Nonsuch High School for Girls
State Grammar School (Academy) · Est. 1938
Nonsuch is unapologetically academic, incredibly diverse, and fiercely ambitious. It perfectly suits a girl who genuinely loves learning, thrives on challenge, and is highly self-motivated. Academic excellence is simply the baseline, but it is met with a strong sense of community and support. Girls arrive knowing they are entering one of England's most competitive state grammars, and the school gives them every reason to stay proud of that.
One of England's most sought-after girls' grammars — 210 places drawn from thousands of applicants, with a highly competitive two-stage SET/NWSSEE process and a 5.25km catchment that is the real second filter after pure-score places.
Loading map…
Ewell Road, Cheam, Sutton SM3 8AB
Tuition fees
£0
state-funded
Places available
210
Year 7
A-Level A*/A
64.4
%
GCSE 9–7
82.8
%
Best For
Highly academic, self-motivated girls who thrive under pressure and genuinely love learning. Nonsuch suits girls who are fiercely ambitious, excellent at exams, and ready for a demanding but supportive environment. State grammar delivering independent-school outcomes at zero cost.
Watch Out For
The two-stage exam process is demanding — Stage 1 SET is a sift, but Stage 2 NWSSEE creative writing catches many strong candidates off guard. Out-of-catchment families face much tougher odds (only 85 pure-score places). The school is academically intense; girls who need more pastoral hand-holding may struggle.
Entry Points
- Main entry at 11+ (210 places). Occasional sixth form places available for external applicants with strong GCSE results. No other entry points.
The Complete Admissions Timeline
Every key date, deadline and decision point — with insider intelligence you won't find on the school website. Click any item to reveal verified insider knowledge.
The critical window: Registration closes late July/August of Year 5 — this is earlier than most families expect. Stage 1 SET in mid-September Year 6 is a sift; Stage 2 NWSSEE in late September is where places are won. CAF deadline is 31 October — include Nonsuch on your CAF and rank it to suit your priorities (Sutton uses equal preference, so ranking does not affect eligibility).
Registration opens
Register via the Sutton SET online portal. This is mandatory to sit the entrance exams.
Stage 1: Sutton SET
All registered candidates sit the initial multiple-choice test. Two papers: English (~40–50 mins) and Maths (~40–50 mins). This is a sifting stage — girls must achieve a qualifying score to progress to Stage 2.
Stage 2: NWSSEE
Girls who pass Stage 1 are invited to sit the bespoke written NWSSEE exam (shared with Wallington High School for Girls). Maths requires shown working; English includes a creative writing task and deep comprehension.
Stage 2 results emailed
Parents receive Stage 2 results by email. This confirms whether your daughter has qualified for consideration.
CRITICAL: CAF deadline
Local Authority Common Application Form deadline. You MUST explicitly name Nonsuch on your CAF if you want to be considered for a place.
National Offer Day
Offers are released on National Secondary School Offer Day. Places are allocated based on score and catchment criteria.
Key Dates — September Year 7 Entry
- 1
Registration opens
May (Year 5)
- 2
Registration deadline
Late July/August (Year 5)
- 3
Stage 1 SET
Mid-September (Year 6)
- 4
Stage 2 NWSSEE
Late September (Year 6)
- 5
Stage 2 results
Mid-October (Year 6)
- 6
CAF deadline
31 October (Year 6)
- 7
National Offer Day
1 March (Year 6)
The 11+ Entrance Exam
Nonsuch uses a demanding two-stage Sutton examination process to filter for the absolute highest calibre of academic potential. Stage 1 is a sift; Stage 2 is where places are won.
SET English (Stage 1)
~40–50 minutes · Multiple choice
Spending too long on tricky questions; second-guessing initial answers; not reading all options before selecting; running out of time.
SET Maths (Stage 1)
~40–50 minutes · Multiple choice
Careless calculation errors under time pressure; not reading the question fully; skipping the harder questions instead of attempting them.
NWSSEE English (Stage 2)
~60+ minutes (estimated) · Written examination — creative writing + comprehension
Underestimating the creative writing challenge; generic, formulaic stories; shallow comprehension answers; poor time management between sections.
NWSSEE Maths (Stage 2)
~60+ minutes (estimated) · Written examination — show working required
Not showing working (critical for marks); assuming Stage 1 MC practice is sufficient; rushing through easier questions and making careless errors.
Topic Difficulty & Weight
Difficulty (%) and exam weight by topic area
Key takeaway: Multiple-choice English paper (~40–50 mins) testing comprehension and language skills. Speed matters — it's a sift, not a showcase.
Topic Breakdown
Known Exam Traps — SET English (Stage 1)
Move on quickly — flag and return if time allows. Every question carries equal weight.
Trust your first instinct unless you have a clear reason to change. Overthinking costs time.
The pattern: Spending too long on tricky questions; second-guessing initial answers; not reading all options before selecting; running out of time.
