While there isn’t a strict catchment area, distance from the school is considered when offering places. If more boys qualify than available spaces, proximity to the school becomes a deciding factor under the admissions criteria.
Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School
Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School
Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School 11 Plus Guide
If you’re thinking about applying to Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School for your child, this 2026 admissions guide provides all the essential details. It explains the application process, key information about the school, and offers advice on how to help your child prepare effectively for the 11 Plus exam.
At a Glance
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Boys Only
Places per year: 180
Ofsted Rating: Outstanding
Introduction to
Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School
Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School, commonly known as ‘The Math’, is a boys’ grammar school in Rochester, Kent. Established in 1701, it has built a strong reputation for academic excellence and is one of the most popular selective grammar schools in the Medway area.
The school offers a challenging and forward-thinking curriculum that supports both academic achievement and personal growth. As a member of the Thinking Schools Academy Trust, Sir Joseph Williamson’s promotes critical thinking and creativity while maintaining strong connections with the local community.
With excellent GCSE and A level results year after year, the school continues to rank highly for academic performance. Alongside its academic strengths, it provides a wide range of extracurricular activities, including music, sport, clubs, trips, and leadership opportunities. Entry into Year 7 is highly competitive, with places awarded based on results in the Medway Test.
1
Location & Contact Info
Contact details, address and parking information for Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School
2
Ofsted Report
Ofsted report breakdown for Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School
3
Exam Format
Learn about the 11 Plus exam format at Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School
4
Preparing for the 11 Plus
Help your child prepare with tips, exam papers, and featured tuition agencies
5
Key Dates
All key dates and application information for Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School
6
How to Apply
Information on the application process for Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School
7
FAQs
Frequently asked questions and answers for Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School
8
Schools Nearby
Search for other schools in the local area
Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School’s Key Information
The key information, such as student capacity and parking information, for Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School below is regularly updated.
School Address
Full Address:
Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School, Maidstone RoadRochester
Kent
ME1 3EL
Contact Information
Email Address
office@sjwms.org.uk
Telephone (Main Office)
01634 844008
Website Address
https://sjwms.org.uk/
Parking in the school
There is parking within the school as well as on-street parking nearby.
Additional parking off site
Car Park: Priestfields car park, Rochester, ME1 3AE, 0.6 miles from the school.
Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School Ofsted Report
The quality of education
Outstanding
Behaviour and attitudes
Outstanding
Personal development
Outstanding
Leadership and management
Outstanding
Sixth-form provision
Outstanding
Quick Summary
Overall rating: Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School is an Outstanding school, praised for its exceptional academic standards, strong leadership, and positive school culture.
Academic strength: The curriculum is ambitious, coherently planned, and extends beyond the national curriculum, ensuring pupils learn deeply, retain knowledge, and achieve exceptional results.
Teaching and curriculum: Teachers have outstanding subject expertise and use assessment effectively to address learning gaps. Pupils with SEND and those eligible for pupil premium receive excellent support and make exceptional progress.
Behaviour and culture: Pupils are polite, respectful, and highly motivated. Behaviour is exemplary, bullying is extremely rare, and enrichment opportunities support strong personal and character development.
Leadership and safeguarding: Leadership is highly ambitious and values-driven, creating a culture of respect, inclusion, and academic excellence. Safeguarding arrangements are rigorous, with pupils feeling safe, supported, and well cared for.
Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School Exam Format
Admission to Year 7 at Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School is based on a child’s performance in the Medway Test, which is organised by Medway Council and used across all local grammar schools.
The Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School Entry Exam: Overview
The Medway Test includes three key components. Developed by CEM, the test measures a broad range of academic and reasoning abilities. All parts are completed on the same day, usually in early September.
Paper One
Maths: Multiple-choice questions testing numerical understanding and problem-solving skills.
Paper Two
Verbal Reasoning: Multiple-choice questions assessing vocabulary, logic, and language reasoning.
Paper Three
Extended Writing: A creative writing task marked by teachers from Medway grammar schools.
The Medway Test 11 Plus Assessment Criteria
| English | Maths | Verbal Reasoning | Non-Verbal Reasoning | Additional: Creative Writing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Pass Mark
Pupils who achieve a standardised score above the Medway Council threshold are classed as selective and can apply for a place, although meeting this threshold does not guarantee admission.
