Gravesend Grammar School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Type: Selective boys' grammar school (ages 11-16) with mixed sixth form
• Location: Gravesend, Kent
• Student Numbers: Approximately 1,500 students
• Year 7 Places: 210 places available annually
• Ofsted Rating: Outstanding
• Admission: Via Kent Test (11+)
• Trust: The Decus Educational Trust
• Required Scores: Typically 106+ in each paper, 320+ overall

About Gravesend Grammar School

Gravesend Grammar School has built its reputation on providing exceptional educational opportunities for academically able boys in Kent. The school's motto, "Challenge and Opportunity in a Caring Environment," reflects its commitment to nurturing both academic excellence and personal development.

Located in the historic town of Gravesend, the school serves as a beacon for families seeking rigorous academic preparation within a supportive community. With its Outstanding Ofsted rating, Gravesend Grammar School consistently delivers results that place students at top universities whilst maintaining a strong focus on character development.

The school's comprehensive approach extends beyond the classroom, offering extensive extracurricular programmes including competitive sports, music ensembles, drama productions, and outdoor education initiatives. This holistic approach ensures boys develop into well-rounded individuals prepared for the challenges of higher education and professional life.

As part of The Decus Educational Trust, the school benefits from collaborative partnerships whilst maintaining its distinctive character and traditions. The mixed sixth form provides an inclusive environment for A-level study, preparing students for university applications and future careers.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Gravesend Grammar School admits students through the Kent Test, a selective assessment designed to identify the most academically able candidates. The examination consists of two comprehensive one-hour papers, each focusing on different aspects of academic ability.

Assessment Components:

• English comprehension and language skills
• Mathematics problem-solving and numerical reasoning
• Verbal reasoning abilities
• Non-verbal and spatial reasoning

Additionally, candidates complete a writing task, which, whilst not formally marked, may be considered for borderline cases. This component allows the school to assess written expression and creativity beyond the multiple-choice format.

Scoring Requirements:
To secure a place at Gravesend Grammar School, candidates typically need to achieve:
• Minimum score of 106 in each individual paper
• Overall combined score of 320 or above
• Performance placing them in the top 15-20% of the ability range

The assessment is designed to identify students who will thrive in the school's academically demanding environment whilst ensuring fair access based on ability rather than preparation.

How to Apply

The application process for Gravesend Grammar School follows Kent's coordinated admissions timeline. Parents must complete several key steps to ensure their child's application is processed correctly.

Application Timeline:

• June-July: Register for the Kent Test during the specified registration period
• September: Your child sits the Kent Test papers
• October: Test results distributed to parents
• 31st October: Submit secondary school application naming Gravesend Grammar School
• March: School place offers announced

Key Requirements:
Parents must register with their home local authority for the Kent Test, even if living outside Kent. The school accepts applications from families across the region, making it accessible to a wide catchment area.

When completing the secondary school application, parents should list Gravesend Grammar School as their preferred choice. The school's admission criteria prioritise Kent Test performance, with places allocated to the highest-scoring candidates who have named the school on their application.

Late applications are accepted but processed after those received by the deadline, potentially reducing chances of securing a place.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition's expertise in Kent grammar school admissions ensures your child is optimally prepared for Gravesend Grammar School's selective process. Our comprehensive approach addresses both academic preparation and examination technique.

Specialised Kent Test Preparation:
Our tutors understand the specific demands of the Kent Test format, providing targeted practice in verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, and curriculum-based English and mathematics. We focus on building speed and accuracy essential for success in the time-pressured environment.

Personalised Learning Plans:
Each student receives an individualised programme based on their initial assessment, focusing on strengthening areas of weakness whilst maintaining confidence in stronger subjects. Our approach ensures comprehensive preparation without overwhelming young learners.

Mock Examinations and Performance Analysis:
Regular practice papers under examination conditions familiarise students with the test format and timing. Detailed performance analysis identifies areas requiring additional focus, allowing for targeted intervention before the actual examination.

Application Guidance and Timeline Management:
Our experienced consultants guide families through Kent's complex admissions system, ensuring all deadlines are met and applications completed correctly. We provide clear timelines and reminders, reducing stress during the application period.

Ongoing Support Throughout the Process:
From initial consultation through to place confirmation, Taylor Tuition provides comprehensive support. Our understanding of Gravesend Grammar School's expectations and culture helps families make informed decisions about their child's educational future.

Contact Taylor Tuition today to discuss how our proven approach can maximise your child's chances of securing a place at this exceptional grammar school.