As with most Catholic Grammars, Loreto Grammar School manages its own admissions assessment. Verbal Reasoning and English papers are based on the GL (Granada Learning) framework, whereas the Maths paper is prepared by the school. It is worth mentioning that there is often an extra-curricular faith-based requirement for the first round of places.

The GL Framework

GL (Granada Learning, previously NFER) is one of the two leading 11+ exam bodies in the UK, alongside CEM.

GL papers are built from a question bank of c15,000 entrance questions and follow a pattern of repeating question styles. For these reasons it is generally agreed that GL entrance exams are easier to revise for than their less predictable CEM cousins.

Each subject is usually covered in a dedicated paper lasting between 45 and 50 minutes. Questions are majority multiple choice but there are usually at least some open answer questions and it is important to prepare for both. Multiple choice answers are recorded on a separate, computer-marked answer sheet, answers recorded on the paper itself are not valid.

Loreto Maths Paper

Historically the Maths paper at Loreto has been a mix of both multiple choice and open answer questions, covering KS2 numeracy and mathematics.

Let’s look at what we know

• GL papers are built from a shared question bank following repeated question styles

• With practise, it is possible to familiarise with the types of questions in a GL exam

• Most questions are multiple choice with the answers recorded on a separate answer sheet

• There are usually some open answer questions which should be prepared for

• The Loreto Maths paper is historically a mix of both multiple choice and open answer

Choosing the right practice papers

Children should practise timed, time-weighted multiple-choice papers across both English, Maths and Verbal Reasoning, and time open answer papers in Maths.

• Multiple Choice – English & Grammar

• Multiple Choice – Maths & Numeracy

• Verbal Reasoning

• Open Answer – Maths & Numeracy