Wilmington Grammar School for Girls: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School: Wilmington Grammar School for Girls
• Location: Parsons Lane, Wilmington, Dartford, Kent, DA2 7BB
• Founded: 1958
• Type: Academy Converter (Selective Grammar School)
• Gender: Girls only
• Age Range: 11-18 years
• Students: Approximately 1,123
• Head: Mrs Michelle Lawson
• Contact: 01322 226351

About Wilmington Grammar School for Girls

Established in 1958, Wilmington Grammar School for Girls has built a reputation as one of Kent's leading selective schools for young women. Located in the heart of Dartford, the school serves the local community whilst attracting families from across North Kent who value academic excellence and character development.

The school's educational philosophy centres on three core values: respect, involvement, and initiative. This framework creates an environment where girls are encouraged to excel academically whilst developing into confident, well-rounded individuals prepared for leadership roles in their chosen fields.

With approximately 1,123 students across Years 7-13, Wilmington Grammar maintains an intimate learning environment that allows for personalised attention and strong pastoral care. The school's consistently outstanding academic results reflect both the calibre of students it attracts and the quality of teaching delivered by its dedicated staff.

Beyond academics, the school offers an extensive programme of extracurricular activities, from competitive sports teams to debating societies, ensuring students develop diverse interests and skills that complement their classroom learning.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Entry to Wilmington Grammar School for Girls is determined through the Kent Test, the county's standardised 11+ examination. This selective assessment identifies students who demonstrate the academic aptitude necessary to thrive in a grammar school environment.

Kent Test Structure

The assessment comprises two one-hour papers:

• Paper 1: English and Mathematics
  - Reading comprehension and language skills
  - Mathematical problem-solving and numerical reasoning
  - Tests fundamental literacy and numeracy at Key Stage 2 level
• Paper 2: Reasoning Skills
  - Verbal reasoning (understanding concepts through language)
  - Non-verbal reasoning (analysing visual patterns and relationships)
  - Spatial reasoning (three-dimensional thinking and shape manipulation)

Assessment Timing

The Kent Test typically takes place in September, with results released before the secondary school application deadline. Students sit both papers on the same day, usually at their current primary school or a designated test centre.

Preparation Considerations

Whilst the test aligns with Key Stage 2 curriculum expectations, many families choose to undertake focused preparation to ensure their daughter can demonstrate her full potential. The reasoning elements, in particular, benefit from familiarisation with question formats and practice with timed conditions.

How to Apply

Securing a place at Wilmington Grammar School for Girls requires careful attention to both the Kent Test registration and the formal school application process.

Step 1: Kent Test Registration

• Registration opens in early June each year
• Deadline typically falls in early July
• Registration must be completed online through Kent County Council
• No fee required for the test

Step 2: School Application

• Complete the Secondary Common Application Form (SCAF) through your local authority
• Deadline: End of October
• List Wilmington Grammar School for Girls as one of your preferences
• Consider your preference order carefully, as this affects allocation

Admissions Criteria

Places are allocated to girls who achieve the required standard in the Kent Test, with priority given according to:

1. Students with siblings already attending the school
2. Distance from the school (measured by straight-line distance)
3. Specific catchment area considerations

Due to the school's popularity, achieving the qualifying score does not guarantee a place, making early preparation and understanding of the criteria essential.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition specialises in preparing exceptional students for selective school entry, with particular expertise in the Kent Test and grammar school admissions landscape. Our approach to Wilmington Grammar School preparation combines academic rigour with strategic insight into what admissions panels seek.

Comprehensive Kent Test Preparation

Our tutors provide targeted preparation across all assessment areas, ensuring your daughter approaches the test with confidence and technique. We focus on:

• Strengthening English and Mathematics foundations
• Developing reasoning skills through structured practice
• Building exam technique and time management
• Creating familiarity with question formats and pressure conditions

Strategic Application Guidance

Beyond test preparation, we guide families through the complete admissions process, helping you understand catchment considerations, application timing, and backup school selection to maximise your chances of success.

Interview and Assessment Support

Should your daughter progress to any additional selection stages, our team provides comprehensive preparation, ensuring she can articulate her interests, achievements, and aspirations with confidence.

Ongoing Academic Development

For students who secure places, we offer transition support and ongoing tutoring to ensure they thrive in Wilmington Grammar's challenging academic environment from day one.

Our track record with Kent grammar schools, combined with our deep understanding of what makes Wilmington Grammar special, positions us perfectly to support your daughter's journey to this exceptional school.