Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Name: Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys
• Location: Langton Lane, Nackington Road, Canterbury, Kent, CT4 7AS
• Established: 1881
• Type: Selective grammar school for boys (11-18) with mixed sixth form
• Headteacher: Dr. Ken Moffat
• Student Population: Approximately 1,400 students
• Entry Points: Year 7 (11+) and Sixth Form
• Admissions Authority: Kent County Council

About Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys

Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys, affectionately known as "The Langton," has been a cornerstone of educational excellence in Canterbury since 1881. This historic institution has cultivated a distinctive academic philosophy centred on open-ended research and intellectual curiosity, preparing students for the challenges of higher education and beyond.

The school's academic pedigree is exceptional, with a remarkable track record of securing places at Oxford and Cambridge universities. What sets The Langton apart is its commitment to developing confident, self-assured young men who think critically and engage deeply with their subjects. The curriculum encourages students to go beyond prescribed boundaries, fostering the analytical skills essential for success at the most prestigious universities.

Operating through a traditional house system, the school maintains strong connections to its Canterbury heritage whilst embracing modern educational methods. The school's distinctive maroon and blue blazer with red, yellow, and blue tie reflects its proud traditions, whilst the diverse sixth form environment provides an excellent transition to university life.

Located in the cathedral city of Canterbury, students benefit from the rich cultural and historical environment, with many taking advantage of the city's academic resources and cultural offerings. The school's proximity to both London and Europe provides additional opportunities for educational enrichment.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys participates in Kent's selective 11+ system, which determines entry to all grammar schools in the county. The assessment is designed to identify students with the academic potential to thrive in a grammar school environment.

Assessment Components

The Kent 11+ comprises three key areas:

• Verbal Reasoning: Tests logical thinking, vocabulary knowledge, and ability to analyse written information. Students must demonstrate sophisticated language comprehension and reasoning skills.
• Mathematics: Covers numerical reasoning, problem-solving, and mathematical concepts appropriate to Key Stage 2. Emphasis is placed on applying mathematical knowledge to solve complex problems.
• English: Evaluates reading comprehension, grammar, spelling, and writing ability. Students must show proficiency in analysing texts and expressing ideas clearly.

Scoring and Selection

Students must achieve the Kent qualifying score to be eligible for grammar school places. The Langton typically receives applications from high-achieving candidates, making competition particularly intense. Academic potential rather than coached performance is prioritised in the selection process.

How to Apply

The application process for Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys follows Kent County Council's coordinated admissions system:

Key Steps

1. Registration for 11+ Assessment: Register through Kent County Council between May and June for the following September entry. Late registrations are not accepted.
2. 11+ Test Date: The Kent 11+ typically takes place in September, approximately one year before entry.
3. School Preference Application: Submit your school preferences through Kent's online system by the October deadline, ranking up to four grammar schools in order of preference.
4. Results Notification: Receive 11+ results in October, followed by school place allocations in March.

Admission Criteria

Following achievement of the Kent qualifying score, places are allocated based on:

• Students in public care or previously in public care
• Students with exceptional medical or social circumstances
• Proximity to the school (measured by straight-line distance)

Important Deadlines

• May-June: 11+ registration opens
• September: 11+ assessment takes place
• October: School preference deadline
• March: Secondary school places allocated

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition's proven expertise in grammar school preparation has helped numerous families secure places at Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys. Our comprehensive approach addresses the unique challenges of Kent's competitive 11+ system.

Personalised 11+ Preparation

Our experienced tutors provide targeted preparation across all three assessment areas:

• Verbal Reasoning Mastery: Systematic approach to complex reasoning patterns and vocabulary development essential for grammar school success
• Mathematical Excellence: Advanced problem-solving techniques and confidence-building strategies for challenging numerical reasoning questions
• English Proficiency: Sophisticated comprehension skills and writing techniques that demonstrate analytical thinking

Strategic Application Guidance

Our admissions specialists provide invaluable support throughout the application process:

• Optimal school ranking strategies to maximise chances of securing a grammar school place
• Detailed analysis of catchment areas and historical admission data
• Comprehensive timeline management ensuring no critical deadlines are missed
• Alternative school recommendations aligned with your child's academic profile

Ongoing Academic Support

Beyond 11+ preparation, Taylor Tuition offers continued support for students who secure places:

• Summer preparation programmes to ensure smooth transition to grammar school academic demands
• Subject-specific tutoring to maintain high standards throughout secondary education
• University preparation guidance, drawing on our extensive experience with Oxbridge applications

With our deep understanding of grammar school expectations and proven track record of success, Taylor Tuition provides the expert guidance needed to navigate the competitive journey to Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys.