Maidstone Grammar School 11+

Crucial 11+ info, past 11+ papers and practice 11+ papers for Maidstone Grammar School.

How to get into Maidstone Grammar School

Maidstone Grammar School is a selective secondary school in Kent. To get into Maidstone Grammar School children need to pass the school's 11+ entrance test. Here is the step-by-step guide to getting your child into Maidstone Grammar School with all the important information you need to know.

School Overview

Maidstone Grammar School, established in 1549 by Royal Charter, is a selective school for boys, with girls admitted in the Sixth Form [1]. The school is located at Barton Road, Maidstone, Kent ME15 7BT and offers 205 places annually for Year 7 entry according to published admission numbers.

With a current enrolment of around 1,450 students, including over 300 in the Sixth Form, the school is renowned for its rigorous academic programme [1]. The school welcomes boys from Year 7 through to Year 11, with both boys and girls admitted to the sixth form.

Admission Requirements

Children born between 1st September 2014 and 31st August 2015 are eligible for Year 7 entry in September 2026 (see key dates) according to Kent County Council guidelines. All applicants must achieve qualifying scores in the Kent 11+ Test to be considered for admission.

All images © Maidstone Grammar School.
All images © Maidstone Grammar School.

Children need a total score of 332 or higher and no single score lower than 107 to qualify for a place at a Kent grammar school. Students who achieve these scores are then ranked according to the school's oversubscription criteria if there are more applications than places available.

  • Children must take the Kent 11+ Test during Year 6
  • No specific catchment area restrictions - Maidstone Grammar School does not have a catchment area
  • Priority given to children with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCP) naming the school
  • Applications processed through Kent County Council's coordinated admissions scheme

Application Process

Families must complete two separate processes: registering for the Kent 11+ Test and submitting a secondary school application. Registration for the Kent Test opens on 2nd June 2025 and closes on 1st July 2025 (see key dates) according to the registration timeline.

The Kent 11+ Test takes place in September 2025 (see key dates), with results sent to families on 16th October 2025 (see key dates) through email or post. Secondary school applications must be submitted by 31st October 2025 (see key dates).

All images © Maidstone Grammar School.
All images © Maidstone Grammar School.
  • Register for the Kent 11+ Test through Kent County Council website
  • Submit Secondary Common Application Form (SCAF) naming Maidstone Grammar School as a preference
  • Provide proof of address and child's birth certificate when requested
  • Complete Supplementary Information Form only if applying under Free School Meals criteria
  • Contact the school information section for specific admission queries

Oversubscription Criteria

When more than 205 children achieve qualifying scores, places are allocated according to priority criteria. If more than 205 children applying to Maidstone Grammar School achieve these scores, the school applies oversubscription criteria.

The school prioritises children in specific parishes who achieve scores of 360 or more with children in specific parishes who score 360 or more getting priority. Within each category, places are allocated based on Free School Meals status, sibling connections, and distance from school.

  • First priority: Children with EHCP naming the school
  • Second priority: Looked after and previously looked after children
  • Third priority: Qualifying children from listed parishes scoring 360+ points
  • Fourth priority: Other qualifying children from listed parishes
  • Fifth priority: All other qualifying children
  • Within each category: Free School Meals recipients, then siblings, then distance
  • Tie-breaker: Random allocation if children have equal priority

The Kent 11+ Test

The Kent 11+ Test consists of two multiple-choice papers, each lasting one hour with papers covering English, maths, and reasoning abilities. Children also complete a 40-minute writing task which may be used in borderline or appeal cases.

All images © Maidstone Grammar School.
All images © Maidstone Grammar School.

Children receive three standardised scores - one each for English, maths and reasoning - plus a total aggregate score. Age adjustments ensure younger children in the year group are not disadvantaged.

  • Paper 1: English and Mathematics (30 minutes each with 5-minute practice)
  • Paper 2: Verbal, Non-verbal and Spatial Reasoning (60 minutes total)
  • Writing task: 40 minutes (not scored but used for appeals)
  • Pass mark: Total score of 332+ with no section below 107
  • Test dates: September 2025 for secondary entry in 2026

Preparation Guidance

Effective preparation involves short, regular study sessions of 20-30 minutes for children aged 10-11 as recommended by child psychologists for regular study sessions. Children should master Key Stage 2 curriculum content before attempting practice papers.

The Kent 11+ Test includes reasoning sections not taught in primary schools, so families should allow time for children to become familiar with these question types. For structured preparation resources, families can explore practice papers and consider tutoring support.