If you can only improve in one area, make it
Speed and accuracy
What this means in practice:
Dedicate 60%+ of prep time to this area
Practice under timed conditions regularly
Review mistakes immediately after each session
Track progress weekly to spot patterns
All focus areas ranked by impact:
#1
Speed and accuracy
SET English (Stage 1)
#2
Mental maths fluency
SET Maths (Stage 1)
#3
Creative writing flair
NWSSEE English (Stage 2)
#4
Showing clear working
NWSSEE Maths (Stage 2)
Academic Results
Selected academic results for Nonsuch. Figures relate to the reporting years shown; check the school for its latest published results.
A-Level A* Rate
26.6%
Reporting year: 2024
A-Level A*/A Rate
64.4%
Reporting year: 2024
GCSE Grade 9-7
82.8%
National rank #24.
A-Level A*-B Rate
89.2%
Reporting year: 2024
A-Level Results vs National Average
Nonsuch vs England average (%)
What this means: 64.4% A*/A is exceptionally strong for a state school — placing Nonsuch in the top 100 nationally and on par with many fee-paying schools.
GCSE Grade Distribution
Nonsuch vs National distribution (%)
What this means: 82.8% grades 9–7 at GCSE reflects the highly selective intake. The national average is just 23%.
University Destinations
Where Nonsuch leavers go: % of cohort
Notable Academic Achievements
Free education, private-school outcomes
State grammar delivering independent-school-calibre results at zero cost to families
#24 GCSE, #76 A-Level nationally
Consistently ranked among the top grammar schools in England
Formidable Oxbridge pipeline
Comprehensive Oxbridge preparation programme with strong annual placements
Girls' Learning Trust
Part of a high-performing trust with Wallington High School for Girls
Exceptional enrichment
STEM, music, competitive sports, and leadership opportunities beyond academics
League Table Position: Nonsuch consistently ranks in the top 25 state schools for GCSE results and top 100 for A-Level performance nationally.
No Formal Interview
Nonsuch does not conduct admissions interviews for 11+ entry. Selection is based entirely on the two-stage examination process (SET + NWSSEE) and catchment criteria.
Format
No interview
Duration
N/A
Role in Admissions
Part of a holistic assessment, not a pass/fail gate
What determines a place?
Places are allocated purely on exam performance and catchment. 85 places go to the highest-scoring candidates regardless of postcode. The remaining ~125 places are allocated by score to girls within the 5.25km catchment radius.
What Makes a Strong Impression
Focus entirely on exam preparation. There is no opportunity to demonstrate character or passion in an interview — performance on the day is everything.
N/A
Compiled from parent reports (2023-2025)
The pattern: N/A — exam-based selection only
What Actually Wins Offers
- 1Maximise Stage 1 SET score to qualify for Stage 2
- 2Develop creative writing flair for the notoriously challenging NWSSEE English paper
- 3Practice showing clear working for NWSSEE Maths
- 4Ensure CAF lists Nonsuch as FIRST preference
Insider Intel: What Other Parents Don't Know
These are the insights you will not find on the school website, in Good Schools Guide, or from any single tutoring agency. Each insight is compiled from official documents, parent reports, and tutoring industry data.This is the intelligence that gives ClassAce families an edge.
The 85-place rule is the real out-of-catchment filter
Only 85 places are awarded purely on score regardless of postcode. The remaining ~125 places go to in-catchment candidates (within 5.25km). Out-of-catchment families face much tougher odds — typically requiring scores in the top 10–15% of all Stage 2 candidates.
Understand preference ranking under equal preference
Sutton uses an equal preference system — your preference order does NOT affect whether Nonsuch can make you an offer. Nonsuch considers all applicants who meet the criteria (passing the test + meeting distance tie-breakers) regardless of ranking. However, if multiple schools can offer you a place, you receive your highest-ranked preference among them.
Stage 2 creative writing is the biggest stumbling block
The NWSSEE English creative writing task is notoriously challenging. It requires immense imaginative flair under time pressure — generic, formulaic stories score poorly. Many girls who excel at Stage 1 MC speed struggle with Stage 2 depth.
Stage 2 Maths requires shown working — not MC
Unlike Stage 1, the NWSSEE Maths paper is NOT multiple-choice. Clear workings must be shown for full marks. Girls who have only practised MC-style papers often struggle with the shift to written problem-solving.
Registration deadline is surprisingly early
Registration closes in late July/August of Year 5 — much earlier than most families expect. No late registrations are accepted under any circumstances. Set a reminder.
Include Nonsuch on your CAF
You must explicitly list Nonsuch on your Common Application Form to be considered for a place. Under the equal preference system, preference order does NOT affect whether you're eligible — all preferences are assessed equally. However, if multiple schools can offer a place, you receive your highest-ranked preference.
Common Mistakes Parents Make
The errors we see most often from families preparing for Nonsuch High School for Girls. Avoid these and you're already ahead of the majority of applicants.
Missing the early registration deadline
Registration closes in late July/August of Year 5 — much earlier than most families expect. No late registrations are accepted under any circumstances.
Not listing Nonsuch on the CAF
You must explicitly list Nonsuch on your Common Application Form to be considered for a place. Under equal preference, all preferences are assessed equally against admissions criteria, but you must include Nonsuch to be eligible.
