Maidstone Grammar School for Girls 11 plus: a parents' guide for 2022

Founded in 1888, Maidstone Grammar School for Girls (or MGGS) has long held a special place in its local community in Kent. Rated outstanding by Ofsted in 2009, it describes itself as ‘a forward-thinking community with a tradition of excellence’ and prides itself in producing ‘young adults of character’ who can thrive in today’s society. It makes use of the house system to cultivate friendships, activities and a sense of spirit within its walls.

11 plus information for Maidstone Grammar School for Girls

• Address: Maidstone Grammar School for Girls, Buckland Road, Maidstone, Kent, ME16 0SF

• County: Kent

• Admissions info: [email protected], 01622 752 103

• School type: girls’ grammar school

• Number of pupils: 1,222

• Number of places in Year 7: 180

• Open day date: 25th - 27th April, 4th - 5th July

• Exam date: 8th September 2022 (for children in Kent primary schools) and 10th September 2022 (other children outside of Kent)

• Exam board type: Kent Test (GL)

Maidstone Grammar School for Girls term dates

The term dates for Maidstone Grammar School for Girls 2022-23 are:

• Autumn term: 1st September - 16th December

• Half term: 24th - 28th October

• Spring term: 3rd January - 31st March

• Half term: 13th - 17th February

• Summer term: 17th April - 21st July

• Half term: 29th May - 2nd June

How and when to apply to Maidstone Grammar School for Girls

Maidstone Grammar School for Girls selects its intake from applicants who have passed the Kent 11 plus test. Children register for the Kent Test in Year 5 then, after sitting the exam in September of Year 6 and receiving their results in October, they submit the Kent Secondary Common Application form, specifying their school preferences.

Registration for the Kent Test is normally open between the 1st of June the 1st of July. More details are available on the Kent County Council website.

Maidstone Grammar School for Girls 11 plus admissions process

Like many grammar schools, Maidstone Grammar School for Girls uses a transfer examination - the Kent 11 Plus. When it is oversubscribed the following criteria are used:

• Looked after and previously looked after girls

• Girls receiving Pupil Premium

• Governor places

• Siblings of students who will attend at the same time

• Distance from home to school

The Kent Test 11 plus exam format and content

The Kent Test is used by most academically selective schools in the county and it includes questions on English, maths and reasoning.

Girls applying to MGGS take three exams:

• English and Maths: One hour. 5-minute practise exercise followed by a 25-minute multiple-choice test for each subject.

• Reasoning: One hour including practice sections and multiple-choice questions which cover verbal and non-verbal reasoning.

• Writing: 40 minutes including 10 minutes planning time.

The writing exercise is not marked but may be used by a local headteacher panel in borderline cases where pupils have missed the pass mark.

How to prepare your child for the Kent 11 plus

If your daughter will be sitting the Kent 11 plus we would recommend that you begin your preparations at least a year in advance. English, maths and reasoning will all need a high level of attention, and while time should also be spent on writing, it’s important to bear in mind that that particular exam will only be used in borderline cases.

Kent County Council have published a familiarisation paper and further subject-specific materials which can be found on their website.

How Atom can help your child prepare for the Maidstone Grammar School 11 plus

Atom Nucleus supports 11 plus preparation by combining cutting-edge technology with the expertise of experienced teachers. We’ve built over 90,000 practice questions, live prep courses, pre-recorded video tutorials and unlimited mock tests in the style and format of the Kent 11 plus exam.

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Start your 5-day free trial of Nucleus today to help your daughter feel fully prepared for success in the Maidstone Grammar School for Girls 11 plus exam.

We know how crucial this time is, so our team is on hand to support you and your family every step of the way. You can book a call with one of our Education Experts to ask any questions you may have about the Kent Test or preparing for Maidstone Grammar School for Girls:

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