Catchment Area
Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School does not use a catchment area, instead places are awarded based on distance of residence from the school.
Additional Eligibility
Preparing for the 11 Plus Test at Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School
Supporting your child in preparing for the Medway Test can significantly impact their performance. Here are some strategies:
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.
COMING SOON
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 Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School. 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.
Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School’s Key Dates and Application Information
These are the dates related to the Medway Test and Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School admission. Please phone the school in order to book a tour.
Registration Closes
13 June 2025
Date passed
Entrance Exam Paper
16 and 17 September 2025
Date passed
Results Published
15 October 2025
Date passed
CAF Application Deadline
31st October 2025
Date passed
National Offer Day
2nd March 2026
100 days to go
How to Apply
Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School Application Process
To apply for a Year 7 place at Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School, families need to complete both the school’s registration form and the local authority’s application process.
1
Admissions Policy 2026
Make sure you read the Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School Admissions Policy PDF to ensure you and your child understand the process and eligibility criteria.
View Admissions Policy
2
Medway Test Registration
This is handled by Medway Council. Parents must register their child during the application window, typically from late May to late June. The test usually takes place in early September of Year 6.
Visit Council Website
3
Common Application Form (CAF)
This form must be submitted to your local authority, with Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School listed as one of your preferences. The CAF deadline is 31st October 2025. Both forms must be completed – failure to submit either will result in an incomplete application.
Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School FAQs
To apply, register your child for the Medway Test through Medway Council, usually in June. After receiving results, submit your school preferences via the local authority’s secondary school application process by the stated deadline.
The Medway Test includes three sections: Maths, Verbal Reasoning, and Extended Writing. The first two are multiple-choice papers, while the writing task is marked by grammar school teachers. All sections are taken on the same day in September.
Entry is highly competitive, with many applicants achieving selective scores in the Medway Test. Only boys who meet or exceed the required threshold and rank high enough under the school’s admissions criteria are offered a place.
Schools Nearby
45 schools found within 25 miles of Rochester
Fort Pitt Grammar School
Fort Pitt Grammar School, Fort Pitt Hill, Chatham
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Girls Only
0.6 Miles Away
View School
The Rochester Grammar School
The Rochester Grammar School, Maidstone Road, Rochester
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Boys Only
1.2 Miles Away
View School
Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School
Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School, Maidstone Road, Rochester
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Boys Only
1.3 Miles Away
View School
Holcombe Grammar School
Holcombe Grammar School, Holcombe, Letchworth Avenue, Chatham
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Boys Only
1.6 Miles Away
View School
Holcombe Grammar School
Holcombe Grammar School, Holcombe, Letchworth Avenue, Chatham
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Boys Only
1.6 Miles Away
View School
Chatham Grammar
Chatham Grammar, Rainham Road, Chatham, ME5 7EH, Chatham
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Girls Only
2 Miles Away
View School
Rainham Mark Grammar School
Rainham Mark Grammar School, Pump Lane, Rainham
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Mixed Boys and Girls
4 Miles Away
View School
Gravesend Grammar School
Gravesend Grammar School, Gravesend
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Boys Only
6.3 Miles Away
View School
Mayfield Grammar School
Mayfield Grammar School, Gravesend
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Girls Only
7.2 Miles Away
View School
Maidstone Grammar School for Girls
Maidstone Grammar School for Girls, Maidstone
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Girls Only
7.5 Miles Away
View School
Invicta Grammar School
Invicta Grammar School For Girls, Maidstone
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Girls Only
7.9 Miles Away
View School
Oakwood Park Grammar School
Oakwood Park Grammar School, Maidstone
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Boys Only
8.2 Miles Away
View School
Maidstone Grammar School
Maidstone Grammar School, Maidstone
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Boys Only
8.5 Miles Away
View School
Borden Grammar School
Borden Grammar School, Sittingbourne
Assessment: GL Assessment, Individual
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Boys Only
