Kingston Grammar School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Name: Kingston Grammar School (KGS)
• Location: 70 London Road, Kingston upon Thames, KT2 6PY
• Founded: 1561 (Royal Charter from Elizabeth I)
• Type: Independent co-educational day school
• Age Range: 11-18 years
• Students: Approximately 876 pupils
• Headmaster: Mr S.R. Lehec
• Term Fees: £7,820
• Scholarships: Academic, arts, drama, music, and sports awards available

About Kingston Grammar School

Kingston Grammar School represents one of England's most historic educational institutions, tracing its origins to the 13th century before receiving its Royal Charter from Elizabeth I in 1561. Located in the prestigious borough of Kingston upon Thames, this distinguished co-educational day school has evolved significantly since welcoming girls in 1978, creating a vibrant academic community of 876 pupils.

The school's exceptional academic standards are reflected in outstanding examination results, with approximately 85% of GCSE grades achieving A*/A or 9-7, whilst A-level performance demonstrates 62.7% of grades at A* or A standard. These impressive outcomes position KGS amongst the highest-performing independent schools in Southwest London.

KGS benefits from remarkable facilities including a magnificent 22-acre sports ground situated alongside the River Thames. This riverside location supports the school's nationally recognised rowing programme, whilst the extensive grounds accommodate hockey pitches that have produced teams competing at national level. The school's commitment to holistic education extends through comprehensive music, drama, and arts programmes housed in purpose-built facilities.

The school's ethos emphasises intellectual curiosity, personal responsibility, and community service, preparing pupils for leadership roles in their chosen fields. KGS maintains strong university placement records, with graduates progressing to Russell Group institutions and Oxbridge colleges.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Kingston Grammar School's 11+ entrance examination is designed to identify pupils who will thrive in the school's academically rigorous environment. The assessment takes place in January for September entry into Year 7.

Assessment Components:

• Mathematics: Problem-solving skills, numerical reasoning, and mathematical concepts appropriate to Year 6 level
• English: Reading comprehension, creative writing, grammar, and vocabulary assessment
• Verbal Reasoning: Logical thinking through language-based puzzles and analogies
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Spatial awareness, pattern recognition, and visual problem-solving

The examination format emphasises understanding rather than rote learning, seeking pupils who demonstrate genuine intellectual curiosity and analytical thinking. Practise papers and familiarisation materials are available through the school's admissions office.

Successful candidates typically score consistently across all assessment areas, demonstrating balanced academic abilities. The school seeks pupils who will contribute positively to the school community whilst benefiting from KGS's challenging academic programme.

How to Apply

The application process for Kingston Grammar School follows a structured timeline requiring careful preparation:

Application Timeline:

• September: Registration opens for the following year's entry
• October: Registration deadline (early application recommended)
• January: Entrance examinations conducted at the school
• February: Results communicated to families
• March: Acceptance deadline for offered places

Required Documentation:

• Completed application form with registration fee
• Current school report covering the previous two years
• Head teacher's reference and recommendation
• Copy of birth certificate or passport

The school welcomes visits from prospective families through scheduled open days and individual tours. These occasions provide valuable opportunities to experience the school's atmosphere and meet key staff members.

Places are offered based on examination performance, school reports, and the head teacher's assessment of the candidate's suitability for KGS's academic programme. The school maintains a waiting list for high-achieving candidates when places are limited.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition's expertise in Kingston Grammar School admissions ensures your child approaches the 11+ assessment with confidence and thorough preparation. Our specialised tutors possess intimate knowledge of KGS's specific examination format and the academic standards expected.

Our Comprehensive Support Includes:

• Diagnostic Assessment: Identifying your child's strengths and areas requiring development across all examination components
• Targeted Preparation: Customised tuition programmes addressing KGS's specific assessment criteria and question styles
• Practise Examinations: Mock assessments conducted under examination conditions with detailed performance analysis
• Strategic Guidance: Expert advice on application timing, school selection, and interview preparation

Our tutors understand the competitive nature of KGS admissions, with places highly sought after by families throughout Southwest London. We provide realistic assessments of your child's prospects whilst maximising their potential through focused preparation.

Beyond academic preparation, we offer guidance on school visits, application documentation, and understanding KGS's distinctive educational philosophy. Our support ensures families approach the admissions process with clarity and confidence.

Taylor Tuition's track record of successful KGS placements demonstrates our understanding of what the school values in prospective pupils. We help families present their child's abilities effectively whilst ensuring genuine suitability for this exceptional educational environment.