Lancaster Girls' Grammar School 11+ Guide

A detailed look at Lancaster Girls' Grammar School including past 11+ papers and practice 11+ papers.

About Lancaster Girls' Grammar School

Lancaster Girls' Grammar School is a selective secondary school in Lancashire. For children to get into Lancaster Girls' Grammar School they need to pass the school's 11+ entrance test. Hence, Lancaster Girls' Grammar School is a traditional grammar school, one of only 163 remaining in England.

Nestled in the heart of Lancaster, Lancaster Girls' Grammar School (LGGS) is a beacon of academic excellence and holistic development. As a selective academy with a rich history, LGGS has garnered a reputation for nurturing bright minds and empowering young women to reach their full potential. With a steadfast commitment to fostering an inclusive community, the school celebrates diversity and creates a welcoming environment where every student feels valued and supported.

All images © Lancaster Girls' Grammar School.
All images © Lancaster Girls' Grammar School.

At LGGS, the curriculum is thoughtfully designed to equip students with a comprehensive education that spans across various disciplines. From the intricacies of social and natural sciences to the beauty of humanities and beyond, the school's academic program is tailored to maximize each student's skills and knowledge. The dedicated faculty goes above and beyond to ensure that students are well-prepared for the challenges of further education and the world beyond the classroom.

All images © Lancaster Girls' Grammar School.
All images © Lancaster Girls' Grammar School.

Beyond the realm of academics, LGGS offers a vibrant tapestry of extra-curricular activities that cater to a wide range of interests. Whether it's delving into the world of coding, exploring the intricacies of Latin, cultivating a green thumb in the gardening club, or developing leadership skills in the Combined Cadet Force (CCF), students have ample opportunities to pursue their passions and discover new talents. These activities not only enrich the educational experience but also foster a sense of camaraderie and personal growth.

All images © Lancaster Girls' Grammar School.
All images © Lancaster Girls' Grammar School.

The school's state-of-the-art facilities, including the expansive Library and Learning Resource Centre (LRC) and the cutting-edge Fitness Suite, provide an optimal environment for learning and development. These resources enable students to fully immerse themselves in their studies, enhance their soft skills, and cultivate a lifelong love for learning. With its unwavering dedication to academic excellence, holistic development, and inclusive values, Lancaster Girls' Grammar School is a testament to the transformative power of education.

Lancaster Girls' Grammar School is a girls-only grammar school.
Lancaster Girls' Grammar School is a girls-only grammar school.

School Information

Below you will find further information about Lancaster Girls' Grammar School together with their admissions contact details.

Address
Lancaster Girls' Grammar School,
Regent Street,
Lancaster,
Lancashire
LA1 1SF
School Website
Telephone 01524581661
Email Address info@lggs.lancs.sch.uk
Gender Girls only
Total Year 7 Places 140
Total Pupils (Girls/Boys) 1006 (1006 Girls / 0 Boys)
Headteacher Mr Christopher Beard

Lancaster Girls' Grammar School is a girls only school. It is also an academy, meaning the school is run independently by a trust or sponsor and is directly funded by the central government (not the local authority).

In total 1,006 pupils attend Lancaster Girls' Grammar School and it's led by the Headteacher, Mr Christopher Beard.

Lancaster Girls' Grammar School Location

Below you will find a map showing the school's location:

GCSE & A-Level Subjects

Below you will find a complete list of GCSE and A-Level subjects offered to pupils at Lancaster Girls' Grammar School for the 2022-23 academic year.

GCSE Subjects Offered
  • English Language (143 pupils)
  • Mathematics (142 pupils)
  • English Literature (141 pupils)
  • Chemistry (125 pupils)
  • Biology (125 pupils)
  • Physics (123 pupils)
  • History (80 pupils)
  • Geography (61 pupils)
  • Religious Studies (60 pupils)
  • Computer Studies/Computing (53 pupils)
  • German (52 pupils)
  • Spanish (52 pupils)
  • Art & Design (46 pupils)
  • Drama & Theatre Studies (44 pupils)
  • French (34 pupils)
  • Design & Technology (19 pupils)
  • Applied Engineering (17 pupils)
  • Physical Education/Sports Studies (17 pupils)
  • Science: Double Award (16 pupils)
  • Music (11 pupils)
A-Level Subjects Offered
  • Biology (66 pupils)
  • Chemistry (61 pupils)
  • Mathematics (57 pupils)
  • Psychology (34 pupils)
  • History (30 pupils)
  • English Literature (24 pupils)
  • Art and Design (21 pupils)
  • Geography (20 pupils)
  • Religious Studies (16 pupils)
  • Physics (13 pupils)
  • Computer Studies / Computing (12 pupils)
  • English Language (11 pupils)
  • Mathematics (Further) (10 pupils)
  • Business Studies:Single (10 pupils)
  • Drama and Theatre Studies (9 pupils)
  • German (7 pupils)
  • Spanish (6 pupils)

Lancashire 11+ Information

In order to get into Lancaster Girls' Grammar School, children need to pass the Lancashire 11+. This 11+ test is written by GL Assessment for use by the school's admissions process.

