Kendrick does not publish its 11+ pass mark; the working assumption is that a place needs a score in roughly the top tenth of candidates. That figure is an estimate, not a published threshold, and it moves with each cohort. Prepare across all four sections, use timed papers, and treat the school's own admissions policy for your entry year as the authority on scores and criteria.

For context: 83.6% of families in England were offered their first-preference secondary school for September 2026 entry. — DfE, School applications and offers, 2026

Kendrick Grammar School, nestled in the heart of Reading, Berkshire, stands as a beacon of excellence in girls' education. Known for its rigorous academic standards, gaining admission into this prestigious institution is a competitive endeavor, primarily determined through the 11+ Secondary Transfer Test (STT). This blog post aims to shed light on the essential aspects of the Kendrick Grammar School 11+ exam, including insights into the elusive pass marks and target scores.

What Is the 11+ Secondary Transfer Test?

The 11+ STT is a comprehensive assessment designed to evaluate a wide range of academic abilities. Let's delve into the components and significance of achieving high scores in this challenging exam.

What is the exam structure?

- Maths: Involves a series of problems testing numerical understanding and application.

- English: Assesses comprehension, vocabulary, and grammar skills.

- Verbal Reasoning: Focuses on logical thinking, pattern recognition, and problem-solving.

- Non-Verbal Reasoning: Tests the ability to understand and analyze visual information.

Why Do High Scores Matter?

Achieving high scores in the 11+ STT is crucial as it is the primary criterion for admission. Although exact pass marks are not publicly disclosed, it is widely recognized that:

- Students should aim to be in the top 10% of test takers.

- High performance across all sections is essential to be considered for admission.

- Despite high scores, admission is not guaranteed as other factors like school reports and interviews also play a role.

What are preparation strategies?

To excel in the 11+ STT, a well-rounded preparation strategy is key. Here are some effective tips to enhance your study sessions and maintain a positive outlook throughout the preparation period.

What are study tips?

- Practice with past papers: Familiarize yourself with the exam format and question types.

- Focus on All Sections: Ensure balanced preparation across all test areas.

- Seek Guidance: Consider tutoring or joining study groups for structured learning.

How Do You Maintain Motivation?

- Set Clear Goals: Understand what you need to achieve and set mini-goals to keep track.

- Stay Positive: Keep a healthy mindset and confidence in your abilities.

- Take Breaks: Avoid burnout by balancing study sessions with leisure activities.

What should you do next?

While the exact pass marks for the Kendrick Grammar School 11+ exam remain undisclosed, aiming for top-tier performance is imperative. Through diligent preparation and a positive approach, aspiring students can enhance their chances of success in this challenging test and potentially secure a place at one of the most prestigious schools in Reading. Remember, persistence and thorough preparation are your best tools for turning the dream of attending Kendrick Grammar School into reality.

What else is worth reading?

What are the honest limits of any grade or percentage figure?

Grade boundaries are set for each exam series, for each board and tier, after marking is complete. Every percentage and boundary described here is a historical example, not a promise: a 2025 boundary tells you about 2025. For the series you are actually sitting, check JCQ and your own board.

Every school publishes its own rule, and the national position is short:

“All schools have admission criteria to decide which children get places.” — gov.uk, School admissions

Where can you check this at source?

There is no national 11+ exam. Each grammar school or local authority sets its own test, dates and admissions criteria, and publishes them in an admissions policy that changes year to year. Always confirm with the school directly, then check the national rules: