Fort Pitt Grammar School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• Type: Selective girls' grammar school with academy status
• Location: Fort Pitt Hill, Chatham, Kent
• Age Range: 11-18 years
• Student Numbers: Approximately 900 students
• Year 7 Intake: 150 girls annually
• Ofsted Rating: Outstanding (2009)
• Entrance Exam: Medway Test
• Special Status: Leading Edge school, National Support School

About Fort Pitt Grammar School

Fort Pitt Grammar School occupies a distinctive position amongst Kent's grammar schools, combining academic excellence with a nurturing environment for young women. Located on the historic Fort Pitt Hill in Chatham, the school serves approximately 900 students aged 11-18, creating a close-knit community where each girl can flourish.

The school's commitment to educational innovation is evident through its accelerated three-year Key Stage 3 curriculum, allowing students to begin GCSE studies earlier and providing greater flexibility in their academic journey. This approach reflects Fort Pitt's dedication to maximising each student's potential whilst maintaining the rigorous standards expected of a grammar school education.

Fort Pitt Grammar School's status as both a Leading Edge school and National Support School demonstrates its role in driving educational excellence beyond its own walls. The school's accreditation by the Prince's Trust Teaching Institute further reinforces its commitment to innovative teaching methods and student development.

The school environment is deliberately designed to encourage intellectual curiosity and personal growth. With its vibrant, diverse community, Fort Pitt creates an atmosphere where girls feel confident to explore their interests, develop leadership skills, and prepare for future academic challenges at university level.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Entry to Fort Pitt Grammar School is determined through the Medway Test, a comprehensive assessment designed to identify students who will thrive in a grammar school environment. The test evaluates key cognitive abilities essential for academic success.

Assessment Components:

• Verbal reasoning - testing comprehension and language skills
• Non-verbal reasoning - assessing spatial and logical thinking
• Mathematics - covering numerical reasoning and problem-solving
• English - evaluating reading comprehension and writing ability

The competitive nature of entry is illustrated by recent statistics: for 2024 entry, Fort Pitt received 707 applications for just 150 places, with the furthest successful applicant living 3,978 metres from the school. This demonstrates the school's appeal and the importance of thorough preparation.

The Medway Test typically takes place in late September or early October, with results determining eligibility for grammar school places across the Medway area. Students must achieve the required standard to be considered for Fort Pitt Grammar School.

How to Apply

The application process for Fort Pitt Grammar School follows Medway Council's coordinated admissions system:

Step 1: Register for the Medway Test
Register your daughter for the 11+ examination through Medway Council by the specified deadline, usually in late June or early July.

Step 2: Complete Secondary School Application
Submit your secondary school application form to Medway Council, listing Fort Pitt Grammar School as one of your preferences. This must be completed by the national deadline of 31st October.

Step 3: Attend School Events
Take advantage of Fort Pitt's open events to understand the school's ethos and facilities. The school typically holds an Open Evening in October, followed by Open Morning sessions.

Key Dates for 2025 Entry:

• National Offer Day: 1st March 2025
• Appeal submission deadline: 28th March 2025
• Appeal hearings: Week commencing 2nd June 2025

Parents should ensure all documentation is submitted promptly and accurately, as late applications significantly reduce chances of securing a place.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

At Taylor Tuition, we understand that preparing for Fort Pitt Grammar School requires more than standard 11+ tuition. Our comprehensive approach addresses the specific challenges of the Medway Test whilst developing the analytical thinking skills that will serve your daughter throughout her grammar school education.

Tailored Medway Test Preparation:

• Comprehensive coverage of all four assessment areas
• Practise with authentic test formats and timing
• Development of effective exam technique and time management
• Regular progress assessments to identify areas for improvement

Beyond Test Preparation:
Our experienced tutors help develop the intellectual curiosity and independent learning skills that Fort Pitt Grammar School values. We focus on building confidence in mathematical reasoning, enhancing written expression, and strengthening analytical thinking.

Application Support:
We guide families through the entire admissions process, from test registration to understanding appeal procedures. Our local knowledge of Kent grammar schools ensures you make informed decisions about school preferences and backup options.

Interview and Assessment Preparation:
Should your daughter receive an offer, we provide guidance on transition preparation, helping her approach grammar school education with confidence and the study skills necessary for academic success.

With our proven track record of success with Medway grammar schools, Taylor Tuition provides the expert support needed to maximise your daughter's chances of securing a place at Fort Pitt Grammar School whilst preparing her for the academic challenges ahead.