In this paper, the problem of a rectangular plate with functionally graded soft core and composite face sheets is considered using high order sandwich plate theory. This theory applies no assumptions on the displacement and stress fields in the core. Face sheets were treated using classical theory and core was exposed to the theory of elasticity. Governing equations and boundary conditions are derived using principle of virtual displacement and the governing equations are based on eight primary variables including six displacements and two shear stresses. This solution is able to present localized displacements and stresses in places where concentrated loads are exerted to the structure since the displacements in the core can take a nonlinear form which could not be seen in the previous theories such as classical and higher order shear theories. This theory is suitable for rectangular plates under all types of loadings distributed or concentrated which can be different on upper and lower face sheets at the same point. The results were compared with the published literature using theory of elasticity and showed good agreement confirming the accuracy of the present theory. Subsequently, the solution for the core with functionally graded material is presented and effectively indicates positive role of functionally graded core.