exam. Each school or local authority sets its own test, dates and admissions criteria, and republishes them every year, so the detail here can go out of date within a cycle. Confirm against the school’s own admissions policy and gov.uk school admissions before you rely on any date.

Every school publishes its own rule, and the national position is short:

“All schools have admission criteria to decide which children get places.” — gov.uk, School admissions

Where can you check this at source?

There is no national 11+ exam. Each grammar school or local authority sets its own test, dates and admissions criteria, and publishes them in an admissions policy that changes year to year. Always confirm with the school directly, then check the national rules: