INTRODUCTION:

Handsworth Grammar School was established in 1862 and is located in Birmingham. It provides a challenging academic environment for boys from Birmingham and the surrounding areas who pass the 11+ test. The school caters to both boys and girls and offers a supportive atmosphere for grades 11 through 16. In the Sixth Form, the school provides a diverse range of additional subjects; including humanities, languages, physical education, and creative arts, while prioritizing essential subjects such as science, math, and English. HGS is dedicated to the holistic development of its students and offers a variety of extracurricular activities to complement the curriculum, such as technological clubs, sports, music, and inter-form quizzes. These activities enable students to explore their interests and abilities beyond the classroom.

Handsworth Grammar School places a high priority on the arts and extracurricular activities. They organize various concerts and provide music lessons for multiple instruments, which results in the formation of several music groups. Additionally, students participate in enrichment experiences such as local field trips and international travel, and they contribute to charitable causes by organizing fundraising events. HGS takes pride in maintaining traditional values while embracing modern technological advancements to better serve the Birmingham region and its surroundings. With excellent performance in GCSE and A-level exams, consistently high standards, and an "Outstanding" rating from Ofsted in every area, Handsworth Grammar School is a remarkable example of academic excellence and overall growth.

ADMISSION GUIDELINES:

The eight grammar schools in Birmingham adhere to "The Grammar Schools of Birmingham Consortium"'s admission requirements. Only students who pass the entrance exam and meet the requirements will be considered for admission to Handsworth Grammar School.

According to the Consortium, candidates for admission must be chosen based on their age-standardized, combined 11 Plus exam score. Students must receive a minimal "qualifying score" on the exam to be admitted. However, parents should be aware that achieving the required score does not ensure a student's admission to Handsworth.

Oversubscription Criteria:

Cared for or previously cared for children.
Children residing closest to the school.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

Parents must register their kids by filling out an online application form to apply for a Year 7 spot at Handsworth Grammar School. Parents also have to fill out a Local Authority Preference form. A current passport-sized photo of the youngster is also required; parents can email it along with the necessary paperwork to complete the application.

The 11 Plus test results for their son will be sent to the parents in October, but the placements won't be known until March of the following year.

CATCHMENT AREA:

The following electoral wards' residential addresses determine the priority catchment area for Handsworth Grammar School for Boys:

Birmingham includes Oscott, Perry Barr, Soho, Holyhead, Kingstanding, Ladywood, Lozells, Birchfield, Edgbaston, Handsworth, Handsworth Wood, Newtown, North Edgbaston, and Jewellery Quarter.
Sandwell includes West Bromwich Central, Smethwick, Soho & Victoria, and St. Paul's.

EXAM FORMAT:

Both of the examination papers for the Handsworth Grammar School 11 Plus exam are roughly sixty minutes in length. Each timed segment of the papers covers the following topics:

English Comprehension
Verbal Reasoning
Mathematics
Non-verbal + Spatial Reasoning

Comprehension skills such as inference will be tested in the English Comprehension paper without any writing involved.

The Verbal Reasoning section evaluates vocabulary, logical thinking, and the use of the English language.

The Mathematics test assesses students' problem-solving ability and basic mathematical operations, covering topics such as numbers, measurements, geometry, algebra, and statistics.

Additionally, nonverbal and spatial reasoning tests will be included in the exam to measure students' intellect and reasoning.

Both papers will cover every topic, and age-standardized scores will be applied to all multiple-choice questions to ensure that no student benefits more than others based on their age.

PREPARATION AND TARGET TEST SCORES:

Many kids become nervous before taking the 11 Plus exam, but you can make sure your kid is comfortable on test day by giving them plenty of practice. An essential component of your son's Handsworth Grammar School 11+ preparation is the use of practice exam papers. Completing these papers within a set time frame is a tried-and-true, efficient revision technique. They strengthen a child's time management skills before the exam and provide your child with a better understanding of the format of the test.

The minimum admission score required by the school is 205. This is the minimal standardized score required to be considered for a position.