Choosing the right school for your child is a pivotal decision, and for parents in Kent, the selection of grammar schools offers a pathway to exceptional education. Each year, thousands of pupils sit the Kent Test (11+), competing for places at schools known for academic excellence, outstanding university progression, and strong extracurricular programmes.
This guide explores the best grammar schools in Kent, how admissions work, and what parents should consider when choosing the right school for their child.
The best grammar schools in Kent
There are 32 grammar schools in Kent alone, offering both mixed and single-gender entry, meaning that you have a plethora of choices when looking for a school for your child. However, this abundance of choice can also be overwhelming so below you will find a table comparing the academic performance indicators of the top grammar schools in Kent.
Top Grammar Schools for Boys
| School | 2023 GCSE A*/A/9/8/7 | 2023 A level A*-B | Ofsted rating | Progress 8 score 2022-23 | Attainment 8 score 2022-23 (Kent avg. 47.0) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 76% | IB average score 35 | Outstanding | Well above average / 1.12 | 78.2 | |
| Results not available | 85% | Outstanding | Well above average / 0.59 | 76.2 | |
| Skinners’ School | 61.6% | 75.5% | Good | Well above average / 0.71 | 72.7 |
| (mixed entry) | 56% | IB average score 36 | Good | Well above average / 0.67 | 69.2 |
| 46.1% | 49.1% | Good | Well above average / 0.72 | 66.5 | |
| Results not available | Results not available | Outstanding | Above average / 0.46 | 68.5 | |
| 44.6% | 54.1% | Good | Well above average / 0.72 | 67.2 | |
| 46% | 47.7% | Outstanding | Above average / 0.34 | 65.4 |
Top Grammar Schools for Girls
| School | 2023 GCSE A*/A/9/8/7 | 2023 A level A*-B | Ofsted rating | Progress 8 score 2022-23 | Attainment 8 score 2022-23 (Kent avg. 47.0) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tonbridge Grammar School | 78% | IB average score 36.7 | Outstanding | Well above average / 0.76 | 77.3 |
| 66.6% | 76.5% | Outstanding | Well above average / 1.05 | 73.1 | |
| 73% | 68% | Outstanding | Well above average / 0.93 | 75.2 | |
| (Mixed entry) | 56% | IB average score 36 | Good | Well above average / 0.67 | 69.2 |
| 56% | 69% | Outstanding | Well above average / 0.71 | 69.7 | |
| 61.1% | 65.2% | Requires Improvement | Well above average / 0.83 | 70.4 | |
| Results not available | Results not available | Outstanding | Well above average / 0.52 | 66.0 | |
| Results not available | Results not available | Good | Well above average / 0.74 | 67.7 |
Several Kent schools consistently rank among the leading grammar schools in the UK for GCSE and A-level outcomes.
What is the admissions process for a Kent grammar school?
Gaining admission to a Kent grammar school involves passing the Kent Test, a selective entrance exam which evaluates whether a grammar school is a suitable fit for a student. The Kent Test is designed to be challenging and is used by grammar schools to select students performing in the top 25% of their year group. In 2023, over 17,000 children took the test for 5,801 available spots.
is Kent’s most oversubscribed school; in 2023, 551 parents put the school as their first choice of secondary and only 25% were offered a place. is the next-most challenging school in which to gain a place, with just 149 getting a place out of the 425 parents who put the school down as their first choice.
Crafted by experts, measures performance across various reasoning skills, as well as proficiency in English and Maths. It consists of two booklets: one for Reasoning, which includes questions on verbal, non-verbal, and spatial reasoning, and another for English & Maths. Each booklet contains timed, multiple-choice questions. Students read the questions in the booklet and select their answers on a separate sheet, which is then computer-marked. The English exam includes a creative writing activity; this is only marked if a headteacher panel needs it to inform a final decision. To pass the exam, your child will need a total score of at least 332, out of a total possible 423, with no single score lower than 107.
The Kent Test is administered in September during Year 6. For children attending a Kent primary school, the test is usually taken at their own school on a school day. Children from primary schools outside Kent may be invited to take the test at a Kent grammar school on a weekend.
The results of the Kent Test are released to parents and guardians in mid-October of Year 6, typically just before the half-term break. If you registered online, the results will be emailed to you. For those who registered on paper, the results will be sent via first-class post. Additionally, your child's primary school will receive the results, so you can verify with them if you do not receive the notification.
If your child is applying to a grammar school in Medway or the London Boroughs of Bexley and Bromley, they will need to take a different exam.
How can I support my child with preparing for the Kent Test?
Preparation for the Kent Test is crucial and should start well in advance. Familiarise your child with the test format and types of questions by using available online and in preparatory books. Regular practice helps improve speed and accuracy. Enrolling in a prep course or hiring a tutor can provide structured guidance and address specific areas of weakness.
Encourage a balanced study routine, combining test practice with other activities to prevent burnout. Building strong foundational knowledge in English and Maths through regular schoolwork is essential, as these skills are fundamental to the test. Reading widely, and discussing what they have read with your child, can support both English and reasoning skills. Additionally, developing reasoning skills through puzzles and logic games can be beneficial.
Setting regular, attainable goals and celebrating your child’s progress, regardless of its size, can help maintain their motivation. Encourage a growth mindset by celebrating effort in addition to achievement. When your child makes mistakes or has difficulty understanding a topic, help them realise that they can improve through practice. Consistent praise will enhance their resilience when facing new and challenging subjects. Ensure your child gets adequate rest before the test day to perform optimally.
With thorough preparation and a supportive approach, your child can successfully navigate the Kent Test and gain entry into a Kent grammar school.
Read more tips in our Grammar School Entrance Exams article
How to Choose the Best Grammar School in Kent for Your Child
Finding the best school for your child involves thorough research and consideration of several key factors. Start by identifying your child’s needs, strengths, and interests to match them with the right environment. Research schools’ academic performance by examining exam results, Ofsted reports, and league tables (see table above). Visiting schools during open days is crucial; it provides first handfirst-hand experience of the facilities, teaching quality, and overall atmosphere. Engage with teachers, students, and parents to gain diverse perspectives.
Consider the school’s extracurricular offerings, as these play a vital role in holistic development. Evaluate the support systems in place for both academic and emotional well-being. Proximity and ease of commute are practical factors to consider, ensuring your child’s daily routine is manageable.
Lastly, trust your instincts and involve your child in the decision-making process. Their comfort and enthusiasm for a school are paramount. By balancing objective data with personal impressions, you can find a school that fosters your child’s growth and happiness.
Tutors for 11+ Grammar School Entrance
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