Assuming Stage 1 MC practice is sufficient
Stage 2 NWSSEE requires creative writing flair and shown working in Maths — very different from the MC speed of Stage 1. Prepare for both formats.
Underestimating the creative writing challenge
The NWSSEE English creative writing task is notoriously challenging. Generic, formulaic stories score poorly. Practice imaginative, vivid, engaging writing.
Not understanding the 85-place rule
Only 85 places are awarded purely on score regardless of postcode. Out-of-catchment families face much tougher odds than in-catchment candidates.
Applying without understanding catchment
~125 places are allocated to in-catchment candidates (within 5.25km). If you live outside this radius, you're competing for only 85 pure-score places against candidates across London and Surrey.
Nonsuch vs Competitor Schools
How does Nonsuch High School for Girls compare to the schools your child is most likely also applying to? This analysis covers the key factors that actually matter to families.
Important context: Nonsuch is one of the top girls' grammar schools in England, delivering independent-school-calibre outcomes at zero cost. The combination of exceptional results, Oxbridge pipeline, and free education makes it a gold-standard destination for academically ambitious families.
| Factor | FeaturedNonsuch High School for Girls | Wallington High School for Girls | Tiffin Girls' School | Sutton Grammar School | Wilson's School |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| School Type | State Grammar (Girls) | State Grammar (Girls) | State Grammar (Girls) | State Grammar (Boys) | State Grammar (Boys) |
| Co-educational | |||||
| VR in Exam | |||||
| Annual Fee | £0 (Free) | £0 (Free) | £0 (Free) | £0 (Free) | £0 (Free) |
| 11+ Difficulty | Extremely competitive | Extremely competitive | Extremely competitive | Extremely competitive | Extremely competitive |
| Interview Style | No | No | No | No | No |
Why Parents Choose Nonsuch
- Free education with private-school outcomesNonsuch delivers independent-school-calibre results at zero cost. A-Level results (64.4% A*/A) and GCSE results (82.8% 9–7) rival many fee-paying schools charging £20k+ per year.
- Formidable Oxbridge and Russell Group pipelineThe school has a comprehensive Oxbridge preparation programme and consistently places students at Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, Imperial, LSE, and Medicine/Dentistry courses.
- Strong pastoral support despite academic intensityNonsuch is acutely aware of pressure associated with being a top-tier grammar. They employ a deeply embedded pastoral system to combat perfectionism and maintain healthy work-life balance.
- Exceptional enrichment beyond academicsPhenomenal extracurriculars in STEM, music, competitive sports, and leadership. Academic excellence is the baseline, but broader development is actively encouraged.
- Social mobility commitmentPupil Premium candidates with qualifying scores get priority. The school is deeply committed to ensuring talented girls are supported regardless of background.
Points to Consider
- Highly competitive admissions~2,000+ candidates compete for 210 places. The two-stage SET/NWSSEE process is highly competitive. Out-of-catchment families need astronomically high scores for the 85 pure-score places.
- Catchment heavily favours local familiesOnly 85 places are awarded purely on score. The remaining ~125 places go to in-catchment candidates (within 5.25km). Out-of-catchment families face much tougher odds.
- CAF must include NonsuchYou must explicitly list Nonsuch on the CAF to be considered. Under equal preference, preference order does NOT affect eligibility — all preferences are assessed equally. However, if multiple schools can offer a place, you receive your highest-ranked preference.
- Registration deadline is surprisingly earlyRegistration closes in late July/August of Year 5 — much earlier than most families expect. Miss this deadline and you cannot sit the exam.
- Stage 2 is a significant step-up from Stage 1Many girls who breeze through Stage 1 MC papers struggle with Stage 2's creative writing depth and shown-working Maths. Preparation must cover both formats.
Scholarships & Financial Support
As a state grammar school, Nonsuch is free for all students. There are no scholarships or bursaries for fees, but the 16–19 Bursary Scheme provides financial support for Sixth Form students from eligible families.
| Scholarship Type | Value | Available Places | Selection Method | Stackable? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 16–19 Bursary Scheme | Financial support for Sixth Form | Based on eligibility | Means-tested for qualifying families | No |
* Pupil Premium candidates with qualifying scores receive priority in admissions. The school actively supports social mobility.
Preparing for Nonsuch?
One-to-one tuition with qualified teacher Damian Fearon. Entrance exam preparation tailored to your child's target schools.
Discuss your child's preparation
Limited one-to-one support is available for families preparing for selective school entrance exams. Discuss your child's goals and current preparation.
Send an enquiryPersonal reply within 24 hours · No obligation
Local entrance exam support
One-to-one tuition in South West London
I work directly with families on English, maths, reasoning and exam technique. Tell me the schools and entry year you are considering so we can identify the appropriate preparation. School entry requirements vary.
Explore local tuitionKeep researching
More from ClassAce
School Match quiz
Answer a few questions and get a shortlist matched to your child and your area.
11+ exam formats
How entrance exams differ between schools: boards, papers, and timings compared.
Daily 11+ challenge
One free exam-style question a day. Build the habit before the mocks begin.
Compare school options
Explore our published school admissions guides, organised by region, to compare entry routes and preparation priorities.
Browse school admissions guides