Highsted Grammar School – 11+ Parent’s Guide

Highsted Grammar School – 11+ Parent’s Guide

Essential Details

  • Address: Highsted Grammar School, Highsted Road, Sittingbourne, Kent, ME10 4PT
  • Number of pupils: 950+
  • Admissions contact: admissions@highsted.kent.sch.uk
  • Number of places in Year 7: 120
  • 11+ exam: Kent Test (11+ selection test)
  • Catchment area: Priority given to Kent residents

Mark Your Calendar

See Highsted Grammar School’s website for latest information and key dates.

Exploring Highsted Grammar School: A Parent’s Guide

Highsted Grammar School, founded in 1904 as Sittingbourne County School for Girls, is a highly selective girls’ grammar school with academy status. Renowned for its academic excellence, the school was rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted in its most recent inspection and consistently ranks among Kent’s top-performing schools.

The school offers a broad, balanced curriculum with particular strengths in STEM subjects, modern languages and performing arts. Highsted’s unique ‘Thinking Skills’ program develops critical analysis and independent learning. The school boasts impressive facilities including a state-of-the-art science block, dedicated music school and extensive sports complex.

With a strong house system and emphasis on personal development, Highsted nurtures confident, articulate young women. Alumni include leading figures in medicine, law and the arts. The school’s partnership program with local businesses provides exceptional career guidance and work experience opportunities.

Navigating the Application process for Highsted Grammar School

  1. Register for the Kent Test: All applicants must take the Kent Test (11+) – registration opens in June and closes in July
  2. Understand the Admissions Criteria: Places are allocated based on Kent Test scores, with priority given to girls living in Kent
  3. Attend Open Events: Highsted hosts open mornings in June and September – booking essential
  4. Submit Supplementary Information Form: Required in addition to the Kent Local Authority application
  5. Application Deadline: Kent CC application must be submitted by 31 October
  6. Test Results: Released in mid-October to inform school choices
  7. Offer Day: National offer day is 1 March

What to Expect on Secondary Transfer Test at Highsted Grammar School

The Kent Test consists of:

  • English & Maths Paper: 1-hour combined paper testing comprehension, grammar and mathematical reasoning
  • Verbal Reasoning Paper: 1-hour paper assessing vocabulary, logic and verbal aptitude
  • Creative Writing Task: Marked only in borderline cases
  • Scoring: Standardised scores with a total possible of 423 (141 per paper)
  • Pass Mark: Typically around 332 total, with no single score below 107

Tailored Preparation for Success

Want to give your child a roadmap to success in the Secondary Transfer Test? You can with Learoni. We provide everything you need to prepare in one comprehensive package. Forget about hiring a tutor to secure a spot at your top-choice grammar school. With Learoni, you’ll receive a tailored plan for your child and ongoing support throughout their enjoyable revision journey.

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Expert Tips for Secondary Transfer Test Preparation

  1. Master Multiple-Choice Technique: Practice eliminating incorrect options quickly
  2. Develop Speed and Accuracy: The Kent Test is particularly time-pressured
  3. Focus on Verbal Reasoning: This is often the most challenging section for students
  4. Use Kent-Specific Materials: The test has unique question styles
  5. Prepare for Creative Writing: Although not always marked, it can be decisive for borderline cases
  6. Simulate Test Conditions: Practice full-length mock tests with timed sections

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