11+ Preparation for Torbay's Grammar Schools

GL-style practice for Torquay Boys' Grammar School, Torquay Girls' Grammar School and Churston Ferrers Grammar School in Devon.

GL Assessment 11+: key facts

Typical test date: Early-mid September of Year 6
Papers: Typically 2–3 papers depending on school
Duration: Approximately 45–60 minutes per paper
Subjects: English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning (GL-style)
Indicative qualifying threshold: Varies year to year; a qualifying standardised score is generally required, with the exact threshold set by each school and dependent on the cohort
Registration window: Spring–summer of Year 5 (varies by school; check current deadlines)

Why Torbay is different

Torbay is one of the few areas in the South West with grammar schools, offering three well-regarded options: Torquay Boys' Grammar School, Torquay Girls' Grammar School and the co-educational Churston Ferrers Grammar School. Together they make the 11+ a meaningful route for local families.

Testing in the area follows a GL Assessment-style format, covering English, Maths and reasoning. Because GL question types are well documented, families can prepare effectively by focusing on the standard formats and building confidence across each subject strand.

While Torbay is less pressured than the London super-selectives, entry is still competitive and places are limited. A qualifying standardised score is generally needed, so consistent preparation through Year 5 and into Year 6 gives children the best chance of securing a place.

How the GL Assessment 11+ is structured

GL Assessment-style testing covering English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning.
Question types follow standard GL formats, which are well documented and predictable.
Tests are typically taken in early Year 6, ahead of the main secondary application deadline.
Each school sets its own qualifying standard, which can vary with the cohort each year.
Registration is handled by each school, so confirm the current arrangements before applying.

Notable grammar schools in Torbay

3 grammar schools.

Torquay Boys' Grammar School
Torquay Girls' Grammar School
Churston Ferrers Grammar School (co-educational)
Colyton Grammar School (nearby, Devon)

How to prepare your child for the Torbay 11+

Focus on the standard GL question types. Because Torbay uses GL-style testing, children benefit from becoming fluent in the recurring formats for Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning, alongside solid English comprehension and Maths practice from Year 5.

Build breadth and confidence rather than cramming. With three schools and a GL-style format, a steady programme of short, regular practice across all strands tends to produce more reliable results than intensive late preparation, and it keeps children calmer on test day.

Practise under timed conditions and confirm each school's arrangements. Verifying the current test dates and registration deadlines for each Torbay grammar school ensures your child is preparing for the right format and sitting at the right time.

Frequently asked questions about the Torbay 11+

Which grammar schools are in Torbay?

Torbay has three grammar schools: Torquay Boys' Grammar School, Torquay Girls' Grammar School and the co-educational Churston Ferrers Grammar School.

What exam board do Torbay grammar schools use?

Testing in the area follows a GL Assessment-style format, covering English, Maths and reasoning, with well-documented and predictable question types.

What subjects are tested for the Torbay 11+?

The GL-style assessments typically cover English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning, so children should practise across all four strands.

Is Churston Ferrers Grammar School co-educational?

Yes. Churston Ferrers Grammar School admits both boys and girls, while the two Torquay grammar schools are single-sex.

How competitive is the Torbay 11+?

It is less pressured than the London super-selectives but still competitive, as places are limited. A qualifying standardised score is generally required.

When is the Torbay 11+ taken?

Tests are typically taken in early Year 6, usually around September, ahead of the main secondary application deadline. Confirm dates with each school.