Lancashire 11+ Subjects & Structure

The Lancashire 11+ requires children to complete tests in the following subjects:

  • English
  • Maths
  • Verbal Reasoning

The 11 plus exam for admission to Lancaster Girls' Grammar School assesses prospective students across three key areas: English, Maths, and Verbal Reasoning. The examination, which is consistent with other grammar schools in Lancashire, is provided by GL Assessment.

The format of the Lancashire 11 plus exam is entirely multiple-choice. Students will be given separate answer sheets to mark their responses, which are then electronically evaluated for accuracy and completeness.

By testing students' abilities in these fundamental subjects, the 11 plus exam aims to identify those who demonstrate the necessary academic aptitude and potential to thrive in the challenging and stimulating environment offered by Lancaster Girls' Grammar School.

Other Schools using Lancashire 11+

As well as Lancaster Girls' Grammar School, several other schools also use Lancashire 11+. These are:

Lancashire 11+ Marking Process

The reality of 11+ tests, selective education and academic institutions such as Lancaster Girls' Grammar School is that only children with particularly high marks are admitted. Hence why it is important that children perform well in their 11+ papers.

Different schools (and different 11+ tests) have different marking processes. Some tests are marked in person, some remotely, while others utilise computer-based optical recognition technologies for quickly marking multiple-choice answer sheets.

Most 11+ tests are multiple-choice and marked electronically but still some remain that are marked by teachers or examiners.
Most 11+ tests are multiple-choice and marked electronically but still some remain that are marked by teachers or examiners.

Many 11+ tests are age-standardised to ensure younger children are not disadvantaged (i.e. their marks may be moderated depending on the month in which they were born). While creative writing papers can be used as tie-breakers, multiple-choice tests in Maths, Comprehension, Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning normally make up the bulk of a child's marks. The specific details and weightings can vary from year to year.

It's worth remembering that once children's 11+ tests are being marked, the admissions process is completely outside of the parents' control. Hence, parents should not worry themselves about whether their child has got a place!

Lancashire 11+ Pass Mark

The pass mark for the Lancashire 11+ changes every year and isn't generally made public knowledge. This is due to the academic strength of the children taking the test varying and how challenging the test ends up being (as well as plenty of other smaller variables).

Stop worrying! Once the 11+ marking has started the admissions process is out of your control.
Stop worrying! Once the 11+ marking has started the admissions process is out of your control.

Hence, as a vague rule-of-thumb, it's recommended that children aim for roughly 75-80% in their practice tests. Whilst this won't guarantee them a place at Lancaster Girls' Grammar School, it's a ballpark exam result figure for successful candidates.

Lancashire 11+ Key Dates for your Diary

Here are all the important dates for the Lancashire 11+ tests (to get into Lancaster Girls' Grammar School) as well as other relevant dates.

Date Event Calendar Link
20/05/2024 Lancaster Girls' Grammar School Exam Registration Opens
27/06/2024 Lancaster Girls' Grammar School Open Evening
13/09/2024 Lancaster Girls' Grammar School Exam Registration Closes
28/09/2024 Lancaster Girls' Grammar School Entrance Exam
12/10/2024 Lancaster Girls' Grammar School Exam Results
31/10/2024 Secondary School Applications Close At 5pm
03/03/2025 Secondary School National Offers Day

Although the utmost care has been taken to gather these dates, parents should treat them as a guide and check with Lancaster Girls' Grammar School as they may well change.

Ofsted Information

Lancaster Girls' Grammar School was last inspected by Ofsted on 21/09/2022 and the inspection only lasted one day. Ofsted published their report on 09/01/2023, declaring that the school was 'Good'. This information is summarised in the table below along with a link to the full report.

Lancaster Girls' Grammar School obtained <strong>Good</strong> in their last Ofsted inspection in 2022.
Lancaster Girls' Grammar School obtained Good in their last Ofsted inspection in 2022.

Last Ofsted Report Data

Date Inspected Inspection Duration (Days) Reporting Date Rating Full Report
21/09/2022 1 09/01/2023 Good Full Report

Ofsted Report Summary

Lancaster Girls' Grammar School was inspected by Ofsted on 21 September 2022 and received an overall rating of Good. The school demonstrated outstanding performance in the areas of behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and sixth form provision. The quality of education and leadership and management were both rated as good.

The inspection results highlight the school's commitment to fostering a positive learning environment and supporting students' personal growth. The outstanding ratings in behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and sixth form provision indicate that Lancaster Girls' Grammar School excels in nurturing well-rounded individuals and preparing them for success beyond their secondary education.

While the school received a good rating in quality of education and leadership and management, there may be opportunities for further improvement in these areas. Nevertheless, the overall good rating demonstrates that Lancaster Girls' Grammar School provides a solid educational foundation for its students.

GCSE & A-Level Performance

Below are the individual GCSE and A-Level performance tables for Lancaster Girls' Grammar School per subject. Note that this may include children taking GCSEs early (e.g. taking a language GCSE in Year 10) or indeed a child in Year 12 retaking a GCSE.

