Test area
Essex (CSSE & Southend)
Essex has two separate 11+ systems: the Consortium of Selective Schools in Essex (CSSE) runs the joint test for Essex grammars, while Southend‑on‑Sea grammar schools use a separate Southend test administered by GL Assessment.
Exam format
ProviderCSSESubjectsEnglish·MathematicsStructureTwo papers (English including comprehension and creative writing; Maths). Mix of multiple-choice and short-answer.NotesCSSE test is taken in early autumn of Year 6. Southend grammars test separately on the same model.
12 Schools
Chelmsford County High School for Girls
Chelmsford
Girls’ super‑selective; consistently among the top state schools nationally.
Visit websiteKing Edward VI Grammar School (Chelmsford)
Chelmsford
Boys’ super‑selective; now admits girls into sixth form and lower years.
Visit websiteShoeburyness High School
Shoeburyness
Partially selective school; admits some pupils via the Southend test.
Visit websiteSt Thomas More High School
Westcliff‑on‑Sea
Catholic boys’ school with a partially selective intake.
Visit websiteIlford County High School
Ilford
Boys’ grammar in Redbridge; admits via the Redbridge selective test.
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