  • Start preparation at least 12 months before the test date
  • Focus on Key Stage 2 English and Mathematics curriculum first
  • Introduce reasoning question types gradually
  • Use little and often approach with 20-30 minute sessions
  • Practice under timed conditions closer to test date
  • Ensure child gets adequate rest and maintains other interests

Exam Day Preparation

Children taking the Kent 11+ Test at Kent primary schools will usually sit the exam at their own school on Thursday 11th September 2025 (see key dates) according to the test schedule. Children at non-Kent schools typically take the test at designated venues on weekend dates.

If children require special arrangements due to disabilities or special educational needs, families must discuss this with their primary school SENCO before 1st July 2025 (see key dates) as requests cannot be accepted after this deadline.

  • Ensure child has a good night's sleep before test day
  • Provide a healthy breakfast and arrive punctually
  • Bring required identification documents if requested
  • Pack appropriate stationery (pencils, erasers) as instructed
  • Discuss test anxiety management strategies beforehand
  • Remind child to read questions carefully and manage time
  • Contact school if child becomes unwell on test day

Alternative School Options

Families should consider backup options as grammar school places are highly competitive. Passing the 11+ doesn't guarantee placement at preferred schools, as many grammar schools are oversubscribed with qualified children.

Kent offers several other grammar schools including Maidstone Grammar School for Girls, Invicta Grammar School, and Oakwood Park Grammar School. High schools in the area also provide excellent education for children who don't receive grammar school offers.

  • Other Kent grammar schools: Research multiple options
  • Local high schools: Visit and consider as genuine alternatives
  • Independent schools: Explore if suitable for family circumstances
  • Out-of-area options: Consider schools in neighbouring authorities
  • Sixth form options: Remember grammar schools admit girls post-16

Appeals Process

Families who are unsuccessful in securing a place have the right to appeal the decision. Appeals for children starting in September 2025 can be lodged between 3rd March and 31st March 2025 to guarantee consideration by 18th June 2025.

Appeals are heard by independent panels following Kent County Council procedures. Families should prepare evidence demonstrating why their child should be admitted despite the school being at capacity.

  • Submit appeals within specified timeframes after National Offer Day
  • Prepare written statement supporting the appeal case
  • Gather supporting evidence from teachers or professionals
  • Attend the appeals hearing in person
  • Contact the school information section for appeals guidance

Key Dates for 2025-2026 Entry

Families planning for September 2026 entry should note these critical deadlines. Missing registration or application deadlines can prevent children from being considered for places.

  • 2nd June 2025: Kent Test registration opens
  • 1st July 2025: Kent Test registration closes
  • 11th September 2025: Kent Test date (Kent primary schools)
  • 13th-14th September 2025: Kent Test date (non-Kent schools)
  • 16th October 2025: Test results sent to families
  • 31st October 2025: Secondary school application deadline
  • March 2026: National Offer Day (date to be confirmed)

For the most current information about admission requirements and procedures, families should contact the school information section or visit the school's official website regularly for updates.

Kent 11+ Test Information

In order to get into Maidstone 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 Kent Test is the entrance examination for Maidstone Grammar School, assessing prospective students' abilities in various subjects. The test, provided by GL Assessment, consists of two multiple-choice papers, each lasting one hour.

The first paper evaluates the candidate's proficiency in English and maths, with questions based on the Key Stage 2 national curriculum. The second paper focuses on verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, and spatial reasoning skills. These subjects are not typically taught in schools, so candidates may be less familiar with the question formats.

Successful performance in the Kent Test is essential for students seeking admission to Maidstone Grammar School. The examination aims to identify individuals with the necessary academic potential to thrive in the school's challenging educational environment.

Other Schools using Kent 11+ Test

As well as Maidstone Grammar School, several other schools also use Kent 11+ Test. These are:

Kent 11+ Test Marking Process

The reality of 11+ tests, selective education and academic institutions such as Maidstone 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.

Most 11+ tests are multiple-choice and marked electronically but still some remain that are marked by teachers or examiners.
Most 11+ tests are multiple-choice and marked electronically but still some remain that are marked by teachers or examiners.

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).

Stop worrying! Once the 11+ marking has started the admissions process is out of your control.
Stop worrying! Once the 11+ marking has started the admissions process is out of your control.

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 Maidstone Grammar School, it's a ballpark exam result figure for successful candidates.

Key Dates for the Maidstone Grammar School 11+ Entrance Tests

Here are all the important dates for the 11+ tests (to get into Maidstone Grammar School) as well as other relevant dates.

DateEventCalendar Link
02/06/2025Kent Test Registration OpensAdd Dates to Calendar
01/07/2025Kent Test Registration Closes
11/09/2025Kent Test Date For Children In Kent Primary Schools
Mid OctoberKent Test Results Sent To Parents
Late OctoberSecondary School Common Application Deadline
02/03/2026National School Offers Day

Although the utmost care has been taken to gather these dates, parents should treat them as a guide and check with Maidstone Grammar School as they may well change.

