About South Wilts Grammar School
South Wilts Grammar School is a selective girl's grammar school located in Salisbury, Wiltshire. Admission into Year 7 is based on performance in the 11+ entrance examination, followed by the school's published admissions criteria.
Quick facts:
School type: Girl's grammar school
Location: Salisbury, Wiltshire
Year 7 places: 160
Entrance exam: GL Assessment 11+
Catchment area: Yes (designated area)
Key Dates for 2027 Entry
Families considering South Wilts Grammar School should be aware of the following timeline:
1 June 2026 - Test registration opens
1 September 2026 - Test registration closes
19 September 2026 - 11+ familiarisation session
26 September 2026 - 11+ test day
Mid-October 2026 - Test results released to parents
31 October 2026 - Deadline to submit secondary school application
1 March 2027 - National Offer Day
Dates can change, so it's always sensible to double-check with the school or local authority.
How the Application Process Works
South Wilts Grammar School selects pupils based on academic ability. To be considered, your child must:
Register for the 11+ test during the official registration window.
Sit the entrance exam on the scheduled test date.
Meet the qualifying standard set by the school.
List South Wilts Grammar School on your local authority's common application form by the October deadline.
Achieving the qualifying score does not automatically guarantee a place. If more children qualify than there are available places, allocation is decided using the school's oversubscription criteria.
What Does the South Wilts 11+ Test Include?
The entrance assessment is taken in a single sitting, with short breaks between papers. It consists of three components:
Mathematics (50 minutes): Based mainly on the Year 5 national curriculum, with some early Year 6 content
English (45 minutes): Reading comprehension, spelling, punctuation, and language skills
Verbal Reasoning (50 minutes): Logical thinking, patterns, and problem-solving
All sections are designed to assess academic potential rather than rote learning.
How Places Are Allocated
After results are issued in October, children who meet the required standard are considered for admission. If applications exceed available places, the school applies its oversubscription rules, which are published in its admissions policy.
Parents must still submit the common application form on time for their child to be considered, even if they pass the test.
Catchment Area Explained
South Wilts Grammar School operates a designated catchment area around Salisbury. This includes surrounding villages such as Winterbourne Stoke, Whiteparish, Downton, and Bowerchalke.
When scores are tied, distance from the school is often used as a deciding factor, with priority given to pupils living closer.
Families living outside the area should carefully consider daily travel arrangements, as journey length can have a real impact on a child's routine, energy levels, and after-school time.
Supporting Your Child's 11+ Preparation
Preparing for the 11+ doesn't need to take over family life. Small, consistent steps can make a big difference.
Create a steady routine
A simple weekly study routine helps children build skills gradually and reduces last-minute pressure. Focus on understanding concepts rather than rushing through practice.
Practise exam-style questions
Familiarity with multiple-choice formats and time limits can help children feel calmer on test day. Occasional timed practice builds confidence and stamina.
Encourage regular reading
Daily reading supports vocabulary, comprehension, and reasoning skills. A mix of fiction, non-fiction, and different writing styles is especially helpful.
Focus on progress, not perfection
Confidence grows when effort and improvement are recognised. Tracking strengths and identifying weaker areas early allows for more targeted support.
Final Thoughts
South Wilts Grammar School is a popular and competitive option for families in Wiltshire. Understanding the admissions process early, keeping track of key dates, and supporting your child with calm, consistent preparation can make the journey far less stressful.
This guide is published by Rurera as an independent informational resource and is not affiliated with South Wilts Grammar School or any exam provider.
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