READY TO EXPLORE THE 11+ & 16+ GRAMMAR PATHWAY
Our Grammar Pathway provides a rigorous education to prepare pupils for grammar school entry and scholarship success, focusing on 11+ and 16+ exams. All pupils also join the Aspire Higher Programme for enrichment, leadership development, and personalised academic guidance.
PARTICIPATION
WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?
The 11+ & 16+ Grammar Pathway at Colchester Prep & High School is designed for academically able, motivated pupils.
Grammar Stream (11+): For Prep pupils or external entrants, supporting high achievers preparing for 11+ grammar school or scholarship exams.
Sixth Form Entry (16+): For pupils aiming for competitive university courses or careers, including opportunities such as the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and enrichment activities.
At every stage, pupils are supported and challenged to reach their full academic potential.
HOW DOES IT WORK
PUPILS ARE AFFORDED OPPORTUNITIES TO:
Engage in mastery-level learning tasks that deepen subject knowledge and critical thinking
Participate in specialist curriculum and enrichment activities tailored to their strengths
Prepare for 11+ and 16+ entrance exams and scholarship assessments through targeted support
Undertake ISEB, IPQ, and Extended Research Projects to build academic independence
Compete in regional and national academic competitions to stretch their abilities
Develop leadership, confidence, and resilience through a bespoke academic pathway
Be inspired by guest speakers, workshops, and university-style learning experiences
Receive personalised guidance for selective school entry, university applications, or career pathways
BUILDING LEARNER HABITS
At the heart of our learning philosophy at Colchester Prep & High School lies the development of strong Learner Habits—the behaviours and routines that shape how pupils approach learning, solve problems, and grow as individuals. We proudly follow our bespoke ASPIRE framework based on the 21st Century Learner Skills:
Application
Our STEAM curriculum fosters meaningful cross-disciplinary connections, encouraging pupils to apply knowledge critically and creatively.
Through real-world tasks, like debates, role-playing, and case studies, pupils build global awareness, digital literacy, and advanced problem-solving skills.
Self-Motivation
We nurture pupils' internal drive through goal setting, personal interests, and regular reflection. Choice-based tasks and opportunities to showcase learning boost engagement.
Independent study for MOS exams highlights their motivation, character, and applied tech skills developed through our STEAM curriculum.
Partnership
Collaboration is key. From group projects and peer reviews, to drama and interactive games, pupils work together, build communication skills and take shared responsibility for their learning.
Imagination
Creativity is embraced through open-ended tasks, storytelling, visualisation, and imaginative problem-solving. Pupils are encouraged to think beyond the obvious and express their unique ideas.
Resilience
We build character by embracing challenges. Pupils are encouraged to see mistakes as learning opportunities, develop a growth mindset, and persevere through difficulties with confidence and determination.
Enquiry
Curiosity drives learning. Through thought-provoking questions, investigations, and flexible, real-world tasks, pupils are empowered to explore, challenge ideas, develop their cognitive skills and deepen understanding.
We embed ASPIRE habits into daily life at school—through teaching, rewards, assemblies, and our school culture. Staff model and highlight these habits in lessons, while pupils are recognised through House Points, reports, and awards. By focusing on the ASPIRE learner habits, we help our pupils become confident, capable, aspirational and compassionate learners who are future ready.