The Wandsworth Test Explained:What Parents Need to Know and When to Start

A clear guide for parents in South West London

If you are applying to certain secondary schools in Wandsworth, your child may need to sit the Wandsworth Year 6 Test. Many parents only discover this late, which can make the process feel stressful.

This guide explains what the test is, what it involves, the key dates for 2026 entry, and when preparation should begin.

What is the Wandsworth Test?

The Wandsworth Year 6 Test is used by several Wandsworth secondary schools as part of their admissions process.

It helps schools place children into ability bands or make partial selection decisions.

Your child must take the test if you are applying to:

• Ashcroft Technology Academy

• Burntwood School

• Chestnut Grove Academy

• Graveney School

The test is written and marked by GL Assessment, an independent exam board. It is not organised by primary schools, which means parents must register their child directly.

What does the Wandsworth Test consist of?

• Non-Verbal Reasoning (approx. 55 minutes): Tests ability to analyze visual information, identifying patterns, sequences, and similarities in shapes and codes. It often includes four sections.

• Verbal Reasoning (approx. 50 minutes): Tests logic and reasoning with words, including vocabulary-based questions, word games, and verbal codes.

• Format: It is a multiple-choice, paper-based test where answers are marked on a separate sheet.

• Structure: The test includes short practice sessions before each part and a break in between.

• Purpose: The results are age-standardised and used for fair banding or selective admissions at specific schools in the borough. 

The tests are designed to measure potential rather than curriculum knowledge, though familiarity with the question formats via practice is common.

Wandsworth test key dates for 2026 entry

These are the confirmed dates for children starting secondary school in September 2026.

• Registration deadline: 4 September 2025

• Main test dates: 25, 26, 27 and 29 September 2025

• Results released: 24 October 2025

• Secondary school application deadline: 31 October 2025

• National Offer Day: 2 March 2026

A late test is usually offered in December for children who miss the September sitting. Registration for the late test typically closes in early November.

Entry dates for 2027 have not yet been released.

When should children start preparing?

Although the Wandsworth Test is taken at the start of Year 6, preparation should not begin in Year 6.

From our experience, children are most settled and confident when preparation starts in Year 4 or early Year 5. This allows time to build reasoning skills gradually, become familiar with GL Assessment question types, develop exam stamina without pressure, and address gaps early.

Starting late in Year 5 often increases stress and limits progress.

How Brilliant Beans prepares children for the Wandsworth Test

At Brilliant Beans Tutoring, we prepare children specifically for the structure and demands of the Wandsworth Test.

We focus on verbal and non verbal reasoning, timed exam technique, confidence building in small groups, and SEN aware support where appropriate. We also guide parents through key dates, school choices, and the wider admissions process.

We support children aged 7 to 11 across South West London using a calm, structured, child centred approach.

Your first month is free, allowing families to explore whether the support feels right before committing.

Final thoughts for parents

The Wandsworth Test is not about last minute cramming. It rewards familiarity, confidence, and steady preparation over time.

Understanding the test early and choosing the right support can make the journey far calmer for both children and parents.

If you would like guidance tailored to your child and target schools, Brilliant Beans is always happy to help - just get in touch.