Top 10 Grammar Schools in Kent

Education is the key that unlocks countless opportunities for young minds, empowering them to shape their future and pursue their aspirations. In the heart of England’s picturesque county of Kent, a cluster of educational institutions stands out for their dedication to academic excellence and the pursuit of knowledge. These institutions, known as grammar schools, have a long-standing tradition of providing students with a first-class education, preparing them for the challenges that lie ahead.

Kent, known as the “Garden of England,” offers a unique blend of vibrant urban areas and serene countryside, making it an ideal location for educational institutions to flourish. The grammar schools in this region have a long-established reputation for nurturing intellectual curiosity, fostering critical thinking, and creating a supportive environment that encourages students to reach their full potential.

However, it is important to acknowledge that the concept of grammar schools is not without its share of debates and discussions. Advocates argue that these institutions offer numerous benefits, including rigorous academic programs, high academic standards, and a focus on traditional subjects. Students attending grammar schools often experience a challenging and academically stimulating environment, which can lead to better university prospects and career opportunities.

On the other hand, critics raise concerns about the potential drawbacks of grammar schools. One key aspect often discussed is the issue of selective admissions. Grammar schools typically employ a selective admissions process, relying on entrance exams to determine admission. This can lead to a perceived elitism and inequality in access to high-quality education. Additionally, the pressure to perform in entrance exams can place a significant burden on students, and some argue that it may have an adverse impact on their mental health and well-being.

Let’s dive in and discuss top 10 Grammar schools in Kent.

1. Dartford Grammar School

Dartford Grammar School is a prestigious selective state school located in Dartford, Kent. Founded in 1576, it is one of the oldest schools in the country and consistently ranks highly in national league tables due to its students’ exceptional exam results. The school offers a unique curriculum based on the educational philosophy of the International Baccalaureate Organisation (IBO). Pupils study the Middle Years Programme in Years 7-9 and the Diploma Programme in Years 12-13, with an emphasis on international education and language learning.

For Year 7 admissions, Dartford Grammar School has 180 places available. To apply, parents need to register their child for the Kent Test, which is an 11 plus exam used by several grammar schools in Kent. The test aims to identify the top 25% of students in terms of ability. Registration for the Kent Test opens on June 1st, 2023, and closes on July 3rd, 2023.

If a child passes the Kent Test, they may be eligible for a place at Dartford Grammar School. However, passing the test does not guarantee admission, as there are usually more qualified candidates than available spots. The Kent Test consists of two multiple-choice papers covering English, maths, verbal reasoning, and non-verbal reasoning. There is also a creative writing exercise, which is not formally marked but may be considered in certain circumstances.

The pass mark for the Kent Test is typically a total score of 332 or more out of 423, with no single score lower than 108. Dartford Grammar School has specific admission criteria that consider the applicant’s home address and whether they fall within “Zone A” (Dartford Electoral Wards) or “Out of Area.” Priority is given to looked after and previously looked after children, children eligible for pupil premium, and then remaining places are allocated based on the rank order of boys’ combined test scores.

It is important for parents to review the school’s admission policy and understand the catchment area and oversubscription criteria when applying. They should also visit the official school website or contact the school directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding admissions and other inquiries.

2. Tonbridge Grammar School

Tonbridge Grammar School is a highly regarded selective girls’ grammar school located in Tonbridge, Kent. Established in 1905, the school provides a rich educational experience for its students and is known for its academic excellence. As an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, Tonbridge Grammar combines a traditional curriculum with the IB program’s open-minded and inquiring approach.

The school is situated on a 14-acre campus in Deakin Leas, offering state-of-the-art facilities for science, drama, and sports. Tonbridge Grammar School aims to nurture cultural development in its students and foster their passion for making a positive impact on the world. The school offers various opportunities for students to participate in study tours in places like Malawi and Iceland, as well as engage in math challenges across the UK and Europe.

Here are some key details regarding the admissions process for Year 7 entry to Tonbridge Grammar School in 2024:

• Admissions Contact: For any admissions-related inquiries, you can reach out to Tonbridge Grammar School via email at admissions@tgs.kent.sch.uk or by calling 01732 365125 extension 222.
• Number of Places in Year 7: Tonbridge Grammar School has 180 places available for Year 7 admissions.
• Open Day: The school’s open day is scheduled for June 22nd, 2023. Interested parents can register for the open day on the school’s website.
• Kent Test Registration: To apply for admission, you must register your child for the Kent Test, which serves as the entrance exam for most grammar schools in Kent. Registration for the Kent Test opens on June 1st, 2023, and closes on July 3rd, 2023.
• Application Form and Deadline: Once your child has taken the Kent Test, their exam results will be communicated to you. If they are deemed suitable for grammar school, you can include Tonbridge Grammar School as one of your preferred choices on the local authority application form. The application form must be submitted to your home local council by October 31st, 2023.
• Kent Test Exam Date: The Tonbridge Grammar School 11 plus test, administered through the Kent Test, is scheduled for September 7th, 2023. If your child attends a primary school outside of Kent, they will take the test on the weekend of September 9th, 2023.
• Exam Format: The Kent Test comprises two papers, each lasting approximately 60 minutes. Paper 1 assesses English and maths, while Paper 2 focuses on verbal reasoning and non-verbal reasoning. There is also a creative writing exercise that is not formally marked but may be considered in certain circumstances.

3. The Skinners’ School

The Skinners’ School is a high-performing boys’ grammar school located in Tunbridge Wells, Kent. Here’s the information you need to know about the school’s admissions process and how to help your son excel in the Kent Test:

About The Skinners’ School:

• The Skinners’ School was founded in 1887 and aims to achieve academic excellence while fostering independence in learners.
• The school is rated Good in most categories by Ofsted, with an Outstanding rating for personal development.
• It offers a wide range of extracurricular activities in music, science, athletics, rugby, drama, and business.
• The school has a sports hall complex and a building called The Mitchell Building, which houses the English Department, Library, and Sixth Form Study Centre.

Address:
The Skinners’ School
St John’s Road
Tunbridge Wells
TN4 9PG

A level results: 84.3% A*–B

GCSE results: 83.2% 9/8/7

4. Tunbridge Wells Girls’ Grammar School

Tunbridge Wells Girls’ Grammar School (TWGGS) is a selective girls’ grammar school located in Tunbridge Wells, Kent. Here is the information you need to know about applying to TWGGS for 2024 entry to Year 7:

1. Admissions Process:

• Registration for the Kent Test, which is the entrance exam for TWGGS and other grammar schools in Kent (excluding Medway), opens on Thursday 1st June 2023 and closes on Monday 3rd July 2023 at midnight. You can register your child on the Kent County Council website.
• TWGGS uses the same entrance test and admissions procedure as other grammar schools in Kent.
• If your child is eligible for free school meals or is currently or previously a Looked After Child, you should complete a supplementary information form (SIF) available on the school’s admissions policy website.
• After the exam, the results will be emailed to you on Wednesday 18th October 2023 if you registered online. If not, the results will be sent by first-class post. Your child’s primary school will also be informed of the result.
• If your child is assessed as “suitable for grammar school,” you can include grammar schools, including TWGGS, in your school preferences on your local authority application form.
• Make sure to check TWGGS’s admissions policy and eligibility criteria before listing it as a preference on the application form. Proximity to the school can be a factor in the likelihood of being offered a place.
• The deadline to submit the application form to your home local council is 31st October 2023.
• The national school offer day is on 1st March 2024.

5. The Rochester Grammar School

The Rochester Grammar School is a selective state school for girls with a mixed sixth form located in Rochester, Kent. It ranks within the top 100 grammar schools in the country and has received various accolades for its commitment to student development and learning.

The school offers a traditional and academic curriculum for girls, with an enriched study program in Year 9. In the sixth form, students study the International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma program, which aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring young people. The average diploma points awarded in 2022 were 35.4, equivalent to two A* grades and one A grade at A level.

The Rochester Grammar School has a strong house system, with students belonging to one of six houses named after influential women. The school organizes various house events throughout the year, including sports competitions, art competitions, and singing performances.

