Bexley Grammar Schools: Your Complete 11+ Guide
Key Takeaways
- Bexley has four grammar schools including two co-educational, one boys' and one girls' school
- The Bexley selection test covers English, maths and reasoning in September of Year 6
- The test is separate from the Kent 11+, families must register for each independently
- All four schools are heavily oversubscribed with distance as a key tie-breaker
The London Borough of Bexley is one of the few areas within Greater London that retains a selective grammar school system. With four grammar schools serving the borough, families in south-east London and north-west Kent have access to outstanding selective education, but competition for places is fierce. This guide covers the Bexley grammar schools in detail, explains the selection test format, walks through the admissions process and provides practical advice on preparation. Whether you live in Bexleyheath, Sidcup, Erith or the surrounding area, understanding how the Bexley system works is essential for giving your child the best chance of success.
Bexley's four grammar schools use a borough-specific selection test covering English, maths and reasoning. Registration opens in May, the test is in September, and results come in October. All schools are oversubscribed, and the system is separate from neighbouring Kent.
The Four Bexley Grammar Schools
Bexley has four grammar schools: Bexley Grammar School (co-educational), Beths Grammar School (boys), Chislehurst and Sidcup Grammar School (co-educational), and Townley Grammar School for Girls. Each school has a distinct character and set of strengths.
Bexley Grammar School, located in Welling, is one of the highest-performing co-educational grammar schools in the country. It offers a broad curriculum with particular strengths in mathematics, sciences and languages, and has a vibrant extracurricular programme.
Beths Grammar School in Bexleyheath is a boys' school with an excellent reputation for academic achievement and sport. The school combines strong academic rigour with a focus on developing well-rounded young men.
Chislehurst and Sidcup Grammar School is a co-educational school serving the western part of the borough. It has strong links with the local community and offers a comprehensive extracurricular programme including Duke of Edinburgh, Combined Cadet Force and numerous academic societies.
Townley Grammar School for Girls in Bexleyheath is known for its excellent pastoral support alongside outstanding academic results. The school places a strong emphasis on personal development and leadership opportunities for girls.
All four schools are heavily oversubscribed, and achieving the qualifying score is only the first step, oversubscription criteria then determine who receives an offer.
The Bexley Selection Test Format
Bexley uses its own selection test, which is administered in September of Year 6. The test is designed and managed by the London Borough of Bexley in partnership with a testing provider, and consists of papers covering English, mathematics and reasoning.
The English component tests reading comprehension through passage-based questions. Children must demonstrate the ability to retrieve information, make inferences, interpret vocabulary in context and identify the writer's techniques and purpose.
The mathematics paper covers the Key Stage 2 curriculum, with emphasis on number, fractions, decimals, percentages, ratio, measurement, geometry and problem-solving. Questions increase in difficulty through the paper, so effective time management is essential.
The reasoning element covers verbal and non-verbal reasoning. Verbal reasoning tests word relationships, codes, sequences and logical deduction. Non-verbal reasoning tests pattern recognition, spatial awareness, reflection and rotation.
Registration for the Bexley selection test typically opens in May, with a deadline in late June. Parents register online through the Bexley Council website. There is no fee to register. Results are released in October, ahead of the secondary school application deadline.
EdifyPod Nexus covers all question types that appear in the Bexley selection test, providing adaptive practice that adjusts to each child's ability level and targets their specific areas for improvement.
Preparation for the Bexley 11+
Effective preparation for the Bexley selection test requires a balanced approach across all three test areas, English, mathematics and reasoning. Starting in Year 4 and building gradually through Year 5 gives children the best foundation.
For English, the most powerful preparation is extensive reading. Children who read regularly and widely develop the vocabulary, comprehension skills and stamina that the test demands. Encourage your child to read challenging material, classic children's literature, quality non-fiction and newspaper articles all contribute to building comprehension skills.
In mathematics, focus on achieving fluency with core number skills. Times tables, mental arithmetic, fractions and decimals should all be practised regularly until they are second nature. Once the basics are secure, introduce more complex problem-solving and multi-step word problems.
Reasoning practice should begin in early Year 5. Both verbal and non-verbal reasoning contain question types that most children will not have encountered in their regular schoolwork, so systematic exposure and practice are essential. Start with untimed question sets and gradually introduce time limits as familiarity builds.
Mock exams from the spring of Year 5 are invaluable. They simulate real test conditions, build exam stamina and provide clear feedback on areas that need further work. After each mock, spend time reviewing incorrect answers, understanding why a mistake was made is the fastest route to improvement.
In the final weeks before the September test, focus on consolidation rather than new material. Keep practice sessions short, revisit common error patterns and ensure your child is well rested and confident. Explore structured preparation at edifypod.com/11plus for a programme tailored to the Bexley test.
Admissions Process and Choosing the Right School
The Bexley admissions process begins with registration for the selection test, which opens online in May. The test is held in September at allocated venues, and results are released in October. Parents then submit their secondary school preferences through the Bexley common application form by 31 October.
Families can list up to six preferences, mixing grammar and non-selective schools. It is strongly advisable to include at least one non-selective option to ensure a positive outcome regardless of the selection test result.
When choosing between the four grammar schools, consider factors beyond league table position. Visit each school during its open day, typically held in the autumn term of Year 5, and pay attention to the school's ethos, teaching style, pastoral support and extracurricular provision. Consider the journey from home, available transport and the daily commute time.
Oversubscription criteria vary between schools but typically include looked-after children, siblings, and distance from the school. Because Bexley borders Kent and Greenwich, some families may also wish to consider grammar schools in neighbouring areas, though separate tests and registration may be required.
National Offer Day is 1 March. The appeals process is available for families who do not receive their preferred school, and it is free and independent. Waiting lists operate until at least December.
EdifyPod Nexus helps families navigate this process by providing clear information on each school's requirements and offering targeted preparation aligned with the Bexley selection test format.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many grammar schools are in Bexley?
Bexley has four grammar schools: Bexley Grammar School, Beths Grammar School, Chislehurst and Sidcup Grammar School, and Townley Grammar School for Girls.
Is the Bexley 11+ the same as the Kent test?
No. Bexley operates its own selection test, which is separate from the Kent 11+. If you wish to apply to grammar schools in both areas, your child must sit both tests.
Do Bexley grammar schools give priority to Bexley residents?
Admissions criteria vary by school. Some Bexley grammar schools give priority to children living within the borough, while others use pure distance from the school. Check individual school policies.