Wilmington Grammar School for Boys (11+) 11 Plus Exam - 2026 Key Information

​Wilmington Grammar School for Boys is a leading selective grammar school for boys based in Dartford, Kent. Established in 1950, it provides an inspiring education to over 1,000 students aged 11 to 18, covering Key Stage 3 (KS3) and sixth form (6th Form).

Frequently recognised amongst the best grammar schools in the UK, WGSB is famous for its engineering specialism and strong student support. Its ofsted rating underscores the academy's dedication to academic and personal excellence.

WGSB prioritises digital fluency alongside pastoral excellence. Students further benefit from the collaborative WG6 Sixth Form, ensuring a holistic and future-ready academic journey

In this guide, I apply 6+ years of education consultancy to help parents navigate Wilmington Grammar School for Boys 2026 11 plus (11+) Exam admissions with confidence.

​School Details

• Type of School: Grammar / Academy
• Boarding Type: No Boarding
• Gender Type: Boys (Co-educational Sixth Form)
• Religion: None
• Age Range: 11-18
• Number of Pupils (Total): 1060+
• Wilmington Grammar School for Boys GCSE Results (2025): 37.9% achieved Grades 7-9
• Wilmington Grammar School for Boys A-Level Results (2025): 48.8% achieved Grades A*-B

Year 7 Admissions Details

• Year 7 Admissions Policy: Selective
• Number of Places in Year 7 (PAN): 180
• Exam Board: GL Assessment
• Number of Stages: 1
• School Catchment Area: Yes. (See Below for more details)
• Sibling Policy: Yes. (See Below for more details)
• Pass Mark: Aim for 90%

​Navigating the Wilmington Grammar School for Boys open day schedule and the Kent Test timeline demands meticulous organization. I have compiled the definitive calendar of Wilmington Grammar School for Boys 11 plus exam dates below to guide you. This schedule includes the crucial 11+ Exam date, registration deadlines, and 11 plus exam dates for results, ensuring you are fully prepared for the upcoming academic year.

Admission to Wilmington Grammar School for Boys (WGSB) follows the coordinated admissions scheme operated by Kent County Council. As one of the sought-after grammar schools in Kent, selection is based on the 11+ Exam.

How to Register for 11+ Exam

Parents typically must register their son for the Kent Test (11+) during the summer term of Year 5.

• The 11 plus exam registration window opens specifically on the Kent County Council website in early June 2025.
• Registration closes strictly in early July 2025; late registrations are rarely accepted.
• Testing takes place in September 2025, covering reasoning, English, and mathematics.
• Full details are outlined in the Wilmington Grammar School for Boys Admissions Policy.

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Submitting the Common Application Form (SCAF)

Following the test, you must apply for a school place through your home Local Authority.

• The 11 plus exam process concludes with the submission of the Secondary Common Application Form (SCAF).
• London residents should apply via the Pan London eAdmissions System.
• Kent residents must use the Kent Local Authority Admissions Portal.
• You must list WGSB as a preference on this form by the national deadline of 31 October 2025.

The School catchment area for WGSB is defined by distance rather than a fixed map of specific postcodes. Admissions are strictly prioritised based on the proximity of the child’s permanent residence to the school.

As stated in the Wilmington Grammar School for Boys Admissions Policy, the school operates a distinct Governor’s Priority. This criterion reserves 10% of places for students who score highest on the 11 plus test and live within a 1.5-mile radius.

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WGSB Catchment Area Criteria

• Distance Measurement: Distance is measured in a direct "as the crow flies" line from the child’s permanent residence.
• Governor’s Places: Priority is given to high scorers residing within 1.5 miles of the school.
• General Allocation: Remaining places are allocated based on nearness, extending the 11+ exam catchment zone outwards.

For the standard Wilmington Grammar School for Boys Catchment Area, the final allocation distance fluctuates annually. This distance depends entirely on the number of applicants and their location relative to the school.

​According to the National School Census, competition remains fierce with approximately six students applying for every single place at WGSB. This high volume of candidates sitting the eleven plus exam confirms that this school is a premier choice for local families.

Source: National School Census.

Recent data highlights a challenging landscape, recording a significant 108% oversubscription rate in 2025. As stated in the Wilmington Grammar School for Boys Admissions Policy, the school generally admits a Pupil Admissions Number (PAN) of 180 boys.

How hard is it to get into Wilmington Grammar School for Boys?

Parents often ask me, “Is Wilmington Grammar School for Boys hard to get into?” given the intense competition ratios. Based on my experience with WGSB admissions, I assure you that success is manageable with a solid, targeted strategy.

As stated in the Wilmington Grammar School for Boys Admissions Policy, applicants must sit the Kent Test. The Wilmington Grammar School for Boys 11 Plus Test assesses whether boys are suitable for a grammar school education.

The exam is conducted in a single day. Understanding what is in the 11 Plus exam is vital for preparation.

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Important Note for Parents - OMR Sheet Guidance

The kent test 2025 uses separate answer sheets which are marked by an automated optical reader. Ensure your son marks the box with a clear, heavy horizontal line to guarantee the machine registers the answer correctly.

Parent’s Top 4 Queries

Does the school set its own exam? 

No, admission is based entirely on the Kent Test (PESE), managed by Kent County Council.

Is the writing task marked? 

The writing exercise is not scored initially but is critical for Headteacher Assessment in borderline cases.

