Barton Court Grammar School 11+
Crucial 11+ info, past 11+ papers and practice 11+ papers for Barton Court Grammar School.
How to get into Barton Court Grammar School
Barton Court Grammar School is a selective secondary school in Kent. To get into Barton Court Grammar School children need to pass the school's 11+ entrance test. Here is the step-by-step guide to getting your child into Barton Court Grammar School with all the important information you need to know.
Admission Requirements
Children born between 1st September 2014 and 31st August 2015 are eligible for Year 7 entry in September 2026 (see key dates). The school offers 150 places annually [1].
Barton Court Grammar School is a co-educational selective school in Canterbury, Kent [1]. Barton Court Grammar School does not have a formal catchment area, meaning families from any location can apply.
The school uses the Kent Test for admissions assessment. Children need a total score of 332 or more, with no single score lower than 106 to qualify for grammar school admission.
Application Process
Families must complete two separate applications for entry to Barton Court Grammar School. First, register for the Kent Test then complete the school application.
Registration for the Kent Test opens on 2nd June 2025 and closes on 1st July 2025 (see key dates). Late registrations cannot be accepted.
- Register online through the Kent County Council website during the registration window
- Complete the Secondary Common Application Form (SCAF) through the local authority from September 2025 (see key dates)
- Submit the school application by 31st October 2025 (see key dates)
- Families can name up to four schools on their application
- Contact details available in the school information section
Children with special educational needs requiring additional support must have arrangements discussed with their school's SEN coordinator, with requests made by 1st July 2025 (see key dates).
Examination Details
Children take the Kent Test which consists of two one-hour papers. Results are sent on Thursday 16th October 2025 (see key dates) by email or post.
One paper lasts one hour and assesses English and maths based on the Key Stage 2 national curriculum. The other paper tests verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning and spatial reasoning, which are not taught at school.
- English and Mathematics paper covering Key Stage 2 curriculum content
- Reasoning paper testing verbal, non-verbal and spatial reasoning abilities
- Multiple choice format supplied by GL Assessment
- Writing task lasting 40 minutes including 10 minutes preparation time
- Writing task used for borderline cases only, not part of main assessment
Oversubscription Criteria
If more than 150 children achieve qualifying scores, the school applies oversubscription criteria [1]. Children are prioritised by distance, with those living closest to the school given priority.
Priority order for places when oversubscribed:
- Looked after children and previously looked after children
- Children receiving Pupil Premium with completed Supplementary Information Form
- Distance from school measured in a straight line from home address
- Random selection applied if multiple families share identical distances
Families not offered a place can join the waiting list maintained until April 2026 (see key dates). The same admissions criteria apply to waiting list rankings.
Preparation Guidance
Families should begin preparation approximately 12-18 months before the test date. Children should have a good understanding of Year 6 content before attempting practice papers, using a 'little and often' approach.
The school recommends starting with curriculum content review before moving to practice papers. Jumping straight into practice papers can cause children to feel demotivated.
- Begin with Year 5 curriculum consolidation in English and Mathematics
- Introduce reasoning concepts through basic verbal and non-verbal reasoning exercises
- Practice timed conditions once children are confident with content
- Use Kent Test specific practice materials for accurate preparation
- Focus on exam technique and time management skills
- For free practice resources visit practice papers
- For tutoring support visit tutoring services
Practical Advice
Ensure children are well-rested and have eaten a nutritious breakfast on exam day. The school aims to make the examination experience as stress-free as possible [1].
On examination day, children should arrive early and bring required equipment. The test takes place at their current primary school for Kent pupils, or at designated centres for those attending schools outside Kent.
- Arrive at the test venue 15 minutes early to settle in
- Bring sharp pencils and erasers as required equipment
- Read instructions carefully and manage time effectively during papers
- Stay calm if unsure of answers and move on to avoid losing time
- Use educated guessing for multiple choice questions when necessary
Consider alternative grammar schools in Kent as backup options. Passing the 11 plus doesn't guarantee a place at preferred schools as many are oversubscribed. Research schools such as Canterbury High School, Simon Langton Boys' Grammar School, and Simon Langton Girls' Grammar School.
For specific school policies and contact information, families should refer to the school information section.
Kent 11+ Test Information
In order to get into Barton Court Grammar School, children need to pass the Kent 11+ Test. This 11+ test is written by GL Assessment for use by the school's admissions process.
