What is the Medway test?
11 Plus, 13 Plus, Other School Entrance, University Admissions, English & Maths
October 30th, 2024
The transition from primary to secondary education is important for every child, but the selective element which comes with a grammar school application can make it more complicated. The Medway Test is an 11+ examination which is designed to assess aptitude for Grammar Schools in the Medway area. This guide explains the test, how to prepare and the key differences with the Kent Test.
What is the Medway Test?
The Medway Test is an 11+ examination used in Medway, which is a geographical area of Kent. The test is designed to assess whether a child is suitable or unsuitable for a place at a selective grammar school, but passing it does not guarantee a grammar school place. The Medway Test is taken by those in Year 6, the final year of primary school in England. The exam has three papers: Reasoning, Maths and English.
History of the Medway Test
The Medway Test comes from a long history of grammar school testing in England. Local authorities have developed their own versions of the 11+ test as they have expanded and been given their own local government powers. Medway is one of the areas in England which kept grammar schools as part of their educational provision, where other local authorities decided to change them to non-selective schools.
Medway Test and Kent Test: What’s the Difference?
There are clear differences between the Medway Test and the Kent Test. The Medway Test has three compulsory papers whereas the Kent Test only has two, with an extra writing paper which is only considered if the mark is borderline. Both tests are written specifically for the different councils: Kent and Medway and therefore have different content. There is no pass mark for the Medway test whereas there is a published pass mark every year for the Kent Test.
Understanding the 11+ Examination
The 11+ examination is taken in many different areas of England and is designed to test a child’s suitability for grammar school. It is taken on one day and requires careful preparation, sometimes up to a year before the test date. Each local authority will publish information about their specific 11+ examination alongside registration dates and residency requirements. It is important to take careful note of these dates and this information to check you are eligible to sit the test.
How Can I Help My Child with the Medway Test?
There are preparation materials available on the GL Assessment website, and these can be used by parents to help with preparation. An experienced tutor will be able to assess your child and establish what level of preparation is needed. Additionally, liaising with your child’s school will help parents to understand whether undertaking the Medway Test is a realistic prospect for them. Good luck with your preparation for the Medway Test.
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