Kirkham Grammar School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School: Kirkham Grammar School
• Location: Ribby Road, Kirkham, Preston, Lancashire, PR4 2BH
• Established: 1549
• Type: Co-educational independent day and boarding school
• Age Range: 3-19 years
• Students: Approximately 809
• Head: Mrs Deborah Parkinson
• Day Fees: £3,534-£4,729 per term
• Boarding Fees: £9,099-£9,329 per term

About Kirkham Grammar School

Founded in 1549, Kirkham Grammar School is one of England's oldest educational institutions, originally established as a chantry school connected to St Michael's Church. This historic Lancashire school has evolved into a selective co-educational establishment that combines nearly five centuries of tradition with modern educational excellence.

The school relocated to its current Ribby Road site in 1911, where it has developed into a thriving academic community serving approximately 809 students from ages 3 to 19. Kirkham Grammar School is renowned for its distinctive family ethos, which creates a supportive environment where inspirational teaching enables every student to fulfil their potential.

The school's academic credentials are enhanced by strategic partnerships, including collaboration with BAE Systems, which provides students with exceptional opportunities in technical and engineering fields. This partnership reflects the school's commitment to preparing students for future careers in emerging industries whilst maintaining strong foundations in traditional academic subjects.

Located in the market town of Kirkham, the school benefits from its Lancashire setting whilst maintaining excellent transport links to Preston and the broader North West region. The campus features modern facilities that support both rigorous academic study and extensive extracurricular programmes across sports, arts, and technology.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Kirkham Grammar School employs a comprehensive 11+ assessment designed to identify students who will thrive in their academically selective environment. The entrance examination evaluates candidates across multiple disciplines to ensure they possess both the intellectual capability and personal qualities that align with the school's educational philosophy.

The assessment covers four core areas:

• Mathematics: Problem-solving skills, numerical reasoning, and mathematical comprehension appropriate for Year 7 entry
• English: Reading comprehension, creative writing abilities, and vocabulary assessment demonstrating linguistic proficiency
• Verbal Reasoning: Logical thinking, pattern recognition, and analytical skills using language-based problems
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Spatial awareness, abstract thinking, and problem-solving using visual and diagrammatic challenges

The school seeks students who demonstrate not only academic potential but also the curiosity, resilience, and collaborative spirit that characterise the Kirkham Grammar community. The assessment process is designed to identify candidates who will contribute positively to the school's family atmosphere whilst benefiting from its challenging academic programme.

How to Apply

The application process for Kirkham Grammar School follows a structured pathway designed to ensure thorough evaluation of each candidate:

• Initial Enquiry: Contact the admissions office on +44 1772 684264 or visit kirkhamgrammar.co.uk to request information and application materials
• Application Submission: Complete the comprehensive application form with accurate student information, educational history, and supporting documentation
• Documentation: Provide recent school reports, teacher references, and any relevant certificates or awards that demonstrate academic achievement
• Entrance Assessment: Attend the scheduled 11+ examination covering mathematics, English, verbal reasoning, and non-verbal reasoning
• Interview Process: Participate in an individual interview to assess personal suitability for the school's ethos and educational approach
• Decision: Receive formal notification of admission decision with detailed feedback on assessment performance

The school encourages early application to ensure adequate preparation time and optimal scheduling for assessment appointments. Kirkham Grammar School welcomes school visits to help families understand the educational environment and community culture before making their application.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition's expertise in Lancashire independent school admissions provides families with comprehensive support for Kirkham Grammar School applications. Our deep understanding of the school's selective process and academic expectations ensures students arrive at their assessment optimally prepared and confident.

Our personalised preparation programme addresses each component of Kirkham Grammar's 11+ assessment:

• Mathematics Mastery: Advanced problem-solving techniques and numerical reasoning skills that exceed national curriculum expectations
• English Excellence: Sophisticated comprehension strategies and creative writing development tailored to selective school standards
• Reasoning Expertise: Comprehensive training in both verbal and non-verbal reasoning with extensive practice using past paper styles
• Interview Preparation: Confidence-building sessions that help students articulate their interests and demonstrate alignment with school values

Our consultants maintain detailed knowledge of Kirkham Grammar School's educational philosophy and can advise families on how to present their child's unique strengths effectively. We provide strategic guidance on timing applications, preparing supporting documentation, and understanding the school's expectations for successful candidates.

Through our proven track record with Lancashire independent schools, Taylor Tuition ensures families approach the Kirkham Grammar School application process with confidence, maximising their prospects of securing a place at this prestigious institution.