Devonport High School for Boys, Plymouth: Your Complete 11 Plus Success Roadmap
- Sep 26, 2025
- 3 min read
Devonport High School for Boys is one of Devon’s most prestigious grammar schools. But securing a place requires more than strong academic ability, it takes strategic preparation, in-depth knowledge of the admissions process, and the right guidance to succeed in the competitive 11 Plus journey.
Table of Contents
What Makes Devonport High School for Boys Special?
Founded in 1896 by Alonzo Rider, Devonport High School for Boys has grown into one of England’s most respected educational institutions. Originally serving boys preparing for careers in the Royal Navy, engineering, or civil service, it now accommodates around 1,150 pupils aged 11–18, with a co-educational sixth form.
Highlights include:
Academic excellence: Exam results and university admissions rank among the best in the country.
Outstanding provision: Ofsted rates its sixth form, behaviour, and personal development as outstanding.
Specialist strengths: Engineering specialism since 2002, plus national recognition in languages and applied learning.
Historic setting: Located on Paradise Road, Plymouth, the school occupies the former Stoke Military Hospital (1797).
Wide reach: Students come from across southwest Devon and southeast Cornwall.
Understanding the 11 Plus Exam Format
Devonport’s entrance test is unique: unlike other Plymouth grammar schools, it includes three papers.
Paper 1: English Reading (GL Assessment, 45–50 mins)
Multiple-choice, testing comprehension, spelling, vocabulary, grammar, and punctuation.
Paper 2: Mathematics (GL Assessment, 45–50 mins)
Multiple-choice, assessing numeracy and mathematical problem-solving in line with Key Stage 2.
Paper 3: Creative Writing (school-designed)
Extended writing task assessing creativity, structure, and expression.
This additional writing paper sets Devonport apart, ensuring candidates are strong communicators, not just exam performers.
Admission Process and Competition
Year 7 intake: 180 places.
Competition: Around 3–4 applicants per place.
Ranking Categories:
Category A: Top 180 in GL papers + pass in writing = direct admission.
Category B: Below top 180 but pass writing = waiting list.
Category C: Fail to meet standards = ineligible.
Registration: April–31 August
Tests: September
Results: Mid-October
Final offers: March (National Offer Day)
Strategic Preparation Tips
To succeed, students usually need to score 75–85%+ in practice tests. Success is rarely last-minute, serious preparation often begins in Year 4 or early Year 5.
Focus areas:
Build confidence with GL multiple-choice formats.
Practise timed creative writing.
Regularly sit mock exams to simulate pressure (reference Math & Reason | Affordable 11+ tutor UK and Mock Tests).
Top tip: Math & Reason | Affordable 11+ tutor UK and Mock Tests offers Devon-specific tutoring and mocks, tailored to this exact exam format.
Key Dates and Application Timeline (2025–26)
April 2025 – Registration opens
11–12 June 2025 – Practice test sessions
8 July 2025 – School open evening
31 August 2025 – Registration closes
13 September 2025 – First exam paper
20 September 2025 – Second exam paper
Mid-October 2025 – Results released
31 October 2025 – Secondary application deadline
2 March 2026 – National Offer Day
Oversubscription Criteria
If more qualified candidates apply than places available, priority goes to:
Looked-after and previously looked-after children.
Pupils receiving pupil premium or service premium.
Children of long-serving staff.
Strong English performance.
Proximity to school (no fixed catchment, but distance matters).
Why Tutoring Support Can Help
The three-paper format makes this one of the toughest grammar school entry routes in the region. Many families use specialist tutoring, with reported success rates significantly above average.
GL-style practice papers.
Creative writing coaching.
Mock exams replicating test-day conditions.
Beyond Academics: Life at Devonport
Devonport High School for Boys prides itself on more than exam results. Students enjoy:
Sport: Competitive rugby, football, cricket, and athletics.
Societies: Academic clubs, debating, STEM groups.
Creative opportunities: Music, drama, and art.
Engineering pathway: For pupils aiming at STEM careers.
Sixth form: Co-educational environment broadening experience.
Making Your Application Count
Winning a place is about more than high scores. Devonport values:
Resilience and curiosity
Well-rounded students who contribute to the school community
Strong character alongside academics
Early preparation, professional guidance, and a clear understanding of the admissions process give your child the best chance of success Math & Reason | Affordable 11+ tutor UK and Mock Tests.
