Oakwood Park Grammar School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Type: Boys' grammar school with co-educational Sixth Form
• Location: Maidstone, Kent
• Founded: 1918 (current site since 1959)
• Entry Requirements: Kent Test (11+)
• Year Group Size: Approximately 160 boys per year
• Total Students: 1,095 (including 311 in Sixth Form)
• Ofsted Rating: Good overall, Outstanding for Behaviour and Sixth Form
• Status: Academy

About Oakwood Park Grammar School

Oakwood Park Grammar School has been providing exceptional education to boys in Kent for over a century. Established in 1918 and relocating to its current Maidstone site in 1959, the school combines traditional grammar school values with modern educational approaches.

The school operates as a five-form entry institution, welcoming approximately 160 boys each year through the selective 11+ process. What makes OPGS particularly distinctive is its co-educational Sixth Form, which creates a balanced learning environment for students aged 16-18 whilst maintaining the focused single-sex education for younger pupils.

Located on an attractive shared campus with other educational institutions, OPGS benefits from excellent facilities and a collaborative educational atmosphere. The school's commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its strong GCSE and A-Level results, with many Sixth Form graduates receiving offers from Russell Group universities, including Oxford and Cambridge.

Beyond academics, OPGS prides itself on developing well-rounded young men through an extensive programme of extracurricular activities. From competitive sports teams to creative arts and intellectual pursuits, students have numerous opportunities to explore their interests and develop leadership skills.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Entry to Oakwood Park Grammar School is through the Kent Test, the county's standardised 11+ examination. This selective assessment ensures that admitted students can thrive in the school's academically rigorous environment.

Assessment Components

The Kent Test comprises three key papers:

• Mathematics: Evaluates numerical reasoning, problem-solving abilities, and mathematical concepts appropriate for Year 6 students
• English: Assesses reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, and written expression skills
• Reasoning: Tests both verbal and non-verbal reasoning abilities, including pattern recognition and logical thinking

Preparation Timeline

Successful preparation for the Kent Test typically begins in Year 5, allowing students sufficient time to develop the required skills and confidence. The assessment focuses on curriculum knowledge combined with reasoning abilities that indicate potential for grammar school success.

Students should be comfortable with mathematical concepts including fractions, percentages, and algebraic thinking, whilst demonstrating strong reading comprehension and the ability to analyse complex texts. The reasoning component requires practice with various question types to build familiarity and speed.

How to Apply

The application process for Oakwood Park Grammar School follows Kent County Council's coordinated admissions scheme. Parents must register their child for the Kent Test through the local authority, typically by early July for September entry the following year.

Key Application Steps

• Register for the Kent Test through Kent County Council by the specified deadline
• Complete the Secondary School Application form, listing OPGS as a preference
• Ensure your child sits the Kent Test in September of Year 6
• Attend school open events to understand the school's ethos and facilities
• Submit all required documentation by the national application deadline

Open Events and School Visits

OPGS regularly hosts open events for prospective families, including dedicated 11+ Open Mornings typically held in October. These events provide valuable opportunities to tour the facilities, meet staff and current students, and gain insights into daily school life.

The school also arranges additional weekday open mornings for families who cannot attend weekend events. Attending these sessions is highly recommended as they help families understand whether OPGS aligns with their child's educational needs and aspirations.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

At Taylor Tuition, we understand that securing a place at a prestigious grammar school like Oakwood Park requires comprehensive preparation and strategic guidance. Our specialist 11+ programme is designed specifically for families aspiring to Kent's selective schools.

Personalised 11+ Preparation

Our experienced tutors provide targeted preparation for the Kent Test, focusing on the specific requirements of mathematics, English, and reasoning components. We develop customised learning programmes that address each student's individual strengths and areas for development, ensuring comprehensive preparation across all assessment areas.

Strategic Application Support

Beyond academic preparation, we guide families through the complex application process, helping you understand Kent's admission procedures and ensuring all deadlines are met. Our consultants provide insights into OPGS's specific expectations and help position your child's application effectively.

Ongoing Academic Excellence

For students who secure places at OPGS, we continue supporting their academic journey through our secondary school tutoring services. From GCSE preparation to Sixth Form success, we help students maximise their potential and achieve their university aspirations.

Our deep understanding of grammar school expectations, combined with our track record of successful 11+ placements, makes Taylor Tuition the ideal partner for families seeking admission to Oakwood Park Grammar School. Contact us today to discuss how we can support your child's educational journey.