The Skinners' School
Tunbridge Wells, Kent · TN4 9PG
The Skinners' School is a selective boys' grammar school in Tunbridge Wells, established in 1887 and now part of the Skinners' Academies Trust. It serves 1,148 pupils across the main school and sixth form, combining rigorous academics with a strong emphasis on co-curricular learning and independence. The school balances scholarly ambition with pastoral care, drawing on its historic foundations while remaining forward-focused.
- →Selective grammar entry ensures cohort of academically motivated peers
- →Strong tradition of extra-curricular provision (CCF, DofE, music, sport, expeditions)
- →Day-only model with reasonable Tunbridge Wells location for commuters
- →Sixth form with 344 pupils offering breadth and specialist teaching
Who thrives here
Academically capable boys who are motivated by traditional grammar-school rigour and value enrichment outside the classroom. Pupils who thrive on structured pastoral systems and benefit from clear leadership pathways work well here.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
St John's Road
Tunbridge Wells, Kent
TN4 9PG
Nearest stations
Frequently asked questions
How much does The Skinners' School cost?
The Skinners' 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 Skinners' School?
The Skinners' 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 Skinners' School's exam results?
At The Skinners' School, 31% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 58.4% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.
Is The Skinners' School a boarding school?
The Skinners' School is a day school in Tunbridge Wells and does not offer boarding.
What is The Skinners' School's latest inspection rating?
Ofsted rated The Skinners' School “Good” (2021).
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Strong pastoral and house systems with clear discipline
✓Excellent co-curricular provision (CCF, DofE, music, drama, sport)
✓Well-established expeditions and overseas trips for enrichment
✓Selective entry ensures capable peer group
✓Historic reputation and continuity as boys' grammar
✓Formal leadership opportunities (prefects, Head Prefect)
Common concerns
!Ofsted not yet inspected—no independent assurance of standards
!Limited transparency on academic results and university destinations online
!Day-only model with no flexibility for working parents seeking boarding
!Grammar selection can be pressure point for 11-year-olds
!Sparse detail on SEND and Pupil Premium outcomes