Spalding Grammar School
At a Glance
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Boys Only
Places per year: 150
Competition: Medium
Ofsted Rating: Good
Spalding Grammar School
Spalding Grammar School (SGS) is a selective grammar school for boys situated in the market town of Spalding, Lincolnshire. Established in 1588, the school has a rich history of academic excellence and personal growth.
SGS educates boys aged 11 to 18, with a co-educational Sixth Form. The school is renowned for its strong academic performance, wide curriculum, and focus on preparing pupils for life after school. Alongside academic success, students enjoy numerous extracurricular opportunities in sport, music, drama, and leadership.
SGS is a member of the Lincolnshire Consortium of Grammar Schools, following the shared 11 Plus testing process for Year 7 admissions.
Location & Contact Info
Contact details, address and parking information for Spalding Grammar School
Ofsted Report
Ofsted report breakdown for Spalding Grammar School
Exam Format
Learn about the 11 Plus exam format at The Spalding Grammar School
Preparing for the 11 Plus
Help your child prepare with tips, exam papers, and featured tuition agencies
Key Dates
All key dates and application information for Spalding Grammar School
How to Apply
Information on the application process for Spalding Grammar School
FAQs
Frequently asked questions and answers for Spalding Grammar School
Schools Nearby
Search for other schools in the local area
Spalding Grammar School Key Information
The information on Spalding Grammar School such as address, contact details, parking, and important dates can be found below.
School Address
Full Address:
Spalding Grammar School, Priory RoadSpalding
Lincolnshire
PE11 2XH
Contact Information
Parking in the school
Spalding Grammar School does not offer on site parking. There are, however, several carparks available a short distance away.
Additional parking off site
- Car park at: 23 Bedford Pl, Spalding, PE11 1AS, 0.3 miles from Spalding Grammar School
- Car park at: 2a Sheep Market, Spalding, PE11 1BH, 0.3 miles from Spalding Grammar School
Spalding Grammar School Ofsted Report
Quick Summary
Overall rating: Good.
Academic strength: Pupils are motivated and achieve well across subjects, preparing them well for their future steps.
Teaching and curriculum: The curriculum is broad and ambitious, with strong delivery in most subjects, though some require further development
Behaviour and culture: Pupils display good behaviour, a respectful environment, and engage in a wide range of extracurricular activities.
Leadership and safeguarding: The school is well-led, with strong staff support and morale; safeguarding practices are effective and well-implemented.
Spalding Grammar School 11 Plus Exam Format
Admission to Year 7 is based on performance in the Lincolnshire 11 Plus exam, set and marked by GL Assessment.
Spalding Grammar School 11 Plus Exam: Overview
Paper One
Verbal Reasoning: The first test assesses word-based logic, vocabulary, and comprehension skills.
Paper Two
Non-Verbal or Spatial Reasoning: The second test focuses on visual patterns, problem-solving, and logical reasoning using shapes and images.
GL 11 Plus Assessment Criteria
| English | Maths | Verbal Reasoning | Non-Verbal Reasoning | Additional |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Pass Mark
The pass mark for entry into Spalding Grammar School is 220. This is a standardised score that is used to take into account factors such as age differences that may impact performance. Only after students from the feeder schools have been admitted will the order of merit be used to determine which applicants get a place.
Catchment Area
Spalding Grammar School uses a catchment area. The catchment area is Spalding and the feeder parishes of South Lincolnshire. Applicants from these places will be given greater priority as long as they have achieved the pass mark.
Additional Eligibility
- “Special Educational Needs”: Will be admitted
- “Education, Health and Care Plan”: Will be given a place upon application
- “Looked After Child”: Will be given a place
- Previously a “Looked After Child”: Will be given a place
Click here to find out more about Spalding Grammar School’s Admissions Policy
Preparing for the 11 Plus Test at Spalding Grammar School
Helping your child prepare for the 11 Plus can boost their confidence and readiness for the exam. Here are some useful strategies:
Useful Tips
Start Early
Begin preparation in Year 4 or the start of Year 5. This allows plenty of time for steady progress without creating too much pressure.
Use Exam Papers
Work through timed exam papers together to build familiarity with the question style and develop exam technique.
Target Weak Areas
Keep track of their performance and focus extra time on any topics or question types they find more difficult.
Encourage Daily Reading
A regular reading habit helps expand vocabulary, improve comprehension and boost analytical thinking – all vital for the 11 Plus.
Make Use of Online Resources
Digital learning tools can provide personalised practice and clear feedback to make study time more effective and engaging.
Best Chance of Success
Keeping preparation steady, organised and encouraging will help your child feel confident and well-prepared when exam day arrives.
Spalding Grammar School Exam Papers
11 Plus Mock Exams in Your Area
We’re currently working on setting up a network of local test centres to offer in-person 11 Plus mock exams that closely match the format used by Spalding Grammar School. These sessions will provide a valuable opportunity for your child to practise under real exam conditions, helping to build confidence and improve performance. Although this service isn’t available just yet, you can register your interest by completing the form below. We’ll get in touch as soon as mock exams become available in your area.
Spalding Grammar School’s Key Dates and Application Information
Key dates for the application process and exams, as well as important documentation to aid in these processes. The exam dates are different for those who attend Lincolnshire schools and those who don’t.
Test Registration Opens
Registration Deadline
Verbal Reasoning Test
Non-Verbal Reasoning Test
Results Issued
Common Application Form Deadline
Offer Day
Spalding Grammar School Application Process
To apply for a Year 7 place at Spalding Grammar School, families need to complete both the school’s registration form and the local authority’s application process.
Admissions Policy 2026
Make sure you read the Spalding Grammar School Admissions Policy PDF to ensure you and your child understand the process and eligibility criteria.
View Admissions PolicyRegister for the 11 Plus
Register through the Lincolnshire County Council website.
Visit Council WebsiteCommon Application Form (CAF)
Complete the CAF via your local authority website, listing Spalding Grammar School as one of your preferences.
Spalding Grammar School FAQs
Register for the 11+ via the Spalding Grammar School website by February. Then submit the Common Application Form (CAF) through your local authority.
The 11 Plus consists of two multiple-choice papers: Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal/Spatial Reasoning, both of which are 50 minutes long.
Entry is highly competitive, with around four applicants per available place. A score of 220 is required to qualify.
There is no fixed catchment area, but priority is given to pupils living within the designated transport area.