Kendrick's Secondary Transfer Test has four parts - maths, English, verbal reasoning and non-verbal reasoning - and preparation is usually spread wrongly across them. Families over-prepare maths and English; the reasoning papers gain the most from format familiarity and receive the least practice. Work through past papers under the clock and review errors rather than adding more papers.

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, a prestigious girls' grammar school in Reading, Berkshire, selects students based on the 11+ Secondary Transfer Test (STT). This blog post aims to equip prospective students and their parents with crucial information and strategies to excel in this competitive exam.

What Is the Exam Format?

Before diving into preparation, it’s critical to grasp the structure of the Kendrick Grammar School 11+ STT. This understanding will streamline your study focus and enhance your performance.

What is maths?

- Focus on problem-solving and arithmetic skills.

What is English?

- Emphasis on comprehension and creative writing abilities.

What is verbal reasoning?

- Tests logical thinking and pattern recognition.

What is non-verbal reasoning?

- Assesses spatial awareness and visual problem-solving.

What are effective preparation strategies?

A structured approach to preparation can significantly boost your confidence and ability to tackle the exam effectively.

How do you practice with past papers?

- Familiarize with question types: Understanding what kinds of questions appear on the test.

- Improve time management: Learning to allocate time efficiently across different sections.

How do you attend 11+ preparation courses?

- Targeted instruction: Courses tailored to the specifics of the STT.

- Peer interaction: Opportunity to engage and learn with other prospective students.

How do you develop good study habits?

- Regular study schedule: Consistency is key in preparation.

- Balanced breaks: To maintain mental freshness and avoid burnout.

- Focus on weak areas: Prioritize topics that need more attention.

How Do You Stay Motivated?

Preparing for the Kendrick Grammar School 11+ STT can be daunting, but maintaining a positive and motivated mindset is crucial. Set small, achievable goals to keep spirits high and progress visible.

What should you do next?

Preparing for the Kendrick Grammar School Secondary Transfer Test demands a blend of understanding, practice, and perseverance. By mastering the exam format, engaging with past papers, participating in preparatory courses, cultivating effective study habits, and staying motivated, candidates can enhance their chances of success and secure a place at this esteemed institution.

What else is worth reading?

What can this guide not tell you about a particular school?

There is no national 11+ exam. Each school or local authority sets its own test, dates and admissions criteria, and republishes them every year, so the detail here can go out of date within a cycle. Confirm against the school’s own admissions policy and gov.uk school admissions before you rely on any date.

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: