Cranbrook School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Name: Cranbrook School
• Location: Waterloo Road, Cranbrook, Kent, TN17 3JD
• Type: Mixed state grammar school with boarding facilities
• Age Range: 11-18 years
• Student Numbers: Approximately 908 students (240 boarders)
• Headteacher: Mr David Clark
• Religious Character: Non-denominational Christian ethos
• Admissions: Selective via 11+ examination
• Unique Feature: The only state grammar school in the UK offering mixed co-educational boarding

About Cranbrook School

With over 400 years of educational heritage, Cranbrook School occupies a unique position in British education as the sole state grammar school providing co-educational boarding alongside day places. Located in the historic market town of Cranbrook in Kent, this exceptional institution combines the academic rigour of selective education with the pastoral care and character development traditionally associated with independent schools.

Operating as an academy converter under the Cranbrook School Academy Trust, the school has built its reputation on five core values: Kindness, Integrity, Curiosity, Aspiration, and Individuality. These principles permeate every aspect of school life, from the challenging academic curriculum to the extensive co-curricular programme that includes student-led research projects and innovative learning opportunities.

The school's boarding community of approximately 240 students creates a vibrant residential atmosphere whilst maintaining strong links with the local day pupil population. This blend of boarding and day provision offers families flexibility whilst ensuring all students benefit from the extended learning opportunities and pastoral support that residential education provides.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Cranbrook School employs a comprehensive 11+ assessment designed to identify students who will thrive in a challenging academic environment. The examination evaluates candidates across four key areas:

• Mathematics: Problem-solving abilities, numerical reasoning, and mathematical concepts appropriate for Year 6 students
• English: Reading comprehension, vocabulary knowledge, grammar, and written expression skills
• Verbal Reasoning: Logical thinking using language-based concepts, including analogies, word relationships, and comprehension
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Spatial awareness, pattern recognition, and logical reasoning using diagrams and shapes

The assessment is carefully calibrated to identify students who demonstrate not only strong academic foundations but also the intellectual curiosity and resilience needed to excel in Cranbrook's demanding curriculum. The school seeks pupils who will contribute positively to the school community whilst benefiting from the exceptional educational opportunities available.

How to Apply

The application process for Year 7 entry at Cranbrook School follows a structured timeline that families should carefully observe:

Step 1: Online Registration
Complete the comprehensive online application form available on the school's official website. This includes detailed pupil information, educational history, and boarding preferences if applicable.

Step 2: 11+ Examination
All candidates must sit the school's entrance examination, typically held in the autumn term. The assessment takes place at the school under examination conditions.

Step 3: Application Deadline
Ensure submission of all required documentation by the published deadline. Late applications may not be considered for the main entry round.

Step 4: Interview Process
Selected candidates may be invited for an interview to assess their suitability for the school's ethos and boarding community if relevant.

Step 5: Offer Communication
Successful applicants receive formal offers, with boarding places allocated based on assessment performance and interview outcomes.

Given the school's popularity and limited places, early preparation and timely application submission are essential for prospective families.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

At Taylor Tuition, we understand the unique challenges of preparing for Cranbrook School's selective 11+ process. Our personalised approach ensures each child receives expert guidance tailored to the school's specific requirements and assessment style.

Comprehensive 11+ Preparation
Our experienced tutors provide intensive coaching across all four assessment areas, using practice materials that mirror Cranbrook's examination format. We focus particularly on the verbal and non-verbal reasoning skills that many children find challenging.

Strategic Application Guidance
We assist families in navigating the application timeline, ensuring all documentation is completed accurately and submitted promptly. Our consultants provide invaluable insights into the school's selection criteria and interview process.

Mock Examinations and Assessment
Regular practice tests under timed conditions help build confidence and identify areas requiring additional focus. Our detailed feedback enables targeted improvement in the crucial months leading to the examination.

Interview Preparation
For candidates invited to interview, we provide specialised coaching to help pupils articulate their interests, aspirations, and understanding of what Cranbrook School offers. This preparation is particularly valuable for families considering boarding options.

Ongoing Academic Support
Beyond successful entry, we continue supporting students as they transition to Cranbrook's demanding academic environment, ensuring they maximise the exceptional educational opportunities available.

Our proven track record of successful placements at Cranbrook School, combined with our deep understanding of the school's ethos and expectations, positions Taylor Tuition as the ideal partner in securing your child's place at this remarkable institution.