Kent 11+ Test Subjects & Structure
The Kent 11+ Test requires children to complete tests in the following subjects:
- English
- Maths
- Verbal Reasoning
- Non-Verbal Reasoning
- Spatial Reasoning
The entrance examination for Barton Court Grammar School, known as the Kent Test, is a challenging assessment designed to evaluate the academic potential of prospective students. This comprehensive test, provided by GL Assessment, consists of two distinct multiple-choice papers that cover a range of subjects essential for success in secondary education.
The first paper, spanning one hour, focuses on English and maths. The questions in this section are closely aligned with the Key Stage 2 national curriculum, ensuring that students have a solid foundation in these core subjects. The second paper, also lasting one hour, assesses verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, and spatial reasoning. These subjects may be less familiar to students, as they are not typically taught in primary schools.
To excel in the Kent Test and secure a place at Barton Court Grammar School, students must demonstrate a high level of proficiency across all five subjects. Strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills are essential for success in this rigorous examination. By carefully evaluating each student's performance, the school aims to identify those who possess the academic aptitude and potential to thrive in a challenging grammar school environment.
Other Schools using Kent 11+ Test
As well as Barton Court Grammar School, several other schools also use Kent 11+ Test. These are:
- Borden Grammar School
- Chatham & Clarendon Grammar School
- Cranbrook School
- Dane Court Grammar School
- Dartford Grammar School
- Dartford Grammar School for Girls
- Dover Grammar School for Boys
- Dover Grammar School for Girls
- Gravesend Grammar School
- Highsted Grammar School
- Highworth Grammar School
- Invicta Grammar School
- Maidstone Grammar School
- Maidstone Grammar School for Girls
- Mayfield Grammar School, Gravesend
- Oakwood Park Grammar School
- Queen Elizabeth's Grammar School
- Simon Langton Girls' Grammar School
- Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys
- Sir Roger Manwood's School
- The Folkestone School for Girls
- The Harvey Grammar School
- The Judd School
- The Norton Knatchbull School
- The Skinners' School
- Tonbridge Grammar School
- Tunbridge Wells Girls' Grammar School
- Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys
- Weald of Kent Grammar School
- Wilmington Grammar School for Boys
- Wilmington Grammar School for Girls
Kent 11+ Test Marking Process
The reality of 11+ tests, selective education and academic institutions such as Barton Court Grammar School is that only children with particularly high marks are admitted. Hence why it is important that children perform well in their 11+ papers.
Different schools (and different 11+ tests) have different marking processes. Some tests are marked in person, some remotely, while others utilise computer-based optical recognition technologies for quickly marking multiple-choice answer sheets.
Many 11+ tests are age-standardised to ensure younger children are not disadvantaged (i.e. their marks may be moderated depending on the month in which they were born). While creative writing papers can be used as tie-breakers, multiple-choice tests in Maths, Comprehension, Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning normally make up the bulk of a child's marks. The specific details and weightings can vary from year to year.
It's worth remembering that once children's 11+ tests are being marked, the admissions process is completely outside of the parents' control. Hence, parents should not worry themselves about whether their child has got a place!
Kent 11+ Test Pass Mark
The pass mark for the Kent 11+ Test changes every year and isn't generally made public knowledge. This is due to the academic strength of the children taking the test varying and how challenging the test ends up being (as well as plenty of other smaller variables).
Hence, as a vague rule-of-thumb, it's recommended that children aim for roughly 75-80% in their practice tests. Whilst this won't guarantee them a place at Barton Court Grammar School, it's a ballpark exam result figure for successful candidates.
Key Dates for the Barton Court Grammar School 11+ Entrance Tests
Here are all the important dates for the 11+ tests (to get into Barton Court Grammar School) as well as other relevant dates.
| Date | Event | Calendar Link |
|---|---|---|
| 02/06/2025 | Kent Test Registration Opens | Add Dates to Calendar |
| 01/07/2025 | Kent Test Registration Closes | |
| 11/09/2025 | Kent Test Date For Children In Kent Primary Schools | |
| Mid October | Kent Test Results Sent To Parents | |
| Late October | Secondary School Common Application Deadline | |
| 02/03/2026 | National School Offers Day |
Although the utmost care has been taken to gather these dates, parents should treat them as a guide and check with Barton Court Grammar School as they may well change.
11+ Tutor for Barton Court Grammar School
As the Kent 11+ Test entrance process is particularly gruelling, we would highly recommend using an 11+ private tutor.
Why use a private 11+ tutor?
Personal tutors have the experience and expertise to help children pass their 11+ exams. They know the requirements of the GL Assessment 11+ tests inside-out and can provide tailored support to give children the best possible chance of success. It's also important to bear in mind that plenty of other children will be using private tutors too.
11+ tutors don't need to be face-to-face, plenty of children use online 11+ tutors.
