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Gloucestershire (FSCE format): format, schools and practice papers
A plain summary of how the Gloucestershire (FSCE format) 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 and English.
- Published
- Paper names Adventure, Beacon and Compass; cross-curricular content up to the end of Year 5; multiple-choice papers answered by shading ovals in black pen; a short-answer paper with one digit or one capital letter per box; no penalty for wrong answers; instructions given by audio. These follow the FSCE candidate guide.
- Reported
- Gloucestershire’s 2028-entry test is planned for Saturday 3 July 2027, in the summer term of Year 5, with registration from noon on 8 February to noon on 19 March 2027. It has three papers of 45 to 60 minutes each.
- Reported
- Scores are age-standardised, with rank-order qualifying.
- Not published
- Question counts, about 45 minutes per paper, four answer options per question and the mix of subjects in Compass. These are not published.
- Not published
- The FSCE guide also describes a fourth, creative paper; whether Gloucestershire schools use it is unconfirmed, and sources disagree on three or four papers.
The writing task
The FSCE guide describes a creative-writing paper (Discovery), but whether Gloucestershire schools use it is unconfirmed.
Schools that use this test
- Denmark Road High School, Gloucester
- Marling School, Stroud
- Pate’s Grammar School, Cheltenham
- Ribston Hall High School, Gloucester
- Sir Thomas Rich’s School, Gloucester
- Stroud High School, Stroud
- The Crypt School, Gloucester
How to prepare
- Practise filling in a separate answer sheet, so marking the right box becomes automatic and no time is lost on test day.
- 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.
- 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 Gloucestershire (FSCE format)
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 in the Adventure, Beacon and Compass format, with 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 Gloucestershire (FSCE format): 53 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 Gloucestershire (FSCE format) test?
It covers maths and English. Paper names Adventure, Beacon and Compass; cross-curricular content up to the end of Year 5; multiple-choice papers answered by shading ovals in black pen; a short-answer paper with one digit or one capital letter per box; no penalty for wrong answers; instructions given by audio. These follow the FSCE candidate guide.
Is there a writing task?
The FSCE guide describes a creative-writing paper (Discovery), but whether Gloucestershire schools use it is unconfirmed.
Are these the real Gloucestershire (FSCE format) 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 each school’s website. Dates and arrangements change from year to year.
Helpful guides
- 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+?
- How to use 11+ mock tests well
- A balanced Year 5 summer 11+ revision plan
No practice material can promise a pass or a place. Places depend on scores, the school's rules and often distance.