What changes are happening next year for Year 5?
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Whenever an 11+ examination changes, it can be a challenging time: rumours about new question types, unknown formats, and wondering whether months of preparation has been wasted. While change can feel unsettling, this upcoming shift in the Dorset grammar school entrance tests is entirely manageable with the right guidance and a steady, structured approach to preparation.
The Timeline: Who is Affected?
It is vital to be clear on the timeline, as there is some confusion regarding the upcoming entry periods:
September 2026 Exams (for 2027 entry): The test provider remains GL Assessment. If your child is preparing to sit the exam this year, rest assured that nothing changes. You should continue with your current GL-focused preparation.
September 2027 Exams (for 2028 entry) and beyond: The Dorset Consortium will officially transition to Quest Assessments. If your child is currently in Year 4 or younger, they will be the first cohort to sit the new Quest format.
Understanding Quest Assessments
Quest Assessments, working in partnership with Atom Learning, aims to create entrance tests that are accessible and academically rigorous. They are designed to identify potential without relying on content that extends far beyond the primary classroom. Atom Learning provide some resources and preparation that you can sign up to for a monthly fee.
This is a positive shift; it moves away from the need to rote-learn obscure exam techniques, focusing instead on a child’s genuine academic potential and their ability to think critically.
Important: Paper-Based, Not Digital
If you have been researching Quest Assessments independently, you may have read that they are often associated with adaptive, digital exams. It is crucial to note that this digital format is typically used for independent private schools.
The Dorset Grammar School Consortium has structured their Quest 11+ as a traditional, paper-based assessment. Your child will use physical question booklets and record their choices on a separate multiple-choice answer sheet. You do not need to worry about the pressure of adaptive computer algorithms, nor do you need to shift your preparation to screen-based practice.
What is Changing, and What is Staying the Same?
While the provider is changing, the core subjects of the Dorset 11+ remain consistent. The exam will continue to assess:
Mathematics
English
Verbal Reasoning
Crucially, the Consortium has confirmed that no content beyond the Year 5 National Curriculum will be tested. At Topsie Tutoring, my focus remains on depth of understanding, critical thinking and logical reasoning, rather than memorising advanced material.
Key changes:
- Each test (English, maths & verbal reasoning) will now be 40 minutes instead of 50 minutes
- The test will focus on mastery and deeper understanding of the Year 5 curriculum areas (not any advanced content).
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