11+ tutors can also provide regular progress reports and feedback, helping parents to monitor their child's progress and make any necessary adjustments to their preparation.
Most importantly, using an 11+ tutor helps ensure that the preparation work gets done!
Private 11+ Tutors for the Barton Court Grammar School 11+ Tests
We have a range of private tutors who specialise in preparing children for the Barton Court Grammar School 11+ entrance tests. Please click here to be put in touch with a range of excellent 11+ private tutors from our friends at exams.courses.
11+ Past Papers for Barton Court Grammar School
Here are all available past 11+ papers for Barton Court Grammar School. Please note that this may include 11+ past papers, past familiarisation booklets, past practice materials published by third parties and past 11+ exam guides written by the school. These materials are provided 'as-is' and may no longer reflect the subjects, format, structure or exam board that Barton Court Grammar School currently uses.
The exam board (or test supplier) that Barton Court Grammar School chooses to use for their 11+ entrance tests can change and we encourage you to check directly with the school.
As well as these past 11+ papers, you may find our extensive collection of 11+ practice papers helpful for your child's preparation.
| Exam Board | Subject | 11+ Past Paper |
|---|---|---|
| GL Assessment | Mixed |
11+ Practice Papers for Barton Court Grammar School
Here are some superb free 11+ practice papers that children can download and use to help prepare for the Kent 11+ Test Ensure you double-check with Barton Court Grammar School which subjects and topics your child's 11+ tests are in to ensure you prepare for the right tests.
This is just a sample of our extensive collection of 11+ practice papers. Please click here to see the full collection.
11+ Practice Papers for Barton Court Grammar School by Bond
These Free GL 11+ Practice Papers were published by Bond and cover and cover all the main 11+ subjects: English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning. As such they are very helpful for children hoping to pass the Kent 11+ Test to get into Barton Court Grammar School.
| Exam Board | Subject | Question Booklet | Answers |
|---|---|---|---|
| GL Assessment | English | ||
| GL Assessment | Maths | ||
| GL Assessment | Non-Verbal Reasoning | ||
| GL Assessment | Verbal Reasoning | ||
| GL Assessment | Mixed |
11+ Practice Papers for Barton Court Grammar School by GL Assessment
These Free GL 11+ Practice Papers were published by GL Assessment themselves. As with the Bond papers, they cover all the main 11+ subjects: English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning. They remain useful and we encourage parents to download and use them with their children to help them get into Barton Court Grammar School.
| Exam Board | Subject | Answer Sheet | Question Booklet | Answers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GL Assessment | English | |||
| GL Assessment | Maths | |||
| GL Assessment | Non-Verbal Reasoning | |||
| GL Assessment | Verbal Reasoning | |||
| GL Assessment | Mixed |
11+ Practice Papers for Barton Court Grammar School by Exam Ninja
These Free 11+ Practice Tests by Exam Ninja are extremely useful. They are straight-forward 10-question tests in Maths and English, following the same GL Assessment style (and multiple-choice format) as the Kent 11+ Test.
| Exam Board | Subject | Question Booklet | Answers |
|---|---|---|---|
| GL Assessment | Maths | ||
| GL Assessment | English |
11+ Practice Papers for Barton Court Grammar School by Owl Tutors
These Free 11+ Practice Papers were published by Owl Tutors. These too are written in a GL Assessment style and make useful practice for children hoping to get into Barton Court Grammar School.
| Exam Board | Subject | Question Booklet | Answers |
|---|---|---|---|
| GL Assessment | English | ||
| GL Assessment | Writing | ||
| GL Assessment | Maths | ||
| GL Assessment | Verbal Reasoning |
11+ Practice Papers for Barton Court Grammar School by CGP
These Free 11+ Practice Papers were published by CGP and we thank them for granting us permission to distribute them. As with the Bond, GL Assessment and Exam Ninja papers, they're written for the GL Assessment style, in multiple-choice format and are helpful for children hoping to pass their 11+ tests and get into Barton Court Grammar School.
| Exam Board | Subject | Answer Sheet | Question Booklet | Answers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GL Assessment | Maths | |||
| GL Assessment | English | |||
| GL Assessment | Verbal Reasoning | |||
| GL Assessment | Non-Verbal Reasoning |
These Free CEM 11+ Practice Papers were published by CGP and we thank them for granting us permission to distribute them. If Barton Court Grammar School ever used them then they don't anymore as grammar schools no longer use CEM for any of their 11+ entrance tests. However, as a general practice tool these 11+ tests remain useful.
