St Paul’s Girls’ School (SPGS) Admissions Guide
St Paul’s Girls’ School (SPGS), located in Brook Green, Hammersmith, London, is one of the UK’s leading independent schools, consistently ranking at the top for academic excellence and university placements.
Established in 1904 by the Worshipful Company of Mercers, the school is renowned for its rigorous curriculum, exceptional teaching, and outstanding pastoral care. The Senior School provides an enriching environment that fosters intellectual curiosity, independence, and leadership skills, preparing students for success in higher education and beyond.
Why is SPGS So Competitive?
Each year, a significant number of students apply for the 11+ entry at SPGS, competing for a limited number of places. The school’s exceptional academic results, comprehensive co-curricular programme, and strong pathways to Oxbridge and Ivy League universities make it one of the most sought-after independent schools in London.
Given this high level of competition, it is crucial for parents and students to understand the entrance process, exam structure, and effective preparation strategies to maximise their chances of success. This comprehensive guide offers a step-by-step breakdown of the 11+ admissions process, assisting you in navigating each stage with clarity and confidence.
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Executive Summary and School Specifications Overview
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| School Name | Saint Paul's Girls School |
| Type | Independent Day School |
| Gender | Girls |
| Age Range | 11–18 years |
| Exam Board | School-Specific Papers |
| Key Exam Subjects | English, Mathematics, CEM Computer Test |
| Registration Deadline | Early November |
| Exam Date | January |
| Interview Required | Yes |
| Interview Date | January |
| Fees | Subject to change. See fees page |
| Financial Assistance | Means-tested bursaries and scholarships available |
| Admissions Contact | Contact SPGS via their email: admissions@spgs.org |
| Location | Brook Green, Hammersmith, London |
| Catchment | No catchment; open to all applicants |
| Transport Links | Nearest Train: Hammersmith Station |
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Key Highlights of SPGS
Outstanding Academic Results: SPGS consistently ranks among the top independent schools in the UK for GCSE and A-level performance, with a strong record of Oxbridge and Ivy League placements.
Rigorous but Supportive Learning: A challenging yet nurturing environment that fosters academic curiosity and independent thinking.
Exceptional Facilities: State-of-the-art science laboratories, libraries, IT suites, performing arts spaces, and sports facilities.
Diverse Co-Curricular Activities: A wide range of clubs and societies, including debating, music, drama, and STEM programmes.
World-Class University Destinations: Graduates frequently attend Oxbridge, Ivy League, and Russell Group universities.
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Why Choose Saint Pauls Girl's School?
From academic excellence and personal growth to exceptional opportunities – SPGS provides students with a challenging yet enriching education that encourages them to think critically, express ideas clearly, and develop strong leadership skills. The school’s structured yet flexible curriculum ensures that students are prepared for higher education and future careers in competitive industries.
SPGS offers an exceptional pastoral system, supporting students academically, socially, and emotionally. Every student is encouraged to reach their full potential, with teachers and mentors providing personalised guidance and support throughout their journey. The school’s commitment to holistic development ensures that students are well-equipped for both academic success and personal fulfilment.
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Introduction to the 11+ Examination for SPGS
4.1How Competitive is the SPGS 11+ Exam?
SPGS’s 11+ selection process is highly competitive, with the school receiving numerous applications for a limited number of places. The pass mark is high, and only the strongest candidates progress to the interview stage. Structured preparation, consistent practice, and expert guidance are essential to maximise your child's chances of success.
The SPGS 11+ exam consists of three main components:
- CEM Computer Test: An on-screen, time-limited cognitive ability test assessing verbal, numerical, and non-verbal reasoning skills.
- English Paper: Close reading of a passage of literary prose, with comprehension, language analysis, and imaginative writing tasks.
- Mathematics Paper: Problem-solving questions designed to assess a candidate’s logical reasoning and numerical skills.
Candidates who perform well in the written exam will be invited for an interview in January.
4.2Entrance Exam Papers
If your child needs support with their entrance examinations, Ivy Education offers difficulty-tiered 11+ exam papers to help with the SPGS 11+ Entrance Exams.
Understanding the 11+ Exam Components
English
The English exam tests a student’s ability to analyse texts, write fluently, and use accurate grammar and vocabulary. It includes:
- Reading comprehension – Extracting key details, analysing language, and interpreting themes.
- Grammar and vocabulary – Identifying word meanings, correcting sentence structures, and using appropriate punctuation.
- Creative writing – Writing imaginative stories or persuasive essays with clarity and structure.
