At The Happy Scholar, we are proud to support students in achieving success for entry to the City of London Girls’ School (CLGS). Our dedicated team of specialist tutors has a strong track record of helping students gain admission to top-tier independent schools. We understand that CLGS is looking for academically exceptional and well-rounded students who are curious, motivated, and prepared to thrive in a rigorous academic environment.

City of London Girls’ School (CLGS): Overview

City of London Girls’ School, established in 1894, is a prestigious independent school located in the heart of London. It offers a comprehensive education for girls aged 7 to 18, combining academic excellence with personal development and a wide range of extracurricular activities. CLGS is renowned for its strong academic reputation, preparing students for top universities such as Oxford, Cambridge, and other leading institutions worldwide.

In 2024, CLGS continued to demonstrate its commitment to excellence with outstanding academic achievements. The school reported exceptional A-Level results, with over 60% of students achieving A* or A grades. At GCSE, over 85% of students attained grades 8 or 9, showcasing their academic strength and readiness for further challenges.

2024 Academic Achievements:

In 2024, CLGS students showcased their academic prowess through:

• A-Level Results: More than 60% of students secured A* or A grades, solidifying the school’s status as one of the top-performing schools in the UK.
• GCSE Results: Over 85% of students achieved grades 8 or 9, reflecting their strong preparation and academic readiness for future studies.

11 Plus Entry to City of London Girls’ School: Essential Details

Entry to City of London Girls’ School is highly competitive, with limited places available each year. The admissions process is designed to identify candidates who demonstrate exceptional academic potential, strong character, and a well-rounded approach to learning.

Admissions Overview:

• Entry Points: The main entry point for the Senior School is at 11+, although entry is also available at 7+ and 16+.
• Exams and Interviews: The 11+ entry is based on entrance exams, academic records, and interviews.
• Vacancies: While occasional openings may arise in other year groups, these are typically announced with short notice.

Open Days at City of London Girls’ School:

Attending an Open Day is a valuable opportunity for prospective students and their families to learn more about CLGS’s ethos, facilities, curriculum, and extracurricular offerings. Open Days are typically held during the autumn and spring terms and include tours, presentations, and opportunities to speak with current students and staff. Due to the high demand for places, early booking is recommended.

What to Expect in the 11 Plus Exam at CLGS:

The 11 Plus entrance exam at CLGS is designed to assess candidates’ academic skills and potential. It is intellectually demanding and aims to identify students who will excel in the school’s rigorous academic environment.

Entrance Exam Overview:

• CEM Computer Test (Stage 1): This is an on-screen, timed cognitive ability test that evaluates candidates’ verbal, non-verbal, and numerical reasoning skills. This test helps the school identify students who meet the academic criteria for further assessment.
• English Exam: The English exam assesses reading comprehension and analysis, requiring candidates to understand and interpret passages and demonstrate critical thinking. It may also include a creative writing task, testing imagination, structure, and language use.
• Mathematics Exam: The math test evaluates problem-solving abilities and mathematical reasoning. Questions include arithmetic, algebra, and multi-step problems, and candidates must show all working steps to receive full marks.
• Interview: Shortlisted candidates are invited to an interview that typically lasts about 30 minutes. This informal discussion provides insight into the candidate’s intellectual curiosity, independent thinking, and overall character.

Preparing for City of London Girls’ School 11 Plus Entrance Exams:

To excel in the competitive 11 Plus entrance exam, effective preparation is essential. Here are ways parents can support their child:

Focus on Reasoning Skills:

Encourage practice with targeted verbal and non-verbal reasoning books and online resources. These exercises help improve analytical thinking and prepare students for the CEM computer test. Regular timed practice is beneficial for building familiarity with the exam format and developing speed and accuracy.

Strengthen Writing Skills:

Promote a reading habit that includes a variety of high-quality literature. Discussing the themes, language, and writing style of the material helps improve comprehension and critical thinking. Practice creative writing tasks with a focus on clear structure, varied sentence forms, and effective use of language.

Develop Math Skills:

Ensure proficiency in Key Stage 2 mathematics, with a focus on problem-solving and multi-step questions. Emphasise the importance of showing all working steps for full marks. Regular timed math practice will help build speed and confidence.

Interview Preparation:

Practice mock interviews to help your child become comfortable discussing topics and answering questions thoughtfully. Encourage them to articulate their ideas clearly, showcase independent thought, and demonstrate genuine enthusiasm for their interests.

Additional Preparation Strategies:

Create a structured study plan that balances preparation for English, mathematics, and reasoning. Devote more time to areas where your child needs the most support and ensure consistent practice over weeks and months to avoid last-minute cramming and reduce exam stress. Engage in activities such as book clubs, debates, or creative writing workshops to enhance analytical thinking and communication skills, which will benefit both the written exams and interviews.

Balancing Study and Preparation:

Maintain a balanced schedule that dedicates time to all exam components. Prioritise areas that require more focus and ensure regular practice to build long-term retention and reduce exam-day anxiety. Consistency and dedication are essential to feeling prepared and confident.

For more information about City of London Girls’ School, visit – www.cityoflondongirlschool.org.uk.

For expert guidance and detailed preparation tips for the City of London Girls’ School 11 Plus entrance exam, contact us to learn more about our dedicated CLGS tutoring services.