Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys, Canterbury
Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys, Canterbury
Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys 11 Plus Guide
At a Glance
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Boys Only
Places per year: 180
Ofsted Rating: Outstanding
The Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys
Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys is a selective grammar school in Canterbury, Kent, catering for pupils aged 11 to 18. Commonly referred to as “The Langton”, it is well regarded for its strong academic record, forward-thinking approach and culture of intellectual curiosity.
While it has traditionally been a boys’ school, the sixth form welcomes both male and female students. The school is particularly focused on science, philosophy and teamwork, promoting independent thought and critical analysis.
Students benefit from excellent facilities and an extensive choice of extracurricular activities. A high proportion progress to Oxbridge and other leading Russell Group universities. The Langton is committed to developing both academic achievement and personal growth, with an emphasis on leadership, creativity and responsibility.
Location & Contact Info
Contact details, address and parking information for The Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys
Ofsted Report
Ofsted report breakdown for The Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys
Exam Format
Learn about the 11 Plus exam format at The Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys
Preparing for the 11 Plus
Help your child prepare with tips, exam papers, and featured tuition agencies
Key Dates
All key dates and application information for The Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys
How to Apply
Information on the application process for The Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys
FAQs
Frequently asked questions and answers for The Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys
Schools Nearby
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Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys Key Information
We at 11 Plus Hero can provide you with key school contacts and information for Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys.
School Address
Full Address:
Simon Langton Grammar School for BoysLangton Lane, Nackington Road
Canterbury
Kent
CT4 7AS
Contact Information
Parking in the school
Parking is not available on the premises but there are a number of car parks in close proximity.
Additional parking off site
New Dover Road Park & Ride, New Dover Road, Canterbury, CT1 3EJ. Mon-Sun 24h
Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys Ofsted Report
Quick Summary
Overall rating: Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys offers an outstanding education where pupils feel supported and motivated.
Academic strength: Students achieve highly across subjects, with many progressing to top universities and apprenticeships.
Teaching and curriculum: Expert teachers deliver an ambitious curriculum that fosters curiosity and problem-solving.
Behaviour and culture: Behaviour is excellent, with pupils enthusiastic about learning and supported by rich clubs and activities.
Leadership and safeguarding: Leadership is effective and safeguarding is strong, though communication with parents could improve.
Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys Exam Format
Entry into Year 7 at The Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys is through the Kent Test, which is organised by GL Assessment.
The GL 11 Plus Kent Test: Overview
Paper One
English and Maths: The first stage of the Kent Test is the English and maths paper, lasting one hour in total. It is divided into two 30-minute sections, each beginning with five minutes of practice questions before 25 minutes of timed assessment. The English section usually features a reading comprehension alongside other tasks that test vocabulary, grammar and overall literacy skills. The maths section covers problem solving and core numeracy.
Paper Two
Reasoning: The second paper also lasts for one hour and focuses on reasoning skills. The first 30 minutes assess verbal reasoning, beginning with a short practice section. The remaining time is dedicated to non-verbal reasoning, split into shorter, timed parts that measure spatial awareness, logic and pattern recognition.
Additional
In addition, pupils complete a writing task that lasts 40 minutes, including 10 minutes for planning. While this task is not marked as part of the Kent Test score, it may be reviewed by a headteacher panel if your child’s results are borderline.
The Kent Test - GL 11 Plus Assessment Criteria
| English | Maths | Verbal Reasoning | Non-Verbal Reasoning | Additional |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Pass Mark
Each pupil receives three standardised scores, one each for English, maths and reasoning, plus a combined total. Scores for each paper range from 69 to 141, meaning the maximum overall score is 423.
To be considered for a place at The Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys, children generally need a minimum total of 332, with no individual score below 106.
Catchment Area
Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys operates a priority catchment area within a 9-mile radius from the school. Boys will be granted admission based on the admission priority scheme outlined below followed by the proximity of their permanent location of residence to Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys as determined by the National Land and Property Gazetteer (NLPG) address point data.
