The Kent Test: A Complete Guide for Parents

The Kent Test is one of the most well-known 11 Plus exams in England, and each year thousands of children sit it in hopes of securing a place at a Kent grammar school. For parents, understanding how the process works, what the test includes, and how best to support their child can feel daunting.

This guide provides a clear breakdown of everything you need to know, along with answers to common questions parents often ask.

What is the Kent Test?

The Kent Test is the selective entrance exam for grammar schools in Kent. It is taken by children in Year 6, usually in September, and is designed to measure a child’s academic potential rather than just what they have already learnt at school.

Passing the test gives your child eligibility to apply for one of Kent’s grammar schools through the normal secondary school application process.

Who Can Take the Kent Test?

Any child in Year 6, whether attending a Kent primary school or living outside the county, can apply to take the test. Families from nearby areas such as London or Sussex often enter their children, particularly if they are considering moving closer to a Kent grammar school.

Parents must register their child during the application window in June and July.

What Subjects are Covered?

The Kent Test is made up of two main multiple-choice papers:

• Reasoning: This includes verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, and spatial reasoning. These sections assess problem-solving, logic, and pattern recognition skills.
• English and Maths: This paper covers comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, and mathematics problems aligned with the Key Stage 2 curriculum.

There is also a short writing task, which is not marked for the overall score but may be considered in borderline cases during school appeals.

How is the Kent Test Scored?

Each section is age-standardised to ensure fairness between children of different birth months. Scores from reasoning, English, and maths are combined to give a total score.

To be deemed grammar school eligible, a child must reach the overall pass mark as well as the minimum scores in individual papers. The pass threshold is set each year, but it typically requires a balanced performance across subjects.

When are the Results Released?

Results are usually available in October, before the deadline for secondary school applications. Parents receive their child’s scores online or by letter, allowing them to make informed choices when submitting the Common Application Form (CAF).

How Do Grammar Schools Use the Results?

Passing the Kent Test makes a child eligible to apply for grammar schools, but it does not guarantee a place. Each school applies its own admissions criteria, which may include catchment area, distance from school, or sibling priority. Some schools may also require supplementary forms or have higher score cut-offs if they are oversubscribed.

How Can Parents Help Their Child Prepare?

• Familiarisation papers: Practice materials are available from Kent County Council and publishers of 11 Plus resources.
• Balanced preparation: Encourage regular practice in reasoning skills, reading comprehension, and maths problem-solving.
• Mock exams: Sitting timed mock tests helps children adjust to exam conditions.
• Well-being: Ensure preparation does not become stressful. Adequate rest, encouragement, and breaks are just as important as study.

What Happens If My Child Does Not Pass?

If your child does not meet the pass mark, you can still apply for grammar schools through the appeals process. Appeals panels may consider factors such as extenuating circumstances, school reports, or the writing task.

Alternatively, many excellent non-selective secondary schools are available in Kent, and they may be a better fit for some children.

Final Thoughts

The Kent Test plays an important role in grammar school admissions, but it is only one step in your child’s educational journey. Whether your child secures a grammar school place or not, the process can highlight their strengths and give them valuable experience of formal testing.

As a parent, your support, encouragement, and perspective will help ensure your child feels confident and positive throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions