Sir Roger Manwood's School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Name: Sir Roger Manwood's School
• Location: Sandwich, Kent
• Type: Co-educational Grammar School
• Founded: 1563
• Age Range: 11-18 years
• Student Numbers: Approximately 1,000 pupils
• Ofsted Rating: Outstanding
• GCSE Results: 95% achieving grade 4 or above
• Admissions: Selective entry via Kent Test (11+)
• Campus: 30-acre site in historic Sandwich

About Sir Roger Manwood's School

Sir Roger Manwood's School occupies a unique position in Kent's educational landscape as one of England's oldest grammar schools, tracing its heritage back to 1563. Located in the historic Cinque Port town of Sandwich, this co-educational grammar school has evolved from its Tudor origins into a modern centre of academic excellence whilst preserving the traditional values that have sustained it for over four centuries.

The school's founding ethos of nurturing intellectual curiosity and moral character remains central to its identity. With approximately 1,000 students across its secondary and sixth form provisions, Sir Roger Manwood's maintains an intimate learning environment where individual potential can flourish. The school's motto, 'Engage, Explore, Excel', encapsulates its commitment to developing well-rounded individuals who combine academic achievement with personal integrity.

Set within a 30-acre campus in Sandwich, the school benefits from its proximity to Canterbury and Dover, serving families across East Kent. The Outstanding Ofsted rating reflects the institution's unwavering commitment to educational excellence, with 95% of students achieving grade 4 or above at GCSE level. This academic success stems from a culture that celebrates intellectual rigour whilst fostering creativity and independent thinking.

The school's comprehensive enrichment programme extends far beyond the classroom, with students encouraged to participate in everything from debating societies to Duke of Edinburgh awards. This holistic approach ensures that Sir Roger Manwood's graduates are not merely academically accomplished but possess the leadership qualities and cultural awareness expected of tomorrow's decision-makers.

The 11+ Assessment Process at Sir Roger Manwood's

Entry to Sir Roger Manwood's School is determined by performance in the Kent Test, commonly known as the 11+. This assessment is designed to identify students who will thrive in the school's academically demanding environment and benefit from its grammar school provision.

The Kent Test comprises four key components:

• Verbal Reasoning: Assesses language comprehension, vocabulary knowledge, and the ability to solve problems using words and concepts
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Evaluates spatial awareness, pattern recognition, and logical thinking through visual puzzles
• Mathematics: Tests numerical fluency, problem-solving abilities, and mathematical reasoning appropriate to Key Stage 2 level
• English: Examines reading comprehension, grammar understanding, and written communication skills

The assessment takes place in September of Year 6, with results typically released in October. Students achieving qualifying scores are eligible for grammar school places, with final allocations determined through Kent County Council's coordinated admissions process.

Sir Roger Manwood's welcomes approximately 180 new Year 7 students annually, making it one of the more accessible grammar schools in East Kent. The school seeks students who demonstrate not only academic potential but also the curiosity and resilience necessary to excel in its challenging yet supportive environment.

How to Apply

The application process for Sir Roger Manwood's School follows Kent County Council's standardised procedure for grammar school admissions:

Stage One: Kent Test Registration
Parents must register their child for the Kent Test, typically completed online through Kent County Council between May and July of Year 5. Late registrations may be accepted in exceptional circumstances, though early application is strongly recommended.

Stage Two: Secondary School Application
Complete the Common Application Form (CAF) through your home local authority, listing Sir Roger Manwood's School among your preferences. This application window typically runs from September to October of Year 6.

Stage Three: Assessment and Results
Students sit the Kent Test in September, with qualifying scores announced in October. Successful candidates proceed to the allocation phase, where places are awarded based on the school's oversubscription criteria.

Key Dates:

• May-July (Year 5): Kent Test registration opens
• September (Year 6): Kent Test assessment
• October (Year 6): Results released and secondary applications open
• October 31st: Secondary application deadline
• March 1st: National offer day

Families are encouraged to attend the school's open events, typically held in September and October, to experience the Sir Roger Manwood's community firsthand and understand how their child might flourish within its distinctive environment.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition's comprehensive preparation programme is specifically designed to help students excel in the Kent Test whilst developing the intellectual foundations necessary for success at grammar schools like Sir Roger Manwood's.

Our expert tutors understand that preparation for Sir Roger Manwood's extends beyond simply passing the 11+. We focus on developing the analytical thinking, academic curiosity, and learning independence that characterise successful students at this distinguished institution.

Tailored Kent Test Preparation:

• Personalised assessment of your child's current abilities across all four test components
• Structured revision programmes addressing specific areas for improvement
• Regular practice tests using authentic Kent Test materials and timing
• Development of effective exam techniques and time management strategies

Academic Foundation Building:

• Strengthening core mathematical concepts and problem-solving approaches
• Enhancing reading comprehension and analytical writing skills
• Developing verbal and non-verbal reasoning through targeted exercises
• Building confidence and resilience for high-pressure assessment situations

Grammar School Preparation:
Beyond test preparation, our tutors help students develop the study skills, intellectual curiosity, and academic independence essential for thriving in Sir Roger Manwood's demanding yet rewarding environment.

With our deep understanding of grammar school expectations and proven track record of successful placements, Taylor Tuition provides the expert guidance and personalised support your child needs to achieve their place at Sir Roger Manwood's School and excel throughout their grammar school journey.