Barton Court Grammar School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Type: State Grammar School (Academy Converter)
• Age Range: 11-18 years
• Gender: Co-educational
• Location: Canterbury, Kent
• Headteacher: Mr Jonathan Hopkins
• Ofsted Rating: Good with Outstanding Features (February 2020)
• Special Status: Advanced Thinking School, Lead School of Barton Court Academy Trust
• Admissions: Selective entry via Kent Test (11+)

About Barton Court Grammar School

Barton Court Grammar School occupies a distinctive position within Canterbury's educational landscape, having evolved from its origins as Canterbury Technical School for Girls before the Second World War into today's thriving co-educational grammar school. Located in the historic city of Canterbury, the school converted to academy status in 2011 and now serves as the lead institution of the Barton Court Academy Trust.

The school has earned recognition as an 'Advanced Thinking School', reflecting its commitment to developing critical thinking skills and intellectual curiosity amongst its students. This prestigious accreditation, combined with its recent Ofsted rating of 'Good' with many outstanding features, demonstrates the school's dedication to academic excellence and holistic student development.

Barton Court Grammar School prides itself on maintaining a caring and supportive ethos whilst delivering exceptionally high academic standards. The school's comprehensive extracurricular programme includes orchestra, choir, and debating club, ensuring students develop both academically and personally. The institution's strong community spirit and commitment to nurturing each student's potential creates an environment where academic achievement flourishes alongside personal growth.

The 11+ Assessment Process

As a selective grammar school in Kent, Barton Court Grammar School requires prospective students to sit the Kent Test, commonly known as the 11+ examination. This standardised assessment determines eligibility for grammar school places across the county and is administered annually for students in Year 6.

Assessment Components

The Kent Test typically evaluates students across four key areas:

• Verbal Reasoning: Assesses vocabulary, comprehension, and logical thinking using words and language
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Tests spatial awareness, pattern recognition, and problem-solving using shapes and diagrams
• Mathematics: Covers numerical reasoning, arithmetic, and mathematical concepts appropriate to primary school level
• English: Evaluates reading comprehension, grammar, punctuation, and writing skills

The examination is designed to identify students who will thrive in a grammar school environment, focusing on aptitude and potential rather than curriculum-specific knowledge. Students typically sit the test in September of Year 6, with results determining secondary school allocations for the following academic year.

How to Apply

The admissions process for Barton Court Grammar School follows Kent County Council's standardised grammar school application procedure:

• Registration: Register your child for the Kent Test through Kent County Council's online portal, typically opening in May for September testing
• Kent Test: Students sit the 11+ examination at designated test centres across Kent in September of Year 6
• Results: Kent Test results are released in October, indicating whether students have achieved the qualifying score
• School Application: Submit secondary school preferences through Kent's online application system, ranking up to four preferred schools
• Allocation: Places are offered in March based on Kent Test performance and school preferences

Parents should note that achieving the qualifying score guarantees eligibility but not automatic admission to Barton Court Grammar School, as places are allocated based on proximity and availability. The school strongly recommends visiting during open days to understand the school's ethos and determine suitability for your child.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition's comprehensive 11+ preparation programme is specifically designed to maximise your child's potential for success at selective schools like Barton Court Grammar School. Our expert tutors understand the nuances of the Kent Test and have extensive experience preparing students for this competitive examination.

Tailored Preparation Strategy

Our personalised approach begins with a thorough assessment of your child's current abilities across all four Kent Test components. We identify specific areas for development and create a structured learning plan that builds confidence whilst addressing any knowledge gaps. Our tutors employ proven techniques that familiarise students with the examination format whilst developing the critical thinking skills valued by grammar schools.

Expert Guidance and Support

Beyond academic preparation, Taylor Tuition provides invaluable guidance throughout the entire application process. We help families navigate the complexities of Kent's grammar school system, ensuring all deadlines are met and applications are optimally positioned. Our deep understanding of Barton Court Grammar School's expectations enables us to prepare students not just for examination success, but for thriving in their chosen school environment.

Our proven track record of successful grammar school placements, combined with our commitment to each student's individual journey, ensures your child receives the expert support necessary to achieve their full potential and secure their place at Barton Court Grammar School.