Additional Eligibility
Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys follows a super-selective admissions process, giving priority to applicants with the highest Kent Test scores while also recognising certain social and medical needs. The order of priority is as follows:
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Boys with an Education, Health and Care Plan that names Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys.
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Looked After Children and previously Looked After Children.
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Boys scoring 20 or more marks above the Kent Test pass mark, in the following order:
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Applicants with a proven health or access need supported by professional evidence.
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Boys with a sibling already attending the school or sixth form.
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Boys eligible for Pupil Premium (application must include the Supplementary Information Form).
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Boys living within nine miles of the school, prioritised by distance.
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All other boys who reach the Kent Test pass mark, in the following order:
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Applicants with a proven health or access need supported by professional evidence.
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Boys with a sibling at the school or sixth form.
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Boys eligible for Pupil Premium (application must include the Supplementary Information Form).
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Boys living within nine miles of the school, prioritised by distance.
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Click here to full the full The Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys Admissions Policy.
Preparing for the 11 Plus Test at The Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys
Helping your son prepare with a structured and reliable study routine can have a big impact in the lead-up to the Kent Test. Below are some effective strategies to support his 11 Plus preparation:
Useful Tips
Start Early
Begin preparation in Year 4 or the start of Year 5. This allows plenty of time for steady progress without creating too much pressure.
Use Exam Papers
Work through timed exam papers together to build familiarity with the question style and develop exam technique.
Target Weak Areas
Keep track of their performance and focus extra time on any topics or question types they find more difficult.
Encourage Daily Reading
A regular reading habit helps expand vocabulary, improve comprehension and boost analytical thinking – all vital for the 11 Plus.
Make Use of Online Resources
Digital learning tools can provide personalised practice and clear feedback to make study time more effective and engaging.
Best Chance of Success
Keeping preparation steady, organised and encouraging will help your child feel confident and well-prepared when exam day arrives.
11 Plus Mock Exams in Your Area
We’re currently working on setting up a network of local test centres to offer in-person 11 Plus mock exams that closely match the format used by The Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys. These sessions will provide a valuable opportunity for your child to practise under real exam conditions, helping to build confidence and improve performance. Although this service isn’t available just yet, you can register your interest by completing the form below. We’ll get in touch as soon as mock exams become available in your area.
Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys Key Dates and Application Information
It can be difficult and confusing to keep track of all the application deadlines and dates for grammar school application, so 11 Plus Hero has compiled them for you in one place.
Registration Opens
Registration Closes
Kent Test (Kent Primary Schools)
Kent Test (Out-of-County Primary Schools)
Results Day
Common Application Form Deadline
The Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys Application Process
The application process for The Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys involves three key stages:
Admissions Policy 2026
Make sure you read the The Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys Admissions Policy PDF to ensure you and your child understand the process and eligibility criteria.
View Admissions PolicyRegister for the Kent Test
Register through the Kent County Council website. Registration typically opens in June and closes in early July.
Visit Council WebsiteCommon Application Form (CAF)
Complete and submit the common application form to your local authority by 31 October 2025. Make sure to include The Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys as one of your preferences.
Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys, Canterbury FAQs
Parents must register for the Kent Test through Kent County Council, then list the school on the Secondary Common Application Form. Offers are made according to test results and the school’s oversubscription criteria.
The Kent Test assesses verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, spatial reasoning, maths and English. Pupils must achieve the pass mark to qualify, while those scoring 20 or more marks above may receive priority under the school’s super-selective system.
Entry is very competitive, with more applicants than places each year. Boys with the highest Kent Test scores are prioritised, alongside applicants with siblings, Pupil Premium eligibility, or medical and social needs supported by professional evidence.
Yes, the school gives priority to boys living within a nine-mile radius, provided they pass the Kent Test. Distance is considered when allocating places, though high scores and other admission factors remain important.