11+ Tutor for Maidstone 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 help ensure preparation work gets done!
11+ tutors help ensure preparation work gets done!

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 Maidstone Grammar School 11+ Tests

We have a range of private tutors who specialise in preparing children for the Maidstone 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 Maidstone Grammar School

Here are all available past 11+ papers for Maidstone 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 Maidstone Grammar School currently uses.

The exam board (or test supplier) that Maidstone 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 BoardSubject11+ Past Paper
GL AssessmentMixed

11+ Practice Papers for Maidstone 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 Maidstone 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 Maidstone 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 Maidstone Grammar School.

Exam BoardSubjectQuestion BookletAnswers
GL AssessmentEnglish
GL AssessmentMaths
GL AssessmentNon-Verbal Reasoning
GL AssessmentVerbal Reasoning
GL AssessmentMixed

11+ Practice Papers for Maidstone 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 Maidstone Grammar School.

Exam BoardSubjectAnswer SheetQuestion BookletAnswers
GL AssessmentEnglish
GL AssessmentMaths
GL AssessmentNon-Verbal Reasoning
GL AssessmentVerbal Reasoning
GL AssessmentMixed

11+ Practice Papers for Maidstone 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 BoardSubjectQuestion BookletAnswers
GL AssessmentMaths
GL AssessmentEnglish

11+ Practice Papers for Maidstone 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 Maidstone Grammar School.

Exam BoardSubjectQuestion BookletAnswers
GL AssessmentEnglish
GL AssessmentWriting
GL AssessmentMaths
GL AssessmentVerbal Reasoning

11+ Practice Papers for Maidstone 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 Maidstone Grammar School.

Exam BoardSubjectAnswer SheetQuestion BookletAnswers
GL AssessmentMaths
GL AssessmentEnglish
GL AssessmentVerbal Reasoning
GL AssessmentNon-Verbal Reasoning

These Free CEM 11+ Practice Papers were published by CGP and we thank them for granting us permission to distribute them. If Maidstone 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 BoardSubjectAnswer SheetQuestion BookletAnswers
CEMMaths
CEMVerbal Reasoning
CEMNon-Verbal Reasoning

11+ Practice Papers for Maidstone Grammar School by 11+ For You

These Free 11+ Practice Papers were published some time ago by "11+ For You".

Exam BoardSubjectQuestion BookletAnswers
GL AssessmentVerbal Reasoning

11+ Practice Papers for Maidstone Grammar School by Examberry

These Free 11+ Practice Papers were published some time ago by "Examberry".

Exam BoardSubjectAnswer SheetQuestion BookletAnswers
GL AssessmentNon-Verbal Reasoning

11+ Practice Papers for Maidstone Grammar School by Independent Junction

These Free 11+ Practice Papers were published some time ago by Independent Junction.

Exam BoardSubjectQuestion BookletAnswers
GL AssessmentVerbal Reasoning

11+ Practice Papers for Maidstone Grammar School by IPS

These Free 11+ Practice Papers were published some time ago by IPS (Internet Primary School Ltd).

Exam BoardSubjectAnswer SheetQuestion BookletAnswers
GL AssessmentVerbal Reasoning
GL AssessmentMaths

11+ Practice Papers for Maidstone Grammar School by Schofield & Sims

These 11+ practice papers were published by Schofield & Sims, a large UK educational publisher.

Exam BoardSubjectQuestion BookletAnswers
GL AssessmentVerbal Reasoning
GL AssessmentMaths

School Information

Below you will find further information about Maidstone Grammar School together with their admissions contact details.

Maidstone Grammar School is a boys-only grammar school.
Maidstone Grammar School is a boys-only grammar school.
Address
Maidstone Grammar School,
Barton Road,
Maidstone,
Kent
ME15 7BT
School Website
Telephone01622752101
Email Addressschool@mgs.kent.sch.uk
GenderBoys only
Total Year 7 Places205
Total Pupils (Girls/Boys)1425 (84 Girls / 1341 Boys)
Headteacher Mr Mark Tomkins

Maidstone Grammar School is a boys only school. It is also a local authority maintained school, meaning the local authority oversee the funding, admissions, and overall performance of the school.

In total 1,425 pupils attend Maidstone Grammar School and it's led by the Headteacher, Mr Mark Tomkins.

Maidstone Grammar School Location

Below you will find a map showing the school's location:

Ofsted Information

Maidstone Grammar School was last inspected by Ofsted on 15/01/2019 and the inspection only lasted one day. Ofsted published their report on 10/02/2019, declaring that the school was 'Good'. This information is summarised in the table below along with a link to the full report.