GCSE Results Information (2022-23)

Subject Total Pupils Grades Achieved
U 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Art & Design 46 - - - - - 2 6 15 9 14
Biology 125 1 - - - 2 9 25 19 32 37
Chemistry 125 1 - - 1 6 9 23 18 32 35
Computer Studies/Computing 53 - - 1 1 1 7 17 12 7 7
Design & Technology 19 - - - - - - 2 1 6 10
Applied Engineering 17 - - 1 1 - 2 2 3 6 2
English Language 143 - 1 - 3 4 17 32 36 34 16
English Literature 141 - - - 1 1 16 27 39 35 22
French 34 - - - 6 4 3 4 8 3 6
Geography 61 - - - 1 2 4 7 15 22 10
German 52 - - - - 3 9 15 12 5 8
History 80 - - - 3 3 9 18 16 16 15
Mathematics 142 - - - 1 6 19 23 34 40 19
Music 11 - - - - 2 2 2 3 - 2
Physics 123 - - - - 7 14 22 17 31 32
Religious Studies 60 - 1 - - - 4 12 12 20 11
Spanish 52 5 - - 8 1 9 6 9 6 8
Drama & Theatre Studies 44 - - - - 2 6 14 15 4 3
Physical Education/Sports Studies 17 - - - - - 3 4 3 2 5
Science: Double Award 16 - - - - - - - - - -

A-Level Results Information (2022-23)

Subject Total Pupils Grades Achieved
U E D C B A A*
Art and Design 21 - - - - 9 5 7
Biology 66 - 2 5 9 19 17 12
Business Studies:Single 10 - 1 - 1 5 3 -
Chemistry 61 - 2 8 7 12 21 9
Computer Studies / Computing 12 - 1 2 4 2 2 1
Drama and Theatre Studies 9 - - - 1 4 2 2
English Language 11 - - - - 8 2 1
English Literature 24 - - 1 6 7 7 3
Geography 20 - - 1 1 9 7 1
German 7 - - 2 - 5 - -
History 30 - - 1 10 11 4 4
Mathematics 57 - 2 8 4 15 14 13
Mathematics (Further) 10 - 2 - - 1 2 5
Physics 13 - 1 - 2 4 2 4
Psychology 34 - 2 2 7 11 9 3
Religious Studies 16 - - 1 2 10 1 2
Spanish 6 - - - - 3 1 2

Past 11+ Paper Downloads

Unfortunately, Lancaster Girls' Grammar School has not made any of their past 11+ papers publicly available.

Practice 11+ Paper Downloads

Here are some superb free 11+ practice papers that children can download and use to help prepare for the Lancashire 11+ Ensure you double-check with Lancaster Girls' Grammar School which subjects and topics your child's 11+ tests are in to ensure you prepare for the right tests.

GL Assessment

These Free GL 11+ Practice Papers were published by GL Assessment themselves. They remain useful and we would encourage parents to download and use them with their children.

Exam Board Subject Answer Sheet Question Booklet Marking Scheme (Answers)
GL AssessmentEnglish
GL AssessmentVerbal Reasoning
GL AssessmentMaths
GL AssessmentNon-Verbal Reasoning

CGP

These Free GL 11+ Practice Papers were published by CGP and we thank them for granting us permission to distribute them. They are up to date and extremely useful.

Exam Board Subject Answer Sheet Question Booklet Marking Scheme (Answers)
GL AssessmentMaths
GL AssessmentEnglish
GL AssessmentVerbal Reasoning
GL AssessmentNon-Verbal Reasoning

These Free CEM 11+ Practice Papers were published by CGP and we thank them for granting us permission to distribute them. Grammar schools no longer use CEM for any of their 11+ entrance tests. However, as a general practice tool these tests remain useful.

Exam Board Subject Answer Sheet Question Booklet Marking Scheme (Answers)
CEMMaths
CEMVerbal Reasoning
CEMNon-Verbal Reasoning

FAQ

Is Lancaster Girls' Grammar School hard to get into?

Yes, Lancaster Girls' Grammar School is hard to get into! Children need to pass their challenging 11+ entrance test (with a high pass mark) and there's tough competition with many other children trying to get a place for Year 7.

Is Lancaster Girls' Grammar School a private school?

No, Lancaster Girls' Grammar School is one of the few remaining academically selective, state-funded grammar schools left in England.

Is Lancaster Girls' Grammar School free?

Yes, Lancaster Girls' Grammar School is free, there are no school fees. Thus, sending your child to Lancaster Girls' Grammar School won't cost you any money.

How do I get my child into Lancaster Girls' Grammar School?

You need to apply to take the school's 11+ test. Contact Lancaster Girls' Grammar School for how up to date information on how to apply (it may be automatic or it may require some forms to be filled in). More information on their 11+ entrance test can be found here.

Is Lancaster Girls' Grammar School a girls-only school?

Yes, Lancaster Girls' Grammar School is a girls-only school.

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