Holcombe Grammar School
📍 Chatham, Kent
A grammar school for boys (with a mixed sixth form) focusing on mastery and cognitive education.
Exam Board
Medway Test (GL Assessment)
Competition Ratio
3:1
Key Exam Dates
- 1Registration Opens: May 2026 (Expected)
- 2Registration Closes: 12 June 2026
- 3SEN Special Arrangements: 22 June 2026
- 4Entrance Exam (In-area): 15-16 September 2026
- 5Entrance Exam (Out-of-area): 19-20 September 2026
- 6Results Released: 14 October 2026
- 7Local Authority Application Deadline: 31 October 2026
- 8National Offer Day: 1 March 2027
Preparation Strategy Tips
Develop a strong vocabulary for the Verbal Reasoning section.
Practice timed maths papers.
Contact & Admissions Office
Address
Lettington Terrace, Chatham, Kent, ME4 6UG
Phone
01634 830083
Official Website
https://www.holcombegrammar.org.uk/Admission Guidelines
Admissions require a passing score in the Medway Test.
Catchment Area Policy
Prioritizes high scorers and local residents.
Application Procedure
Register for the Medway Test and apply via the CAF.
Frequently Asked Questions About Holcombe Grammar School
Verified admissions details, test formats, catchment guidelines, and preparation advice for Holcombe Grammar School.
What 11+ entrance exam board does Holcombe Grammar School use?
Holcombe Grammar School in Chatham, Kent uses Medway Test (GL Assessment). The test is provided by GL Assessment and typically evaluates Mathematics, English comprehension and SPaG, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal/Spatial Reasoning using multiple-choice optical mark sheets.
How many Year 7 places are available at Holcombe Grammar School and how competitive is it?
Holcombe Grammar School offers approximately 120 Year 7 places, with competition historically rated as 3:1. Admissions criteria: Admissions require a passing score in the Medway Test.
What is the catchment area policy for Holcombe Grammar School?
Prioritizes high scorers and local residents. For state grammar applications, parents must ensure their permanent residence satisfies published local authority criteria before the 31st October Common Application Form (CAF) deadline.
How and when do I apply for the Holcombe Grammar School 11+ test?
Register for the Medway Test and apply via the CAF. Key dates: Registration Opens: May 2026 (Expected); Registration Closes: 12 June 2026; SEN Special Arrangements: 22 June 2026; Entrance Exam (In-area): 15-16 September 2026; Entrance Exam (Out-of-area): 19-20 September 2026; Results Released: 14 October 2026; Local Authority Application Deadline: 31 October 2026; National Offer Day: 1 March 2027. Always consult the official school website for any annual adjustments.
How can my child prepare for the Holcombe Grammar School entrance test?
Focus on: Develop a strong vocabulary for the Verbal Reasoning section., Practice timed maths papers.. Preparation should begin in early Year 5 with disciplined 15-minute daily micro-practice, timed mock exams matching the Medway Test (GL Assessment) format, and systematic mistake review using LuraPrep to eliminate repeat errors.
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