10.5 Miles Away
View School
Highsted Grammar School
Highsted Grammar School, Sittingbourne
Assessment: GL Assessment, Individual
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Girls Only
10.6 Miles Away
View School
St Bernard's High School
St Bernard’s High School, Westcliff-on-Sea
Assessment: CSSE
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Girls Only
13.2 Miles Away
View School
Westcliff High School For Girls
Westcliff High School for Girls, Kenilworth Gardens, Westcliff-on-Sea
Assessment: CSSE
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Girls Only
Westcliff High School For Boys
Westcliff High School For Boys, Kenilworth Gardens, Westcliff-on-Sea
Assessment: CSSE
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Boys Only
13.4 Miles Away
View School
St Thomas More High School
St Thomas More High School, Westcliff-on-Sea
Assessment: CSSE
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Boys Only
13.5 Miles Away
View School
Dartford Grammar School
Dartford Grammar School, Dartford
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Boys Only
13.6 Miles Away
View School
Dartford School for Girls
Dartford Grammar School for Girls, Dartford
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Girls Only
13.6 Miles Away
View School
Wilmington Grammar School for Boys
Wilmington Grammar School for Boys, Wilmington, Dartford
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Boys Only
13.7 Miles Away
View School
Wilmington Grammar School for Girls
Wilmington Grammar School for Girls, Wilmington
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Girls Only
13.8 Miles Away
View School
Southend High School For Boys
Southend High School For Boys, Prittlewell Chase, Southend-on-Sea
Assessment: CSSE
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Boys Only
14 Miles Away
View School
Southend High School For Girls
Southend High School For Girls, Southchurch Boulevard, Southend-on-Sea
Assessment: CSSE
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Girls Only
14.8 Miles Away
View School
Shoeburyness High School
Shoeburyness High School, Caulfield Road, Shoeburyness, Southend-on-Sea
Assessment: CSSE
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Mixed Boys and Girls
Beths Grammar School
Beths Grammar School, Hartford Road, Bexley
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Boys Only
Townley Grammar School
Townley Grammar School, Townley Road, Bexleyheath
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Girls Only
Weald of Kent Grammar School
Weald of Kent Grammar School, Tonbridge
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Girls Only
17.1 Miles Away
View School
Tonbridge Grammar School
Tonbridge Grammar School, Tonbridge
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Girls Only
17.3 Miles Away
View School
The Judd School
The Judd School, Tonbridge
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Boys Only
17.3 Miles Away
View School
St Olave's and St Saviour's Grammar School
St. Olave's Grammar School, Goddington Lane, Orpington
Assessment: Individual
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Boys Only
Chislehurst & Sidcup Grammar School
Chislehurst & Sidcup Grammar School, Hurst Road, Sidcup
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Mixed Boys and Girls
Queen Elizabeth's Grammar School - Faversham
Queen Elizabeth's Grammar School, Faversham
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Mixed Boys and Girls
17.5 Miles Away
View School
Bexley Grammar School
Bexley Grammar School, Danson Lane, Welling
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Mixed Boys and Girls
Newstead Wood School
Newstead Wood School, Avebury Road, Orpington
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Girls Only
Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys
Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys, Tunbridge Wells
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Boys Only
19.5 Miles Away
View School
Tunbridge Wells Girls’ Grammar School
Tunbridge Wells Girls' Grammar School, Tunbridge Wells
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Girls Only
19.9 Miles Away
View School
The Skinners’ School
The Skinners' School, Royal Tunbridge Wells
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Boys Only
20 Miles Away
View School
Cranbrook School
Cranbrook School, Cranbrook
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Fee Paying
Boarding: Day school, Boarding
Admissions: Mixed Boys and Girls
20.2 Miles Away
View School
Highworth Grammar School
Highworth Grammar School, Ashford
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Girls Only
22.4 Miles Away
View School
Ilford County High School
Ilford County High School, Fremantle Road, Ilford
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Boys Only
23.2 Miles Away
View School
The Norton Knatchbull School
The Norton Knatchbull School, Ashford
Assessment: GL Assessment
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Boys Only
23.5 Miles Away
View School
King Edward VI Grammar School
King Edward VI Grammar School, Broomfield Road, Chelmsford
Assessment: CSSE
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Boys Only
24.4 Miles Away
View School
Chelmsford County High School
Chelmsford County High School for Girls, Broomfield Road, Chelmsford
Assessment: FSCE
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school
Admissions: Girls Only
24.6 Miles Away
View School