LocationBirmingham
PupilsBoys
TypeIndependent · Day
Entry points11+ · 16+
AssessmentThe school’s own entrance assessments
Ash’s view

The leading boys' school in the Midlands. Incredibly strong academically with generous bursary provision.

How entry to KES Birmingham works

KES Birmingham sets its own entrance assessments rather than using a shared national test. Depending on the entry point, these can include written papers in English and maths, reasoning tests, an interview or a group activity. Because the papers are the school’s own, practice should be matched to the style of questions it sets rather than to a generic test.

At 16+ (Sixth Form entry), students are usually assessed in the autumn of Year 11 with a mix of reasoning tests, subject papers and interviews, and offers are normally conditional on GCSE results. There is more on this on my 16+ entry page.

Dates and requirements change from year to year, so always check the latest details on the school’s website.

How I help children prepare for KES Birmingham

  • 1:1 online lessons in English comprehension and writing and maths, with the exam technique for each
  • Practice matched to KES Birmingham’s assessments and mock papers under real timings
  • Interview practice, so children can talk about themselves and their interests with confidence
  • Ash’s Exam Zone app for daily practice between lessons
  • The Exam Hub for 16+ reasoning tests, school-style papers and full mock reports

My KES Birmingham guide sets out the full process, the key dates, and a preparation plan, and my mock papers let children practise under real timings.

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Questions parents ask about KES Birmingham

At what age can my child join KES Birmingham?

KES Birmingham has entry points at 11+ and 16+. 16+ is Sixth Form entry, into Year 12.

What entrance assessments does KES Birmingham use?

The school’s own entrance assessments. The exact mix depends on the entry point, so check the school’s admissions page for your child’s year of entry.

Is KES Birmingham a day or boarding school?

KES Birmingham is a day school.