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Sutton SET (Stage 1 and Stage 2): format, schools and practice papers
A plain summary of how the Sutton SET (Stage 1 and Stage 2) 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
- The Selective Eligibility Test (SET) is the shared first stage for the Sutton grammar schools and for the selective places at Greenshaw High School. It is two multiple-choice papers, maths and English, of about 45 minutes each, with five answer options and a separate answer sheet; there is no verbal or non-verbal reasoning.
- Reported
- The SET English paper has sections on spelling, two texts and comparing the texts; some questions ask for two answers.
- Reported
- Stage 2 is written-answer (not multiple-choice) English and maths, for children who pass the SET at schools that use it. No pass mark is published.
- Reported
- For 2027 entry: registration 1 May to 31 July 2026; SET on 15 September 2026; Stage 2 on 26 September (Nonsuch, Wallington High) or 3 October 2026 (Wilson’s, Wallington County, Sutton Grammar). Wallington High says 2028-entry registration opens on 1 May 2027.
- Not published
- The number of questions, the timings, and the content and marks of Stage 2 (reading 25 and writing 20; maths 60 marks). These are not published.
The writing task
Stage 2 English is a written paper; that it includes a writing task worth 20 marks is our assumption, as the content and marks are not published.
Schools that use this test
- Greenshaw High School (selective places), Sutton
- Nonsuch High School for Girls, Sutton
- Sutton Grammar School, Sutton
- Wallington County Grammar School, Wallington
- Wallington High School for Girls, Wallington
- Wilson’s School, Wallington
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.
- 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 Sutton SET (Stage 1 and Stage 2)
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 multiple-choice SET English and maths, written Stage 2 English and maths, answer sheets, 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 Sutton SET (Stage 1 and Stage 2): 61 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. £45.97 if bought separately.
Questions parents ask
What does the Sutton SET (Stage 1 and Stage 2) test?
It covers maths, English and a writing task. The Selective Eligibility Test (SET) is the shared first stage for the Sutton grammar schools and for the selective places at Greenshaw High School. It is two multiple-choice papers, maths and English, of about 45 minutes each, with five answer options and a separate answer sheet; there is no verbal or non-verbal reasoning.
Is there a writing task?
Stage 2 English is a written paper; that it includes a writing task worth 20 marks is our assumption, as the content and marks are not published.
Are these the real Sutton SET (Stage 1 and Stage 2) 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 admissions page. Dates and arrangements change from year to year.
Helpful guides
- 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
- 11+ test day checklist for parents
No practice material can promise a pass or a place. Places depend on scores, the school's rules and often distance.