| Exam Board | Subject | Answer Sheet | Question Booklet | Answers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CEM | Maths | |||
| CEM | Verbal Reasoning | |||
| CEM | Non-Verbal Reasoning |
11+ Practice Papers for Barton Court Grammar School by 11+ For You
These Free 11+ Practice Papers were published some time ago by "11+ For You".
| Exam Board | Subject | Question Booklet | Answers |
|---|---|---|---|
| GL Assessment | Verbal Reasoning |
11+ Practice Papers for Barton Court Grammar School by Examberry
These Free 11+ Practice Papers were published some time ago by "Examberry".
| Exam Board | Subject | Answer Sheet | Question Booklet | Answers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GL Assessment | Non-Verbal Reasoning |
11+ Practice Papers for Barton Court Grammar School by Independent Junction
These Free 11+ Practice Papers were published some time ago by Independent Junction.
| Exam Board | Subject | Question Booklet | Answers |
|---|---|---|---|
| GL Assessment | Verbal Reasoning |
11+ Practice Papers for Barton Court Grammar School by IPS
These Free 11+ Practice Papers were published some time ago by IPS (Internet Primary School Ltd).
| Exam Board | Subject | Answer Sheet | Question Booklet | Answers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GL Assessment | Verbal Reasoning | |||
| GL Assessment | Maths |
11+ Practice Papers for Barton Court Grammar School by Schofield & Sims
These 11+ practice papers were published by Schofield & Sims, a large UK educational publisher.
| Exam Board | Subject | Question Booklet | Answers |
|---|---|---|---|
| GL Assessment | Verbal Reasoning | ||
| GL Assessment | Maths |
School Information
Below you will find further information about Barton Court Grammar School together with their admissions contact details.
| Address | Barton Court Grammar School, Longport, Canterbury, Kent CT1 1PH |
|---|---|
| School Website | https://www.bartoncourt.org/ |
| Telephone | 01227464600 |
| Email Address | office@bartoncourt.org |
| Gender | Mixed (both girls and boys) |
| Total Year 7 Places | 150 |
| Total Pupils (Girls/Boys) | 985 (408 Girls / 577 Boys) |
| Headteacher | Mr Jonathan Hopkins |
Barton Court Grammar School is a mixed (i.e. both girls and boys) school. It is also an academy, meaning the school is run independently by a trust or sponsor and is directly funded by the central government (not the local authority).
In total 985 pupils attend Barton Court Grammar School and it's led by the Headteacher, Mr Jonathan Hopkins.
Barton Court Grammar School Location
Below you will find a map showing the school's location:
Ofsted Information
Barton Court Grammar School was last inspected by Ofsted on 11/02/2020 and the inspection only lasted one day. Ofsted published their report on 08/03/2020, declaring that the school was 'Good'. This information is summarised in the table below along with a link to the full report.
Last Ofsted Report Data
| Date Inspected | Inspection Duration (Days) | Reporting Date | Rating | Full Report | 11/02/2020 | 1 | 08/03/2020 | Good | Full Report |
|---|
Ofsted Report Summary
Barton Court Grammar School was inspected by Ofsted on 11 February 2020 and received an overall outcome of Good. The school demonstrated Outstanding performance in several areas, including Behaviour and attitudes, Personal development, and Leadership and management. The Quality of education and Sixth form provision were both rated as Good.
The inspection report highlights the school's exceptional strengths in fostering positive behaviour, personal growth, and effective leadership. Students at Barton Court Grammar School benefit from an environment that nurtures their development and encourages them to excel academically and personally.
While the school's overall performance is commendable, there is still room for improvement in the Quality of education and Sixth form provision to reach the same Outstanding level as the other areas. Nonetheless, the school's Good rating in these areas demonstrates a solid foundation for continued growth and success.
GCSE & A-Level Subjects
Below you will find a complete list of GCSE and A-Level subjects offered to pupils at Barton Court Grammar School for the 2022-23 academic year.
| GCSE Subjects Offered |
|
|---|---|
| A-Level Subjects Offered |
|
GCSE & A-Level Performance
Below are the individual GCSE and A-Level performance tables for Barton Court Grammar School per subject. Note that this may include children taking GCSEs early (e.g. taking a language GCSE in Year 10) or indeed a child in Year 12 retaking a GCSE.
