Medway 11+ Preparation: Your Guide to Grammar Schools

The Medway 11+ is an examination taken by Year 6 pupils who wish to apply for a place at a grammar school in the Medway area. These schools include Rainham Mark Grammar School, Chatham Grammar, Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School (for boys), and Fort Pitt Grammar School (for girls).

Understanding the structure of the Medway 11+ and preparing effectively can significantly support your child's application. This guide provides an overview of the exam and practical advice for preparation.

Medway 11+ at a glance

The Medway 11+ is usually taken in September when children are in Year 6 of primary school.
The examination consists of three separate papers: one in English, one in Mathematics, and one in Reasoning.
Each paper is approximately 50 minutes long, with additional time for instructions and practice questions.
The English paper assesses comprehension, vocabulary, and literary skills, often with multiple-choice questions.
The Reasoning paper covers verbal reasoning and non-verbal reasoning, testing problem-solving and logical thinking.

Understanding the Medway 11+ Structure

The Medway 11+ comprises three distinct tests: English, Mathematics, and Reasoning. These papers are designed to assess different aptitudes and skills deemed important for grammar school education. It's crucial to familiarise your child with the format and types of questions they will encounter.

The English paper often includes sections on reading comprehension, spelling, punctuation, and grammar. The Mathematics paper covers topics from the Key Stage 2 national curriculum, ranging from arithmetic to problem-solving. The Reasoning paper is typically split into Verbal Reasoning (word-based puzzles) and Non-Verbal Reasoning (shape, pattern, and spatial puzzles).

Key Preparation Strategies

Effective preparation for the Medway 11+ involves consistent effort over an extended period, rather than last-minute cramming. Start by identifying your child's strengths and weaknesses across the three subject areas. This will help you focus your efforts where they are most needed.

Consistent Practice: Regular short bursts of practice are often more effective than infrequent long sessions.
Timings: Practice answering questions under timed conditions to help your child manage their time effectively during the actual exam.
Variety of Resources: Utilize practice papers, textbooks, and online resources that are specific to the 11+ style.
Feedback: Review incorrect answers to understand the mistakes and learn from them.

Supporting Your Child's Well-being

Beyond academic preparation, it is equally important to support your child’s emotional well-being throughout the 11+ process. The exam can be a source of stress, and a positive mindset is crucial for performance. Ensure your child maintains a balanced routine that includes relaxation, hobbies, and adequate sleep.

Encourage them, celebrate small achievements, and reassure them that their effort is what truly matters, regardless of the outcome. Create a calm and supportive home environment where they feel comfortable discussing any concerns they may have about the exam.

Try Medway 11+ practice questions

Question 1

Which word is the odd one out?

Answer: Carrot. Apple, Banana, and Orange are all fruits. Carrot is a vegetable.

Question 2

If a train travels at 60 miles per hour, how far will it travel in 2 hours and 30 minutes?

Answer: 150 miles. 2 hours at 60 mph is 120 miles. 30 minutes (half an hour) at 60 mph is 30 miles. Total is 120 + 30 = 150 miles.

Question 3

Choose the word that means the opposite of 'generous'.

Answer: Selfish. Generous means giving freely. Selfish means concerned excessively or exclusively with oneself. Therefore, 'selfish' is the opposite.

Question 4

Which of the following describes the shape you would get if you unfolded a cube?

Answer: A net. A 'net' is a 2D shape that can be folded to form a 3D shape, such as a cube.

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Frequently asked questions

When do children take the Medway 11+ test?

Children typically take the Medway 11+ test in September, at the beginning of Year 6 in primary school.

What subjects are included in the Medway 11+?

The Medway 11+ consists of three papers: English, Mathematics, and Reasoning (which includes Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning).

How can I register my child for the Medway 11+?

Registration for the Medway 11+ is usually handled by the Medway Council and opens in May, closing in June of the year prior to secondary school entry. Specific dates are published annually on the Medway Council website.

What is a 'grammar school standard' score in Medway?

To be considered for a grammar school place in Medway, children must achieve a total score that meets or exceeds the 'grammar school standard'. This standard varies slightly each year based on the performance of the cohort, but approximate qualifying scores are published by Medway Council.