Mathematics
The Maths exam covers Key Stage 2 topics, including:
- Arithmetic – Fractions, decimals, percentages, and mental maths.
- Problem-solving – Multi-step questions requiring logical reasoning.
- Geometry & Algebra – Shapes, measurements, sequences, and equations.
Verbal Reasoning
This section assesses word associations, logic, and problem-solving ability. It tests a student’s ability to:
- Identify patterns and sequences.
- Recognise word relationships and synonyms.
- Process information quickly and accurately.
If you would like more information on the 11+ Exam, then check out our Ultimate Guide to the 11+ Exam.
Understanding the CEM Entrance Exam
The CEM (Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring) Computer Test is a crucial component of the SPGS 11+ selection process. This adaptive, online test is designed to assess a candidate’s cognitive abilities rather than subject-specific knowledge. It evaluates a student’s:
- Verbal Reasoning – Understanding and manipulating language, synonyms, antonyms, and comprehension skills.
- Numerical Reasoning – Problem-solving, arithmetic fluency, and logical number relationships.
- Non-Verbal Reasoning – Identifying patterns, sequences, and spatial awareness through visual problem-solving.
Structure of the CEM Test:
- The test is taken on a computer under timed conditions.
- The questions become progressively harder depending on the student’s performance.
- Sections may include multiple-choice answers or require typed responses.
How to Prepare for the CEM Exam:
- Develop Strong Reading Skills: Encourage regular reading to enhance vocabulary and comprehension.
- Practice Mental Arithmetic: Quick calculations and problem-solving will aid numerical reasoning.
- Use Online Practice Tests: Familiarise your child with computer-based testing and question styles.
- Enhance Logical Thinking: Puzzle books and non-verbal reasoning exercises can help develop pattern recognition skills.
Since the CEM test is adaptive and assesses innate reasoning ability, preparation should focus on broad cognitive development rather than rote memorisation.
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Registration and Application Process
6.1Key Dates
The registration deadline for SPGS typically falls in early November, giving families ample time to complete the required forms and prepare supporting documents. Be sure to check the official admissions page for the exact deadline, as dates may vary slightly each year.
Entrance Exam
The entrance exam is typically scheduled for January. Ensure your child is familiar with the exam format and well-prepared to perform confidently on the day.
Interviews
Interviews are held in early January for shortlisted candidates. This is a vital stage of the admissions process, offering the school an opportunity to assess a candidate’s communication skills, personality, and enthusiasm for learning. In recent years, SPGS has refined its interview process to include more open-ended, discussion-based questions aimed at evaluating critical thinking and genuine interest in the school. Families should prepare their child for this key moment by encouraging them to speak confidently about their achievements, hobbies, and aspirations.
Application Procedure
- Complete the online registration form.
- Submit the registration fee.
- Provide supporting documents such as previous school reports.
For more details, visit the SPGS Admissions Page.
Need Help With Your SPGS Application?
Our team of experts can support your family along every step of the admission process for SPGS. You can speak to our Admissions Team for a free initial discussion.
For more information, visit our School Consultancy Page.
Preparation Strategies
Students should begin by practicing past papers and mock exams to familiarise themselves with question formats. Professional tutoring can provide targeted support to strengthen weaker areas. Establishing a consistent study routine that balances schoolwork and entrance exam preparation is crucial. Additionally, sitting full-length mock exams under timed conditions can improve time management skills and help reduce test anxiety.
Study Materials: Use practice papers and sample tests available on online. You can also use Ivy Education's 11+ Entrance Exam Papers. Our 11+ papers are difficulty tiered, and our hardest papers are specifically designed for schools such as SPGS.
Tutoring Options: Professional tutors can provide tailored support, focusing on weaker areas identified through practice tests. Ivy Education offers 11+ Tuition to help your child with their 11+ Entrance Exams for SPGS.
Our tutors can help by:
Identifying weaker areas and providing targeted support.
Teaching exam techniques and time management strategies.
Boosting confidence through one-on-one tuition and structured learning plans.
Here is how one would typically prepare for the 11+:
Year 4 – Early Year 5: Build strong fundamentals in English and Maths.
Mid-Year 5: Introduce exam-style questions, timed practice, and Verbal Reasoning exercises.
Year 6 (Final 3–6 months before the exam): Focus on past papers, full-length mock exams, and refining weaker areas.
Consistency is key. Regular timed practice under exam conditions will help students build stamina, confidence, and familiarity with question formats.
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Written Examination Guidelines
What to Bring: Candidates should bring pencils, erasers, a ruler, and any other permitted tools. It is important to check the school’s guidelines for any additional materials allowed.
Arrival Time: Plan to arrive at the exam venue at least 30 minutes early. This will give your child time to settle, locate the examination room, and relax before starting.
Exam Conduct: Candidates must carefully read all instructions provided at the start of the exam. Time management is critical, so it is recommended to divide the time proportionately across sections. Encourage your child to answer all questions, even if unsure, as partial credit may be given for working out in certain sections.
Breaks: If breaks are scheduled, ensure your child uses the time to refresh and refocus. They should avoid discussing answers with peers during these breaks.
School Interview Preparation Guidelines
Key Skills: The school interview process is designed to evaluate a candidate's confidence, critical thinking ability, and communication skills. It is not solely academic but also seeks to understand a student’s personality, interests, and potential contributions to the school.
Preparation Tips: Practice mock interviews with family members or professional tutors. Encourage your child to speak clearly and confidently about their hobbies, academic interests, and achievements. Discuss current events or books they’ve recently read to prepare them for any topical or abstract questions.
Common Questions: Students may be asked why they want to attend SPGS, what subjects they enjoy most, and how they contribute to their current school or community. Encourage honest and thoughtful responses.
Presentation and Etiquette: Remind your child to maintain eye contact, listen carefully to the interviewer, and respond respectfully. Dressing smartly and arriving on time are also important.
Additional Support: Consider booking a mock interview session through Ivy Education’s School Mock Interviews. Led by former heads and senior staff, these sessions replicate real interview scenarios, offering valuable feedback and strategies to help your child feel prepared and confident.
What to Expect in the Interview
For many candidates, the interview provides an opportunity to showcase their personality, enthusiasm for learning, and extracurricular interests, all of which are essential to being a well-rounded student at SPGS.
During the interview, students typically meet with a senior teacher or admissions staff member in a one-on-one setting. The conversation is designed to be engaging and thought-provoking, often beginning with discussions about academic interests, personal achievements, and extracurricular activities. Candidates are encouraged to talk about their favourite subjects, hobbies, and any projects or challenges they have recently undertaken. This allows the interviewer to gauge how the student approaches learning, problem-solving, and independent thinking.
Alongside general discussions, students may be presented with problem-solving exercises, abstract questions, or scenarios requiring logical reasoning. These are designed to test a candidate’s ability to think on their feet and articulate their thoughts clearly. It is not about finding the "right" answer but rather demonstrating structured thinking and curiosity.
Common questions that students may encounter
Why do you want to join SPGS?
Candidates should be prepared to articulate what they admire about the school, its curriculum, and the opportunities it offers. A well-researched response that reflects genuine enthusiasm will make a strong impression.
What subjects interest you the most, and why?
The interviewer may ask about a favourite academic subject to understand what excites the student about learning and how they engage with different areas of knowledge.
Tell us about a book you recently read.
This question assesses reading comprehension, critical thinking, and articulation of ideas. Students should be ready to discuss their favourite books, what they learned from them, and any personal reflections.
Describe a time when you faced a challenge and how you overcame it.
Many interviews include character-focused questions to evaluate resilience, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities. Candidates should give an example that highlights perseverance, creative thinking, or teamwork.
What hobbies or extracurricular activities are you passionate about?
SPGS values students who contribute to the school community beyond academics. Discussing interests in sports, music, drama, debating, coding, or other activities shows a well-rounded personality.
How To Best Prepare for the SPGS Interview Exam
To help students prepare effectively for the 11+ interview process, we have written a dedicated guide on common school interview questions. Written by a former head of Westminster Under, this resource offers valuable insights into the types of questions students may be asked, as well as strategies for answering them confidently and articulately.
A successful interview is not about memorizing rehearsed answers but engaging in a natural conversation that showcases curiosity, thoughtfulness, and enthusiasm. Candidates should practice speaking clearly, structuring their responses, and providing examples that highlight their strengths. Mock interviews, such as those offered by Ivy Education, can be an excellent way to build confidence and refine communication skills before the big day.
By preparing thoroughly, students can enter the SPGS interview with confidence, ready to present their best selves and demonstrate why they would thrive at the school.
Post-Examination Process
After the written exam and interviews, parents will receive notification of the results within four to six weeks. SPGS carefully reviews each candidate’s performance before making a final decision.
What if my child is successful?
Congratulations! Successful applicants will receive an offer letter, which must be reviewed and accepted by the given deadline. Families should confirm their child’s place promptly, as demand is high, and spaces are limited. A deposit payment may be required to secure the offer.
What if my child didn't pass?
If a student is not successful, it is possible to request feedback from the school. This can be helpful in understanding areas for improvement if reapplying for 16+ entry or considering other top independent schools. Many families explore alternative options with later application deadlines or look into tailored academic support to strengthen their child’s chances in future applications.
What if my child ends up on a waiting list?
For candidates who are placed on the waiting list, it is important to stay in contact with the admissions office and express continued interest in the school. Occasionally, spaces become available, and waitlisted students may be offered a place at a later stage. If you would like more information on school waiting lists, check out our guide.
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Additional Considerations
SPGS offers financial assistance in the form of bursaries and scholarships. Bursaries are means-tested and awarded to students from families who require financial support, while scholarships are granted based on outstanding academic ability or exceptional achievements in music, drama, or sports. The school’s fees and bursary eligibility criteria can be found on the SPGS bursaries page.
Attending an open day or school visit is highly recommended for prospective families. Visiting the school provides an opportunity to explore its facilities, meet teachers, and gain a better understanding of the school’s ethos. Parents and students can ask questions directly and experience the learning environment first-hand, helping them make a well-informed decision.
When choosing the right school, families should consider factors such as academic performance, co-curricular offerings, class sizes, and pastoral care. Every child thrives in a different environment, so ensuring the best fit for their strengths and personality is key to their long-term success and happiness.
Useful Resources & Contacts
Explore SPGS Admissions: Visit the SPGS 11+ Admissions Page page for official details, including key dates, application steps, and updates.
Transform Exam Preparation: Ivy Education offers bespoke 11+ Tuition tailored to your child’s strengths and areas for improvement. With expert tutors, engaging resources, and a focus on building confidence, Ivy Education ensures your child is fully prepared for the challenges of the 11+.
Consult Experts: Navigating the admissions journey can feel overwhelming, but Ivy Education’s Consultancy Services are here to guide you every step of the way! Our team provides personalised advice and support, ensuring that families make the right choices for their child’s future. Contact us today!
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FAQs
Prospective students must register by early November. The entrance examination, comprising English, Mathematics, and a CEM Computer Test, is held in January. The CEM test assesses verbal, numerical, and non-verbal reasoning skills in a computer-based format. Successful candidates are then invited for an interview later that month.
Preparation should include practising past papers to familiarise themselves with question formats, engaging in regular reading to enhance comprehension skills, and developing problem-solving abilities in mathematics. Additionally, becoming comfortable with computer-based testing is beneficial due to the CEM component, which requires quick and accurate responses under timed conditions.
Yes, SPGS offers means-tested bursaries and scholarships to support students who demonstrate exceptional academic potential or talent in specific areas. Families are encouraged to contact the admissions office for detailed information on eligibility and the application process.
SPGS seeks candidates who demonstrate intellectual curiosity, independent thinking, and enthusiasm for learning. The interview assesses a student's ability to engage in thoughtful discussion, articulate ideas clearly, and exhibit a genuine passion for their interests
SPGS maintains small class sizes, typically around 20 students per class, allowing for personalised attention and a supportive learning environment.
SPGS offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including music ensembles, drama productions, sports teams, debating societies, and various clubs focusing on interests such as robotics, art, and environmental initiatives.
No, SPGS is a day school and does not provide boarding facilities. All students are expected to commute daily.
The school provides robust pastoral care through a dedicated team of tutors, counsellors, and mentors. Regular well-being programmes and workshops are conducted to support students' emotional and mental health.
Ivy Education offers a comprehensive range of difficulty-tiered 11+ Exam Papers tailored to help students steadily prepare for entrance assessments. These expertly designed papers provide practice in English, Mathematics, and Reasoning, giving students the tools to excel.
If a child is not offered a place at SPGS, families may consider reapplying for 13+ entry, exploring other top schools, or seeking feedback from the admissions team to identify areas for improvement.
Yes, students can reapply for 13+ or Sixth Form entry. SPGS welcomes applications for these later stages, and some students find they are better suited to joining the school at a later point in their education.
SPGS graduates often proceed to prestigious universities, including Oxbridge, Ivy League institutions, and other top-tier universities worldwide, pursuing a diverse range of disciplines.
While SPGS values family connections, each applicant is assessed individually based on merit. Having a sibling at the school does not guarantee admission.
BY Alastair
Alastair Delafield is the Managing Director and founder of Ivy Education.
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