Entrance Examinations Advice

By the time your child is in Year 5 you will know about the 11+ process. The children at The Mead School have experienced an understanding of the tests required; English, Maths, Non-verbal Reasoning and Verbal Reasoning.

It can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation and guidance, it becomes much more manageable. At our school, we are known for supporting families through every stage and helping children secure places at schools that are the right fit for them.

Research and Register

Tour all the schools yourself in summer term Year 4 if possible

  • Create a shortlist based on your child’s strengths, interests and practical considerations, such as travel
  • Come in to discuss with our Head of Transition at the beginning of the Autumn term of Year 5
  • Revisit the schools that you feel are appropriate with your child in Year 5
  • Check each school’s specific admissions criteria and requirements
  • Register your child for the 11+ (Kent Test) in June

We support parents with comprehensive guidance throughout this stage, including understanding the differences between schools and their expectations.

Summer Holidays:

  • Your child will already be familiar with the style of entrance assessment. They will have a strong academic benchmark from their learning at The Mead and the critical thinking style required. Help your child to practise the style of entry assessment.
  • There are official familiarisation materials such as:
  • Focus on building confidence rather than pressure – short, timed, regular practice works best.

August:

Year 6 acclimatation sessions with timed exam preparation .

September: Kent Test & Applications

  • The Kent Test is sat at school
  • Ensure all independent school applications are submitted
  • Be aware that scholarship deadlines may be earlier and often have additional requirements
  • Start preparing for interviews (we offer interview practice in school)- children may be asked about:
  • Current/global affairs
  • Hobbies and interests
  • General thinking skills and conversation

October: Results

  • Kent Test results are released. There are usually around 10 days from results day to make the list on the SCAF form so go back around the schools if needed. They all usually hold October Open Mornings for Year 6.

November: ISEB Pre-Tests and Independent Schools Entrance Exams begin

  • Children applying to independent schools will sit the ISEB pre-tests, usually at The Mead or at their chosen school. These are taken in a familiar environment, which helps reduce stress.

March: Offers and Allocations

  • National Offer Day for state secondary schools takes place in early March.
  • Around this time, most independent schools will have also confirmed offers and scholarships results.

Additional Tips (often overlooked)

  • Visit schools: Open days and tours are invaluable.
  • Keep perspective: The “best” school is the one where your child will thrive, not just the most selective.
  • Wellbeing matters: Balance preparation with downtime. Let them go outside. Plenty of Water. Timetabled break and work time. On the day we protect their wellbeing by sharing breakfast together on the day of the test, allowing them to experience the exam hall the day before so they know what to expect, breaktime and lunchtimes are at normals times of the day to share with their friends.
  • Stay organised: Keep track of deadlines, logins and application details
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