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Essex and Southend (CSSE): format, schools and practice papers
A plain summary of how the Essex and Southend (CSSE) works and how to prepare for it. Each detail says whether it is published by the organisers, reported by other sources, or not published at all. We last checked these details in November 2026.
What the test involves
Subjects: maths, English and a writing task.
- Reported
- Two written papers on the same day, English and maths, with no verbal or non-verbal reasoning. English is about 1 hour plus 10 minutes’ reading time, with comprehension of an unseen text and a continuous writing task; maths is about 1 hour, Key Stage 2 content, no calculator.
- Reported
- Answers are written on the paper rather than on a multiple-choice sheet, and working out is allowed. Each paper is marked out of 60; the two are equally weighted and then age-standardised.
- Reported
- For 2027 entry, registration ran from 12 May to 19 June 2026 and the test was on Saturday 19 September 2026. For 2028 entry, CSSE has said important dates will be published by Easter 2027 and registration will open in May 2027.
- Reported
- A minimum total standardised score of 303 has been reported for offers; each school applies its own admission rules and reaching the score does not guarantee a place.
- Not published
- The number of questions, the split of English marks (40 for reading, 20 for writing), the marks for each maths question and the writing mark scheme. These are not published.
- Reported
- Chelmsford County High School for Girls is reported to use a different test (FSCE) and is covered by the FSCE-format English and maths handbook instead.
The writing task
The English paper includes a continuous writing task that counts towards the English mark; our split of 20 marks for writing is our assumption.
Schools that use this test
- Colchester County High School for Girls, Colchester
- Colchester Royal Grammar School, Colchester
- King Edward VI Grammar School, Chelmsford, Chelmsford
- Southend High School for Boys, Southend-on-Sea
- Southend High School for Girls, Southend-on-Sea
- Westcliff High School for Boys Academy, Westcliff-on-Sea
- Westcliff High School for Girls, Westcliff-on-Sea
How to prepare
- Practise writing answers in full, showing working in maths and using evidence from the text in English: marks are given for method and explanation, not just the final answer.
- Practise a timed piece of writing every week or two: five minutes planning, then a clear opening, middle and ending.
- Sit full mock tests under timed conditions only every week or two, and spend the time in between on the question types that cost marks.
Practice papers for the Essex and Southend (CSSE)
Every question is original, written to the same types and level as the published format. Each option has a free sample, so you can check it suits your child first.
Four full mock tests with written English (comprehension and writing) and maths papers, mark schemes and a parent guide.
Four more full mock tests in the same format as Set 1, with new questions throughout, answer sheets, answers and the parent guide.
A revision handbook for the Essex and Southend (CSSE): 57 lessons teaching the methods for maths and English, with worked examples, practice questions, must-know lists and a 12-week plan.
Everything for this test in one download: Set 1 and Set 2 (eight full mock tests) and the revision handbook. £39.97 if bought separately.
Questions parents ask
What does the Essex and Southend (CSSE) test?
It covers maths, English and a writing task. Two written papers on the same day, English and maths, with no verbal or non-verbal reasoning. English is about 1 hour plus 10 minutes’ reading time, with comprehension of an unseen text and a continuous writing task; maths is about 1 hour, Key Stage 2 content, no calculator.
Is there a writing task?
The English paper includes a continuous writing task that counts towards the English mark; our split of 20 marks for writing is our assumption.
Are these the real Essex and Southend (CSSE) papers?
No. Real past papers are not usually published. Our papers are original and set out like the published format, so children know what to expect.
Where do I check dates and registration?
Always check with the CSSE website (csse.org.uk) and each school’s website. Dates and arrangements change from year to year.
Helpful guides
- 11+ English comprehension tips for parents
- 11+ creative writing: planning, openings and timing
- 11+ test providers explained: GL, Quest, FSCE and more
- When should my child start preparing for the 11+?
- What is verbal reasoning in the 11+?
No practice material can promise a pass or a place. Places depend on scores, the school's rules and often distance.