Bexley Grammar School 11 Plus Guide
Bexley Grammar School is one of the most sought after selective schools in South East London. Located in Welling, within the London Borough of Bexley, the school was founded in 1955 and has built a strong reputation for academic excellence and a well-rounded education. It is a co-educational grammar school, which makes it a popular choice for many families preparing for the 11 plus exam.
If you are considering the Bexley Grammar School for 11 plus admissions, it is important to understand how the admissions process works, what the exam involves, and how your child can prepare effectively.
Bexley Grammar School Admissions
Admissions to Bexley Grammar School are based on performance in the Bexley Selection Test, commonly known as the 11 plus exam. The school is part of the London Borough of Bexley selective system, meaning one test is used for all grammar schools in the area.
Here is how the process works:
Children take the Bexley 11 plus exam in Year 6, usually in September
Scores are standardised to ensure fairness across candidates
Students who meet the required standard are considered selective
Final school allocation depends on score, preferences, and availability of places
It is important to note that passing the exam does not always guarantee a place, as Bexley Grammar School is often oversubscribed.
If you want a clearer understanding of how places are allocated, you can explore our grammar school admissions guide, where we explain the full process in detail.
Bexley Grammar School 11+ Exam
The Bexley Grammar School 11+ exam is part of the Bexley Selection Test, which typically assesses:
English comprehension
Mathematics
Verbal reasoning
Non-verbal reasoning
The exam is designed to test a child’s ability to apply knowledge, think logically, and solve problems under time pressure. It is not just about what your child knows, but how well they can perform in exam conditions.
How to Prepare for the Bexley Grammar School 11+ Exam
Preparation plays a crucial role in success. With increasing competition each year, a structured approach can make a significant difference.
Many families choose to start early with our 11 plus tuition, where we help students build strong foundations in English, maths and reasoning. This ensures they are confident as they move closer to the exam.
1. Focus on Core Skills
Your child should be comfortable with reading comprehension, grammar, and numerical problem solving. These are key areas tested in the exam.
2. Practise Regularly
Consistency is more important than intensity. Regular practice helps students become familiar with question types and improve accuracy. You can also support your child’s preparation with our 11+ practice papers, which are designed to reflect real exam-style questions and build confidence over time.
3. Use Mock Exams
At Pass 11 Plus Grammar, our 11 plus mock exams give students the chance to experience real exam conditions. This helps them manage time, reduce anxiety, and understand their strengths and weaknesses.
4. Get Expert Support
Working with an experienced 11 plus tutor can help your child improve faster by focusing on the areas that need the most attention.
Bexley Grammar School Catchment Area
The Bexley Grammar School catchment area is not defined by a strict geographical boundary in the same way as some other grammar schools.
However, there are a few key points to understand:
Priority is often given to students within the London Borough of Bexley
Distance from the school may be considered if places are limited
A significant number of students travel from neighbouring areas
Because there is no fixed catchment, competition can be high, with applicants coming from a wide range of locations.
When considering this school, it is also important to think about daily travel time and how manageable the journey will be for your child.
Bexley Grammar School 11+ Exam Pass Marks
Bexley Grammar School does not publish a fixed pass mark. Instead, the process works as follows:
Scores are standardised across all candidates
A selective threshold is set each year
Students above this threshold are eligible for grammar school places
In general, students aiming for Bexley Grammar School should be performing strongly across all subjects.
As a guideline:
Consistent scores of around 75-85% or higher in practice tests often indicate a good level of readiness
Higher scores improve the chances of securing a place, especially in competitive years
Keep in mind that meeting the required standard does not guarantee admission, as final offers depend on ranking and available places.
Final thoughts
Applying for the Bexley Grammar School can feel challenging, but with the right preparation and an understanding of the process, you can approach it with confidence.
Start early, focus on consistent practice, and make use of realistic exam preparation to give your child the best chance of success.
At Pass 11 Plus Grammar, we support families throughout this journey with expert guidance, structured learning and exam focused practice. If you would like personalised support or help planning your child’s preparation, contact us today.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many children sit the Bexley 11+?
Around 6,000 children typically sit the Bexley 11+ each year, competing for places across the borough’s grammar schools.
What is the Bexley Grammar 11+ exam?
The Bexley 11+ is a shared entrance test used by all Bexley grammar schools, assessing English, maths, verbal reasoning, and non-verbal reasoning.
What is the pass mark for 11+ Bexley?
There is no fixed pass mark. A standardised score of around 210–220+ is often considered selective, but this can vary each year.
Jag Singh
Founder, Pass 11 Plus Grammar
Mr Singh is the founder of Pass 11 Plus Grammar, with over 30 years of teaching experience. Having overcome academic setbacks himself, he is passionate about ensuring no child struggles alone. His approach focuses on personalised support, strong foundations, and building confidence. He has helped students achieve outstanding results in 11+ and GCSE examinations
