How to prepare for the St Olave’s 11+

St Olave's Grammar School in Orpington is a boys' grammar school (with a mixed sixth form) and one of the most competitive in the country. It has 124 Year 7 places, plus up to 4 chorister places.

Key dates for September 2027 entry

• Registration: 8 June to 29 June 2026 (midday)
• Stage 1: Friday 18 September 2026. Outcome by mid-October.
• Stage 2: Friday 13 November 2026

Stage 2 is after the 31 October application deadline, so put St Olave's on your application form before you know the final result.

What are the tests?

• Stage 1: a one-hour multiple-choice test of English, verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning and Maths. The top 450 boys go through.
• Stage 2: separate English and Maths papers, with more demanding questions.

How are places given?

Places are given solely on performance in the entrance tests. There is no catchment area, no sibling priority and no feeder schools.

How to prepare

• Cover all four areas for Stage 1, and build real speed.
• For Stage 2, go beyond the Year 5 syllabus: harder Maths problems, careful comprehension and strong writing.
• Our Year 5 Extension classes are designed for Stage II exams like this.

Source: St Olave's Grammar School key dates, FAQ and entrance test pages. Always check the school's website.