Key Information Summary
- School Type: State-maintained girls' grammar school
- Age Range: 11-18 years
- Location: London Road, Reading, Berkshire RG1 5BN
- Year 7 Places: 128 places available
- Pupils: Over 850 students
- Headteacher: Ms. Christine Kattirtzi
- OFSTED Rating: Outstanding (November 2022)
- Catchment Area: Yes, priority areas apply
About Kendrick Girls' Grammar School
Founded in 1877, Kendrick Girls' Grammar School in Reading represents academic excellence within the state sector. This selective girls' school has earned its reputation as one of Britain's premier grammar schools through consistently outstanding examination results and a commitment to developing confident, articulate young women.
Under Ms. Christine Kattirtzi's leadership, the school maintains its tradition of academic rigour whilst nurturing individual talents. The school's outstanding OFSTED rating reflects its exceptional standards across all areas of education. With over 850 pupils, Kendrick offers a vibrant learning environment where girls from diverse backgrounds come together to achieve their academic potential.
The school's ethos centres on empowering young women to become leaders in their chosen fields. Beyond academic achievement, Kendrick emphasises critical thinking, independence, and social responsibility. The school's extensive programme of extracurricular activities ensures pupils develop holistically, from debating societies to scientific research projects.
Located in Reading's heart, the school benefits from excellent transport links and serves families across Berkshire and surrounding counties. The historic buildings combine with modern facilities to provide an inspiring educational environment where tradition meets innovation.
The 11+ Assessment Process
Kendrick Girls' Grammar School uses the GL Assessment 11+ examination to select pupils for Year 7 entry. The assessment comprises two one-hour papers taken on the same day, testing academic ability across four key areas.
Assessment Components
Paper 1 and Paper 2 each contain:
- English: Reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, and language reasoning based on Key Stage 2 curriculum
- Mathematics: Problem-solving, numerical reasoning, and mathematical concepts appropriate for Year 6 level
- Verbal Reasoning: Logic puzzles, word relationships, and language-based problem solving
- Non-Verbal Reasoning: Pattern recognition, spatial awareness, and visual logic questions
Scoring and Rankings
Results are age-standardised and candidates ranked in order of performance. The school creates a waiting list from which places are allocated according to specific criteria. Priority is given to looked-after children, followed by those living within designated priority areas around Reading.
Important Dates
- Registration Opens: 1st May
- Registration Closes: 1st July
- 11+ Examination Date: Mid-September
- Results Released: Mid-October
- Secondary Application Deadline: 31st October
How to Apply
The application process for Kendrick Girls' Grammar School involves two separate but essential stages that parents must complete.
Stage 1: 11+ Registration
Parents must register their daughter for the 11+ examination through the school's designated testing authority. Registration typically opens on 1st May and closes on 1st July for September entry the following year. The examination takes place in mid-September at designated test centres.
Stage 2: Secondary School Application
Separately, parents must complete their local authority's secondary school application form, naming Kendrick as one of their preferred schools. This application deadline is 31st October, and parents should consult their local council's website for the specific common application form.
Results and Offers
11+ results are released in mid-October, providing parents with their daughter's performance before the secondary application deadline. However, passing the 11+ does not guarantee admission due to the school's significant oversubscription. Places are allocated based on the ranking system and priority criteria.
Parents should carefully consider backup options, as competition for Kendrick's 128 places is exceptionally fierce among high-achieving candidates across the region.
How Taylor Tuition Can Help
Taylor Tuition's comprehensive 11+ preparation programme is specifically designed to maximise your daughter's chances of securing a place at Kendrick Girls' Grammar School. Our expert tutors understand the precise requirements of the GL Assessment format and have successfully prepared numerous students for grammar school entry.
Targeted Preparation
Our tutors provide focused training across all four assessment areas, using proven techniques to build confidence in verbal and non-verbal reasoning whilst strengthening core English and mathematics skills. We familiarise students with GL Assessment question formats and time management strategies essential for examination success.
Personalised Approach
Each student receives an individualised learning plan based on their strengths and areas for development. Our diagnostic assessments identify specific needs, allowing us to tailor preparation to maximise improvement in the time available before the examination.
Mock Examinations and Practise
Regular practice papers under timed conditions help students develop examination technique and build confidence. Our detailed feedback helps parents understand their daughter's progress and readiness for the actual assessment.
With Taylor Tuition's expert guidance, your daughter will approach the Kendrick 11+ examination with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to demonstrate her true academic potential. Contact us today to discuss how we can support your family's grammar school aspirations.
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