St Michael's Catholic Grammar School

Papers and rounds

1. Paper 1

   Verbal reasoning, Non-verbal reasoning, English, Maths

   Entrance tests

   Written tests involve verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, English and mathematics; applicants are ranked by score.

What the test includes

Official admissions documents

Quick summary

• Overall effectiveness: St Michael's Catholic Grammar School was rated Outstanding in every area. Inspectors described very high expectations, pupils who embrace academic curiosity, exemplary behaviour, strong safeguarding and a distinctive ethos that encourages pupils to act on issues they care about.
• Quality of education: Leaders have built a curriculum that makes pupils think hard and goes beyond national curriculum expectations. Pupils study two modern foreign languages and Latin in key stage 3, revisit knowledge regularly, and benefit from clear explanations by expert teachers.
• Behaviour and attitudes: Pupil behaviour is exemplary, with bullying rare and dealt with quickly when it happens. Older pupils support younger ones as mentors and transport buddies, and pupils feel safe, happy and confident that staff will help if needed.
• Personal development: The report highlights pupils taking practical action on issues such as male mental health and violence against women, including creating a Peace Garden. Visits at home and overseas, such as a trip to France, add cultural and language experiences.
• Leadership and management: Leaders have established a strong safeguarding culture, with regular training for staff and governors, clear reporting procedures and detailed follow-up records. They also work with external agencies and provide pastoral and counselling support when pupils need help.
• Sixth form provision: The sixth form shares the school's Outstanding judgement. The evidence available is mainly whole-school, but it points to a demanding curriculum, regular checks on understanding and a culture of academic curiosity that extends through the school.