The Rochester Grammar School
Rochester, Kent · ME1 3BY
Rochester Grammar School is a selective girls' day school in Kent with a strong academic reputation and explicit commitment to metacognition and thinking skills through its Advanced Accredited Thinking School status. The school prioritises 'excellence for all' and has positioned itself as Medway's highest-attaining secondary, recently ranking in The Sunday Times Parent Power top 50 nationally. As part of the Thinking Schools Academy Trust, it emphasises transforming life chances through research-informed pedagogy and an inclusive, enriching learning environment.
- →Selective entry and strong examination results (top school in Medway by attainment)
- →Explicit focus on thinking skills, metacognition and dialogue—differentiated curriculum approach
- →Broad co-curricular offer including competitive sport (e.g. England Handball U15 national finals) and sixth form with IB option
Who thrives here
Intellectually curious girls who thrive in a structured, academically ambitious environment and benefit from explicit teaching of thinking and learning strategies. Works well for pupils seeking selective academic challenge without boarding pressure.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
Maidstone Road
Rochester, Kent
ME1 3BY
Nearest stations
Frequently asked questions
How much does The Rochester Grammar School cost?
The Rochester Grammar School is a state grammar school, so there are no tuition fees — places are free and allocated by the 11-plus exam and the school’s admissions criteria.
How do you get into The Rochester Grammar School?
The Rochester Grammar School admits pupils at 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by 11+ Selective Examination. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.
What are The Rochester Grammar School's exam results?
At The Rochester Grammar School, 49.7% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.
Is The Rochester Grammar School a boarding school?
The Rochester Grammar School is a day school in Rochester and does not offer boarding.
What is The Rochester Grammar School's latest inspection rating?
Ofsted rated The Rochester Grammar School “Good” (2023).
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓High academic standards and strong examination results (GCSE and IB)
✓Distinctive Thinking School philosophy—explicit development of metacognition and learning strategies
✓Broad co-curricular provision and competitive sport programme
✓Inclusive, supportive ethos aligned with 'excellence for all' mission
Common concerns
!Selective entry may create pressure or narrow intake; not yet inspected by Ofsted so external validation of standards limited
!As a grammar school, may not suit all learning profiles or those less confident with formal assessment