GCSE Results Information (2022-23)
| Subject | Total Pupils | Grades Achieved | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | ||
| Art & Design | 47 | - | - | 1 | 2 | 2 | 8 | 10 | 13 | 8 | 3 |
| Biology | 146 | - | - | - | 3 | 11 | 28 | 34 | 29 | 20 | 21 |
| Chemistry | 146 | - | - | 1 | 3 | 18 | 31 | 30 | 28 | 22 | 13 |
| Computer Studies/Computing | 47 | - | 3 | - | 3 | 8 | 12 | 13 | 4 | 3 | 1 |
| Design & Technology | 34 | - | - | - | 1 | 3 | 4 | 10 | 6 | 6 | 4 |
| English Language | 146 | - | - | 3 | 10 | 12 | 44 | 35 | 20 | 15 | 7 |
| English Literature | 146 | - | 1 | - | 5 | 12 | 28 | 53 | 25 | 16 | 6 |
| D&T Food Technology | 19 | - | - | - | 1 | 1 | 4 | 7 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| French | 55 | 5 | 1 | 3 | 8 | 15 | 5 | 3 | 7 | 3 | 5 |
| Geography | 68 | - | - | - | 1 | 7 | 12 | 20 | 13 | 9 | 6 |
| German | 10 | - | - | - | - | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 4 |
| History | 78 | - | 1 | 2 | 2 | 5 | 11 | 14 | 19 | 15 | 9 |
| Mathematics | 146 | - | - | 1 | 2 | 17 | 29 | 44 | 26 | 20 | 7 |
| Music | 17 | - | - | - | 2 | - | 4 | 8 | 1 | 2 | - |
| Physics | 146 | 2 | - | - | 6 | 15 | 36 | 42 | 14 | 18 | 13 |
| Psychology | 49 | - | - | - | 2 | 8 | 11 | 14 | 6 | 5 | 3 |
| Religious Studies | 145 | - | - | 2 | 7 | 17 | 30 | 40 | 23 | 21 | 5 |
| Spanish | 100 | 10 | 1 | 3 | 17 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 13 | 7 | 5 |
| Drama & Theatre Studies | 25 | - | - | - | 1 | 2 | 5 | 12 | 2 | 2 | 1 |
| Physical Education/Sports Studies | 33 | - | - | - | - | 2 | 12 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
A-Level Results Information (2022-23)
| Subject | Total Pupils | Grades Achieved | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U | E | D | C | B | A | A* | |||||
| Art and Design | 8 | - | - | - | 2 | 5 | 1 | - | |||
| Art and Design (Photography) | 7 | - | 1 | - | 2 | 3 | 1 | - | |||
| Biology | 37 | - | 4 | 6 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 5 | |||
| Chemistry | 23 | - | 3 | 2 | 5 | 2 | 8 | 2 | |||
| Computer Studies / Computing | 14 | - | - | 5 | 2 | 4 | 3 | - | |||
| Design and Technology (Product Design) | 8 | - | 1 | 3 | 2 | 2 | - | - | |||
| Drama and Theatre Studies | 7 | - | - | - | 5 | 1 | 1 | - | |||
| English Literature | 27 | - | - | 6 | 6 | 8 | 6 | 1 | |||
| Film Studies | 20 | - | - | - | 5 | 10 | 5 | - | |||
| Geography | 13 | - | 2 | 2 | 3 | 5 | - | 1 | |||
| Government and Politics | 12 | - | - | - | 2 | 5 | 3 | 2 | |||
| History | 12 | - | - | 1 | 2 | 1 | 6 | 2 | |||
| Logic / Philosophy | 14 | - | 1 | 2 | 7 | 2 | - | - | |||
| Mathematics | 37 | - | 5 | 5 | 6 | 9 | 9 | 1 | |||
| Music | 6 | - | - | - | 3 | 2 | - | 1 | |||
| Physics | 23 | - | 5 | 4 | - | 8 | 4 | 2 | |||
| Psychology | 28 | - | 2 | 4 | 9 | 9 | 1 | 2 | |||
| Sociology | 23 | - | - | 5 | 3 | 11 | 3 | 1 | |||
| Spanish | 8 | - | 1 | 2 | 3 | - | 2 | - | |||
FAQ
Is Barton Court Grammar School hard to get into?
Yes, Barton Court Grammar School is hard to get into! Children need to pass their challenging 11+ entrance test (with a high pass mark) and there's tough competition with many other children trying to get a place for Year 7.
Is Barton Court Grammar School a private school?
No, Barton Court Grammar School is one of the few remaining academically selective, state-funded grammar schools left in England.
Is Barton Court Grammar School free?
Yes, Barton Court Grammar School is free, there are no school fees. Thus, sending your child to Barton Court Grammar School won't cost you any money.
How do I get my child into Barton Court Grammar School?
You need to apply to take the school's 11+ test. Contact Barton Court Grammar School for how up to date information on how to apply (it may be automatic or it may require some forms to be filled in). More information on their 11+ entrance test can be found here.
