A state grammar school in Torbay for boys and girls, with entry at 11+. Here is the test it uses, what is in it and how to prepare.
The Torbay grammar schools and the selective stream at The Spires College share one GL Assessment test in September of Year 6: an English paper and a maths paper of about 50 minutes each. There are no verbal or non-verbal reasoning papers. The schools do not say how answers are recorded; GL papers are usually multiple choice.
| Stage | Paper | How it is answered | Prism practice paper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Test day | English | Multiple choice | 45 questions, 50 minutes |
| Test day | Maths | Multiple choice | 50 questions, 50 minutes |
Test setters rarely publish how many questions a paper has, so the question counts are the length of Prism’s practice papers; timings follow the setter’s published guidance where there is any. Arrangements change from year to year: always check them with the school or local authority.
The Torbay 11+ (English and maths) covers maths and English. Most families start steady preparation in Year 4 or early Year 5, building accuracy first and speed later, then sit timed papers through the summer before the test, which usually takes place in September.
For maths, secure the Key Stage 2 arithmetic, fractions, ratio and problem solving before moving to the multi-step questions that separate the strongest candidates.
For English, read widely every day and practise comprehension, vocabulary, spelling, punctuation and grammar; selective tests reward precise word knowledge.
Written by Prism in the style of the test, not taken from any school’s papers.
Which of these numbers is a common factor of 18 and 63?
Answer: C, 9
A common factor divides into both exactly: 18 ÷ 9 = 2 and 63 ÷ 9 = 7.
Which sentence is punctuated correctly?
Answer: A, My sister, who is twelve, loves chess.
The Spires College uses the Torbay 11+ (English and maths), which tests maths and English. It is answered with multiple choice. Check the school’s admissions page for the current arrangements.
Schools do not publish pass marks. As a guide, Prism suggests a child aims to score around 78% consistently in practice for a selective school. This is Prism’s own estimate, not a figure from the school, and no score guarantees a place.
Most families start in Year 4 or early Year 5, then practise timed papers during the summer before the test, which usually takes place in September.
Practise straight away at your child’s school year in maths and English, with verbal and non-verbal reasoning for the 11 Plus, and every answer explained. A free check, whenever you like, shows what to practise next and builds a weekly plan, for their year or for your target schools. Parents follow progress free.
Try five questions free Start freePrism Learning is not affiliated with The Spires College. Details are indicative; always check admissions arrangements with the school.