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Plymouth, Torbay and Devon: format, schools and practice papers
A plain summary of how the Plymouth, Torbay and Devon 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 Plymouth grammar schools moved from GL to Quest Assessments for the September 2026 tests: English (about 40 minutes) and maths (about 40 minutes), multiple choice, on two Saturdays in September. Devonport High School for Boys uses the same papers plus its own written English paper (reported, not confirmed).
- Reported
- The Torbay grammar schools share a GL-style test of English and maths, about 50 minutes each, multiple choice; some sources mention reasoning.
- Reported
- Colyton Grammar School sets its own Quest test on one day: English (about 40 minutes), maths (about 40 minutes) and extended writing (about 20 minutes).
- Reported
- Answers go on a separate answer sheet, and scores are set by each school or group. These details were collected from third-party sources in November 2026; schools’ own pages could not be checked.
- Not published
- The number of questions and the time for each paper (about 40 minutes each) and five answer options. These are not published.
The writing task
Colyton has an extended writing paper and Devonport High School for Boys is reported to add its own written English paper; the other schools test English and maths only.
Schools that use this test
- Churston Ferrers Grammar School Academy, Brixham
- Colyton Grammar School, Colyton
- Devonport High School for Boys, Plymouth
- Devonport High School for Girls, Plymouth
- Plymouth High School for Girls, Plymouth
- Torquay Boys’ Grammar School, Torquay
- Torquay Girls’ Grammar School, Torquay
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 Plymouth, Torbay and Devon
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 English and maths booklets and a writing task, for the Plymouth and Torbay grammar schools and Colyton, based on the published format, with answer sheets, explanations 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 Plymouth, Torbay and Devon: 58 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 Plymouth, Torbay and Devon test?
It covers maths, English and a writing task. The Plymouth grammar schools moved from GL to Quest Assessments for the September 2026 tests: English (about 40 minutes) and maths (about 40 minutes), multiple choice, on two Saturdays in September. Devonport High School for Boys uses the same papers plus its own written English paper (reported, not confirmed).
Is there a writing task?
Colyton has an extended writing paper and Devonport High School for Boys is reported to add its own written English paper; the other schools test English and maths only.
Are these the real Plymouth, Torbay and Devon 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.