Rainham Mark Grammar School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Name: Rainham Mark Grammar School
• Location: Pump Lane, Gillingham, Kent, ME8 7AJ
• Type: Co-educational Grammar School (Academy)
• Age Range: 11-18 years
• Student Numbers: Approximately 1,235 pupils
• Trust: Rainham Mark Educational Trust (RMET)
• House System: Eight houses including Aylward, Brontë, Faraday, Newton, Rutherford, Scott, Pankhurst, and Lovelace

About Rainham Mark Grammar School

Located in the heart of Kent, Rainham Mark Grammar School has established itself as a leading co-educational grammar school serving the Medway area. The school operates under the Rainham Mark Educational Trust and maintains a strong commitment to academic excellence whilst fostering leadership skills and creativity among its diverse student body.

The school's ethos centres on providing an inclusive environment where academically gifted young people can flourish regardless of their socio-economic background or ethnicity. With high expectations for both students and staff, Rainham Mark creates a motivated learning atmosphere that encourages intellectual curiosity and personal development.

The house system plays a central role in school life, with eight houses named after notable historical figures including scientists, writers, and social reformers. This structure promotes healthy competition, pastoral care, and a sense of belonging amongst the student community.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Entry to Rainham Mark Grammar School requires success in the Kent Test, the region's standardised 11+ examination. This comprehensive assessment evaluates academic potential across four key areas:

• Verbal Reasoning: Tests comprehension, vocabulary, and logical thinking through language-based problems
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Assesses spatial awareness and pattern recognition using visual puzzles
• Mathematics: Evaluates numerical skills, problem-solving abilities, and mathematical reasoning
• English: Tests reading comprehension, grammar, punctuation, and spelling

The Kent Test is designed to measure academic aptitude rather than curriculum knowledge, ensuring fair assessment regardless of primary school attended. Results determine eligibility for grammar school places throughout Kent, with Rainham Mark Grammar School seeking students who demonstrate strong intellectual potential and will thrive in a rigorous academic environment.

How to Apply

The application process for Year 7 entry at Rainham Mark Grammar School involves several important steps:

Registration for Kent Test:
Parents must register their child for the Kent Test through Medway Council during the specified registration period, typically in spring for autumn testing.

Taking the 11+ Examination:
Children sit the Kent Test at designated centres during the autumn term of Year 6, usually in September or October.

Secondary School Application:
Complete the secondary school application form through Medway Council's online portal, listing Rainham Mark Grammar School as a preference.

Application Deadline:
Submit all application materials by the deadline specified by Medway Council, typically 31st October.

Results and Offers:
Kent Test results are released in October, followed by secondary school place offers on National Offer Day in March.

Families are strongly advised to visit the school during open events and contact the admissions office for current deadline information and specific requirements.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition specialises in preparing students for grammar school entry, with particular expertise in the Kent Test format used by Rainham Mark Grammar School. Our comprehensive support includes:

Personalised 11+ Preparation:
We develop tailored study programmes addressing each component of the Kent Test, ensuring students master verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, mathematics, and English skills through targeted practice and strategic techniques.

Mock Examination Experience:
Our practice tests replicate Kent Test conditions, building confidence and familiarity with the examination format whilst identifying areas requiring additional focus.

Strategic Application Guidance:
We provide expert advice on the application process, helping families navigate Medway Council requirements and maximise their chances of securing a place at Rainham Mark Grammar School.

Ongoing Academic Support:
Beyond 11+ preparation, we offer continued tutoring to ensure students transition successfully to grammar school life and maintain academic excellence throughout their secondary education.

Our experienced tutors understand the specific demands of Kent grammar schools and work closely with families to develop confidence, academic skills, and examination technique essential for success at Rainham Mark Grammar School.