Maidstone Grammar School obtained <strong>Good</strong> in their last Ofsted inspection in 2019.
Maidstone Grammar School obtained Good in their last Ofsted inspection in 2019.

Last Ofsted Report Data

Date InspectedInspection Duration (Days)Reporting DateRatingFull Report
15/01/2019110/02/2019GoodFull Report

GCSE & A-Level Subjects

Below you will find a complete list of GCSE and A-Level subjects offered to pupils at Maidstone Grammar School for the 2022-23 academic year.

GCSE Subjects Offered
  • English Language (207 pupils)
  • Mathematics (207 pupils)
  • English Literature (206 pupils)
  • Religious Studies (197 pupils)
  • Geography (164 pupils)
  • Biology (114 pupils)
  • Chemistry (114 pupils)
  • Physics (114 pupils)
  • Science: Double Award (93 pupils)
  • Spanish (85 pupils)
  • Physical Education/Sports Studies (70 pupils)
  • Business Studies:Single (68 pupils)
  • History (54 pupils)
  • Art & Design (Fine Art) (51 pupils)
  • Computer Studies/Computing (50 pupils)
  • French (47 pupils)
  • Film Studies (40 pupils)
  • D&T Food Technology (38 pupils)
  • German (37 pupils)
  • Design & Technology (36 pupils)
  • Sociology (26 pupils)
  • Latin (23 pupils)
  • Classical Civilisation (19 pupils)
  • Drama & Theatre Studies (19 pupils)
  • Music (17 pupils)
A-Level Subjects Offered
  • Mathematics (73 pupils)
  • Biology (51 pupils)
  • Physics (51 pupils)
  • Psychology (48 pupils)
  • Economics (46 pupils)
  • Business Studies:Single (40 pupils)
  • Media/Film/Tv Studies (40 pupils)
  • English Literature (39 pupils)
  • History (34 pupils)
  • Chemistry (33 pupils)
  • Geography (33 pupils)
  • Physical Education / Sports Studies (29 pupils)
  • Computer Studies / Computing (20 pupils)
  • Government and Politics (20 pupils)
  • Design and Technology (Product Design) (17 pupils)
  • Sociology (17 pupils)
  • Art and Design (Fine Art) (14 pupils)
  • Film Studies (14 pupils)
  • Mathematics (Further) (13 pupils)
  • Classical Civilisation (8 pupils)
  • Logic / Philosophy (7 pupils)

GCSE & A-Level Performance

Below are the individual GCSE and A-Level performance tables for Maidstone 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)

SubjectTotal Pupils Grades Achieved
U123456789
Art & Design (Fine Art)51----29161464
Biology114---221926232220
Business Studies:Single68---4561810169
Chemistry114---152121222717
Classical Civilisation19---1-24273
Computer Studies/Computing50---2441071211
Design & Technology36---6481332-
English Language207--11026504355166
English Literature206-124143542503424
D&T Food Technology38---21121085-
French47--256951136
Geography164--212202246282410
German37---101255212
History54----2910131010
Latin23----132278
Mathematics207---2165158293417
Film Studies40--1443101044
Music17---22362-2
Physics1142---31326232423
Religious Studies197--116152940402432
Sociology26---3429341
Spanish854--14151813894
Drama & Theatre Studies19----5842--
Physical Education/Sports Studies70---74151512134
Science: Double Award93----------

A-Level Results Information (2022-23)

SubjectTotal Pupils Grades Achieved
UEDCBAA*
Art and Design (Fine Art)14----374
Biology51--12814125
Business Studies:Single40--815746
Chemistry33-2361165
Classical Civilisation8----331
Computer Studies / Computing20--2594-
Design and Technology (Product Design)17-25451-
Economics46-241014106
English Literature39--292242
Film Studies14---3821
Geography33--581271
Government and Politics20---3791
History34---118123
Logic / Philosophy7--1123-
Mathematics73-3212192017
Mathematics (Further)13---1561
Media/Film/Tv Studies40--1122061
Physical Education / Sports Studies29-571241-
Physics51-67812132
Psychology48-71313105-
Sociology17--2573-

FAQ

Is Maidstone Grammar School hard to get into?

Yes, Maidstone 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 Maidstone Grammar School a private school?

No, Maidstone Grammar School is one of the few remaining academically selective, state-funded grammar schools left in England.

Is Maidstone Grammar School free?

Yes, Maidstone Grammar School is free, there are no school fees. Thus, sending your child to Maidstone Grammar School won't cost you any money.

How do I get my child into Maidstone Grammar School?

You need to apply to take the school's 11+ test. Contact Maidstone 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.

Is Maidstone Grammar School a boys-only school?

Yes, Maidstone Grammar School is a boys-only school.

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