All your application questions answered.
What exam papers will my son sit?
Boys taking the 11+ exam will sit papers in English, Maths and Verbal Reasoning.
What is the pass level for standard entry at 11+ and is there an equivalent national curriculum level?
It is assumed that the work of all candidates will have been based on the relevant material of the National Curriculum up to the end of Year 5 and the examinations will reflect this. The questions will be set on the assumption that the normal syllabus for those of their age in English and Mathematics has been covered.
Please note our admission does not solely focus on a cut off mark. In addition to the examination, we also review a candidate’s school report and (if invited) interview performance. We like to gain an overall picture of a candidate’s suitability for KES before offering a place.
Where do KES pupils come from?
We receive applications from over 250 different schools. Our 11+ intake will consist of approximately 65 different schools with a mixture of independent and state schools.
Does the school have a catchment area?
No. We accept applications from families based in a wide area, and do not give preference to those living locally or those boys attending particular schools.
If my child is offered a place, will their siblings be offered a place too?
Each child is assessed on individual merit and cannot be guaranteed a place by virtue of having a sibling already at the school. This applies to all of our students.
When should I apply to the school?
Whilst our deadline for 11+ is early September, we would recommend that you apply well in advance of your child sitting the exam in October. Examination details are sent out from the end of September.
My child has a specific learning need, is any allowance made for this in the entrance exam?
Before students with a specific learning difficulty take the entrance examination, we ask that parents submit the educational psychologist’s report. This information is then reviewed by our Head of Learning Support and we would follow the recommendations made in the report.
How many scholarships are available?
We do not have a set number of scholarships each year.
What is the difference between an Assisted Place and a Scholarship?
An Assisted Place is a means-tested bursary which takes into account household income and parents’ gross assets.
Scholarships are not means tested; they are discretionary awards.
What happens if my son is awarded an Assisted Place and our financial circumstances change over the course of the year?
The school will notify you when you are required to provide new information about your income in preparation for the next school year. We ask that you tell us about any changes that will significantly affect your current financial circumstances in the meantime.
The assistance is provided on a graduated scale; therefore small changes in your income will have a correspondingly small effect on the assistance you receive.
Will the financial assistance last for the duration of my son’s time at KES?
Yes – subject to the good conduct and progress normally expected of a student, and an annual means test reassessment.