What exam board does WGSB follow?

GL Assessment Kent Grammar Schools (Kent PESE)

How long is the 11+ Exam for WGSB?

The test day is approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes long.

WGSB uses the Kent Test to determine admission eligibility. To be considered for a place, your son must achieve the standard pass mark set annually by Kent County Council.

Recent Kent Test Thresholds

• 2025 Entry: Aggregate score of 332+ (minimum 108 in each paper).
• 2024 Entry: Aggregate score of 332+ (minimum 107 in each paper).

Meeting this threshold makes a student eligible, though places are allocated according to the Wilmington Grammar School for Boys Admissions Policy. Consistent practice is vital to secure strong 11 plus exam results.

​​Wilmington Grammar School for Boys is a fantastic choice for STEM-focused students in Kent. However, with the catchment area shrinking annually, relying on a single school is risky. Many high-achieving boys need a robust backup plan.

I have advised Kent parents for over 18 years. I frequently see families pin their hopes on Wilmington, only to miss out due to distance criteria. I always recommend a portfolio of 3 Grammar options and 2 Private options.

Top 5 Alternative Grammar and Independent Schools

When families target WGSB, they typically look at Dartford Grammar for high achievers and Eltham College for private backups. Here is how the top alternatives compare:

Why these schools are the top alternatives to Wilmington Grammar School for Boys

• Dartford Grammar School: This is the premier academic alternative. It requires a significantly higher score on the Kent Test but offers the prestigious IB curriculum. It is ideal for boys performing in the top 5% nationally.
• Gravesend Grammar School: A solid parallel choice for boys in the North Kent area. It operates under the same Kent Test system, meaning no extra exams are required. The culture is similar to Wilmington, focusing on traditional boys' education.
• Beths Grammar School: Located in nearby Bexley, Beths is famous for its technology focus, similar to Wilmington's engineering ethos. However, it requires sitting the Bexley Selection Test, which is a separate exam date.
• Eltham College: As a high-performing independent school, Eltham offers smaller class sizes and exceptional pastoral care. It is a vital backup for families who want to ensure a place if the Grammar lottery fails.
• Sevenoaks School: For families seeking the absolute "Gold Standard," Sevenoaks is world-renowned. While fees are high, the academic outcomes and facilities are unmatched. It serves as an ambitious "reach" school for bright Wilmington applicants.

​The Wilmington Grammar School for Boys uses the Kent Test for its Year 7 admissions process. This exam is managed by the Kent Consortium and administered by GL Assessment. It assesses candidates on Maths, English, and Reasoning skills.

Analysis of 11+ Exam Maths Topics

Our analysis of 11+ maths papers shows a distinct topic weighting for this entrance exam. The Kent grammar school test places significant emphasis on Number skills and Geometry. These two areas account for more than half of the expected questions.

To master these topics, try our topic-wise questions which are used by over 20,000 students. This includes a complete planner for 11+ practice papers and formula sheets.

Analysis of 11+ Exam English Topics

Based on our review of 11 plus English papers, Reading Comprehension and Vocabulary are critical. The exam typically requires students to answer multiple-choice questions based on a passage. Proficiency in grammar and punctuation is also essential for a high score.

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Analysis of 11+ Exam Verbal Reasoning Topics

The 11 plus verbal reasoning section tests a student's ability to think critically with words. Our analysis shows that Maths-based problems and Missing Words are primary focus areas. These topics collectively account for approximately 55% of the total marks.

Elevate your child's score with our comprehensive Verbal Reasoning resources. This includes detailed answer hints and worksheets covering key topics like Codes and Word Meanings.

Analysis of 11+ Exam Non-Verbal Reasoning Topics

For non verbal reasoning 11 plus, the exam focuses on identifying patterns and relationships in shapes. Odd One Out, Analogies, and Spatial Reasoning are all critical focus areas. Each section carries significant weight, so broad practice is necessary.

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Which are the Best 11+ Practice Papers for Wilmington Grammar School for Boys?

Our targeted Kent test practice papers help students familiarise themselves with the exam pattern well in advance. We recommend specific resources designed for the Kent Consortium to ensure your child is ready for the Kent Test 2025.

The school also includes an 11+ creative writing exercise, which is marked in borderline cases. It is vital to prepare for this element to ensure a complete application profile.

Wilmington Grammar School for Boys is highly competitive, so rigorous preparation is essential for success. Sitting a mock test 11 plus helps students familiarise themselves with the exam format and identify weak areas. These 11 plus mock tests refine speed, ensuring your son is ready for WGSB.

As the school uses the GL Assessment board, we recommend these resources:

You can access our 11 plus mock test online free to evaluate your child's current level. Securing an 11 plus mock test Kent ensures students handle the pressure of this region's format. Thorough practice is key for the Wilmington Grammar School for Boys 11 plus mock exam.

• Autumn Half Term 1: 2^nd September 2025 to 17^th October 2025
• Autumn Half Term 2: 30^th October 2025 to 19^th December 2025
• Spring Half Term 1: 5^th January 2026 to 13^th February 2026
• Spring Half Term 2: 24^th February 2026 to 2^nd April 2026
• Summer Half Term 1: 20^th April 2026 to 22^nd May 2026
• Summer Half Term 2: 1^st June 2026 to 21^st July 2026

This information has been sourced from Get Information about Schools and Wilmington Grammar School for Boys Official Website.