At Bridgewater School, Year 7 marks the beginning of a carefully guided journey built on high expectations, strong values and individual care. We understand that families want their child to feel happy, secure and inspired, while also laying firm academic foundations for future GCSE and Sixth Form success.
An investment in the right Senior School environment at 11+ can shape confidence, ambition and achievement for years to come.
What to expect in Year 7
Year 7 at Bridgewater provides:
- A structured and supportive transition from primary school
- A two-form intake with smaller class sizes, providing individualised attention and tailored support
- High academic expectations from the very start
- A broad, balanced and engaging curriculum
- An extensive enrichment programme
- Strong pastoral care rooted in the school’s core values of inclusivity, intellect, integrity and inspiration.
Students are encouraged to develop excellent study habits, intellectual curiosity and resilience. We place equal importance on character development and academic progress, ensuring that children grow not only in knowledge but also in confidence and independence.
By the end of Year 7 our students feel secure in their new environment, proud of their achievements and motivated for the years ahead.
Year 7 entrance examination procedures
The formal entrance exam for transfer and entry into Year 7 of Senior School takes place in the autumn term prior to the year of entry. Entrance procedures for September 2026 will therefore commence Monday 3rd November 2025 through to Friday 23rd January 2026.
The tests will include a computer-based assessment in English and Maths together with a piece of free writing and an interview. These entrance procedures will provide us with age-related results, standardised scores and a piece of free writing. All procedures are to be completed by Friday 23rd January 2026, following which the results will then be collated and placed offered by the beginning of March 2026.
An induction day for all new Year 7 students takes place in the summer term prior to September intake.
Next steps
If you would like to register your interest in your child sitting our entrance procedure for Senior School, please download the registration form and return to Mrs Andrea Johnson. Each family will be contacted individually and the testing will take place each morning and afternoon between November and January, with children grouped according to their primary schools.
Please note: as these are standardised and age-related tests, no preparation or revision is needed.
If you have any questions regarding our Senior School entrance procedures, please contact Mrs Andrea Johnson on 0161 794 1463, or email johnsona@bwslive.co.uk and we will provide you with all the necessary information.
We are delighted that you are considering Bridgewater for your child’s senior years and, all being well, look forward to welcoming you in September.
