Preparing for the Sutton Grammar School 11+ exam is a significant step in your child’s academic journey. As one of the UK’s most respected selective schools, Sutton Grammar School demands not only academic excellence but strategic preparation and confidence under pressure.
Whether this is your first time navigating the 11+ process or you’re returning with a younger sibling, this comprehensive guide offers a step-by-step breakdown of everything you need to know, including exam structure, timelines, preparation strategies, and how to make informed choices.
About Sutton Grammar School
Sutton Grammar School is a highly selective grammar school in South London. It is consistently ranked among the top-performing state schools in the country. Academic standards are rigorous, and competition for places is intense.
The school’s admissions process is based on a two-stage 11+ exam, and successful candidates typically rank within the top 15–20% of test-takers.
Sutton Grammar School Exam Format: Two-Stage Process
Stage 1 – Selective Eligibility Test (SET)
Administered in partnership with the Sutton Grammar School Consortium, this first stage is standardised across multiple schools in the area.
- Format: Multiple Choice
- Subjects: English and Mathematics
- Duration: Approximately 45 minutes per paper
- Typically held in early September (Year 6). In 2025, it will happen on Tuesday, September 16th, and registrations are opened until August 1, 2025.
Stage 2 – Sutton Grammar School – Specific Examination
Stage 2 focuses on deeper understanding and application of concepts.
- Format: Standard Written Format (no multiple choice)
- Subjects:
- English: Comprehension and Creative Writing
- Maths: Extended problem-solving questions
- Typically held in October (Year 6). In 2025, it will happen on Saturday, October 4th.
Note: Final rankings and admission offers are based solely on Stage 2 performance, although passing Stage 1 is essential to qualify.
Key Timeline for Parents
- March – April (Year 5): Begin structured preparation
- June – July (Year 5): Register for SET via the Sutton Grammar School Consortium website
- September (Year 6): Stage 1 SET examination
- October (Year 6): Stage 2 Sutton-specific written exams
- March (Year 6): National Offer Day — results and school placements issued
Sutton Grammar School Exam Content and How to Prepare
English
Stage 1 (SET):
- Comprehension: Vocabulary, inference, deduction
- Questions are multiple-choice
Stage 2:
- Written comprehension with structured responses
- Creative writing: Story prompts or descriptive tasks
Recommended Resources:
- CGP and Bond comprehension books
- Weekly timed practice with past papers. You can access them creating your account here.
- Vocabulary flashcards and inference drills
- Creative writing structure: planning, sentence variety, figurative language
Mathematics
Stage 1 (SET):
- Core arithmetic
- Word problems with logical reasoning
- Questions in multiple-choice format.
Stage 2:
- Extended multi-step problem-solving
- Questions require written workings and explanations
Recommended Resources:
- KS2 Maths Mastery books
- Mental maths drills and problem-solving packs
- Topic revision (fractions, percentages, algebra, geometry)
- Past papers with written solutions and corrections
The Role of Mock Exams
Mock exams are essential for:
- Replicating test-day pressure
- Identifying specific areas for improvement
- Building exam technique and confidence
- Tracking performance over time
Look for mock providers who:
- Align content with Sutton’s format
- Offer full score reports and peer comparison
- Include time-tracking insights and marking schemes
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Neglecting Stage 2: While many focus heavily on SET, remember that only Stage 2 scores count toward offers.
- Over-reliance on multiple-choice prep: Ensure your child also practises written formats.
- Underestimating creative writing: Marks are often lost due to poor planning or lack of expression.
- Cramming last-minute: Build a sustainable study routine throughout Year 5.
Resources for Sutton Grammar School Exam Preparation
We offer expertly designed resources tailored to Sutton Grammar’s exam structure:
Click here to access the free mock tests
Final Recommendations for Parents
- Begin early and build gradually — avoid panic-based preparation
- Focus on depth of understanding, not just speed
- Use mock feedback to personalise revision
- Balance practice with rest and confidence-building activities
With the right strategy, tools, and mindset, your child can approach the Sutton Grammar 11+ exams with clarity and calm.
We’re here to support every step of the way.
📌 Ready to take a Sutton-specific mock exam with full feedback?
