King Edward VI Grammar School (KEGS) and Chelmsford County High School for Girls (CCHS) are two of the most prestigious grammar schools in Essex, offering an outstanding education to academically gifted students. Unlike the CSSE consortium schools, KEGS and CCHS have separate admissions processes and different exam structures. In this guide, we’ll break down what makes these schools unique, how to apply, and how Townsq Learning Centre can help your child prepare for success.

What Makes KEGS and CCHS Different?

Unlike other Essex grammar schools that are part of the Consortium of Selective Schools in Essex (CSSE), KEGS and CCHS operate independently with their own entrance exam formats and admissions processes.

• King Edward VI Grammar School (KEGS) uses the GL Assessment 11 Plus exam.
• Chelmsford County High School for Girls (CCHS) has a CEM (Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring) assessment which is different from both CSSE and GL exams.
• Both schools have higher competition rates compared to CSSE grammar schools due to their reputation and selective criteria.

How to Apply to King Edward VI Grammar School (KEGS)

KEGS is a boys’ grammar school with an entrance exam based on the GL Assessment format. Here’s what you need to know:

✅ Registration: Opens in April/May and closes in June.

✅ Exam Date: Typically held in September.

✅ Subjects Tested:

• English (comprehension, grammar, vocabulary)
• Mathematics (problem-solving, arithmetic)
• Verbal reasoning
• Non-verbal reasoning
• ✅ Selection Criteria: Admission is based strictly on performance in the GL exam.
• ✅ Catchment Area: Some priority is given to students in the Chelmsford area, but top scorers from other regions may also be admitted.

How to Apply to Chelmsford County High School for Girls (CCHS)

CCHS is a highly competitive girls’ grammar school with an entrance test set by the CEM assessment framework.

✅ Registration: Opens in April and closes in June.

✅ Exam Date: Usually held in September.

✅ Subjects Tested:

• Verbal reasoning (comprehension, vocabulary, logic)
• Numerical reasoning (maths-based problem-solving)
• Non-verbal reasoning (patterns, spatial awareness)
• ✅ Selection Criteria: Admission is based on performance in the CEM test, which is designed to test aptitude rather than learned knowledge.
• ✅ Catchment Area: While some priority is given to local students, top performers are accepted regardless of location.

How Townsq Learning Centre Can Help Your Child Succeed

At Townsq Learning Centre, we provide tailored tuition and support for students aiming to secure places at KEGS and CCHS. Our program is designed to equip students with the necessary skills and confidence to excel in these highly competitive entrance exams.

✅ Specialist GL and CEM exam preparation – Covering all key subjects and question styles.

✅ Mock exams & timed practice – Simulating real exam conditions to build confidence.

✅ Small group and 1-to-1 tuition – Focused support for targeted improvement.

✅ Exam techniques & time management strategies – Helping students tackle tricky questions effectively.

✅ Proven success rates – Many of our students gain places at top Essex grammar schools.

Final Thoughts: Finding the Right Fit for Your Child

Both KEGS and CCHS offer exceptional educational opportunities, but their admission processes require focused preparation. If your child is aiming for one of these prestigious schools, starting early and practicing with the right materials is essential.

📞 Contact us today to learn more about our expert 11 Plus preparation programs.

🔗 Visit us to discuss our tailored tuition services and book a free assessment.