It’s important to consult the school’s admission policy and research the oversubscription criteria and catchment area of your target schools. For more information about the Medway Test and resources to help your child prepare, you can refer to a comprehensive guide available.

Remember to contact the school directly or visit their official website for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding admissions and the application process.

6. The Judd School

The Judd School is a boys’ grammar school located in Tonbridge, Kent. Established in 1888, it has consistently received an Outstanding rating from Ofsted. The school focuses on maintaining high academic standards while also fostering resilience and character development among its students. The motto of the school is ‘Learn, Grow, Belong.’ The Judd School offers a wide range of opportunities for social, academic, and personal development, including various clubs, visits, and activities. It is renowned for its exceptional sports facilities, including 6 grass rugby fields and high-quality cricket squares, situated on a 26-acre site.

Here is some key information about The Judd School:

• Address: Brook Street, Tonbridge, TN9 2PN
• Local authority: Kent County Council
• School type: Boys’ grammar
• Headteacher: Jon Wood
• Number of pupils: 1,471
• National rank (Sunday Times Parent Power): 71
• A-level results: 81.2% A*–B
• GCSE results: 73.5% 9/8/7

7. Weald of Kent Grammar School

Weald of Kent Grammar School is a prestigious girls’ grammar school situated in Tonbridge, Kent. Founded in 1982, it has a strong track record of academic success and a commitment to developing students’ emotional intelligence. In 2017, the school expanded with the addition of a second campus in Sevenoaks. Led by Headteacher Richard Booth, the school boasts a student population of 1,450 and ranks 76th in the Sunday Times Parent Power national ranking. With impressive A-level results of 80.3% A*–B and GCSE results of 73% achieving grades 9/8/7, Weald of Kent Grammar School has a reputation for delivering excellent educational outcomes.

The school’s admissions process for Year 7 includes registration for the Kent Test, which is shared by 32 grammar schools in Kent. The exam consists of two papers assessing English, maths, verbal reasoning, and non-verbal reasoning skills. Weald of Kent Grammar School’s oversubscription criteria prioritize girls with Education, Health and Care Plans, followed by siblings of current students, those with medical or special access needs, Pupil Premium recipients, and children living in designated areas. By providing comprehensive information on admissions, term dates, and exam preparation, Weald of Kent Grammar School aims to assist parents in making informed decisions for their daughters’ educational journey.

8. Highworth Grammar School

Highworth Grammar School is a large selective state school for girls located in Ashford, Kent. The school has a reputation for combining academic excellence with comprehensive pastoral support, fostering a love for learning among its motivated students. Currently ranked within the top 100 grammar schools in the UK, Highworth Grammar School emphasises creativity and innovation in its teaching approach. The school offers an inspiring enrichment program that encourages resourcefulness and allows students to pursue their own interests. Music holds a prominent place at the school, with the seven learning communities named after notable female musicians, and regular musical activities involving collaboration across year groups.

The school’s address is Highworth Grammar School for Girls, Quantock Drive, Ashford, Kent TN24 8UD. It falls under the jurisdiction of Kent County Council and is classified as a girls’ grammar school. Duncan Beer serves as the Headteacher, leading a student population of over 1,450. In the Sunday Times Parent Power national ranking, Highworth Grammar School holds the impressive position of 98. The school’s A-level results stand at 78% A–B, while its GCSE results show a commendable 69% of students achieving grades A/A/9/8/7.

For Year 7 admissions, the school provides key information and important dates. The admissions contact can be reached at admissions@highworth.kent.sch.uk. Highworth Grammar School offers 210 places in Year 7, and the open events for prospective students and their families take place in October 2023. Registration for the 11 plus exam, known as the Kent Test, opens in early June 2023 and closes in late June or early July 2023. Interested parents can complete their child’s registration on the Kent County Council website. It is important to note that separate registration is required for grammar schools in Medway as they do not utilize the Kent Test.

Children who are looked after or previously looked after, or eligible for the pupil premium, may receive prioritization for places based on the school’s admission criteria. Parents of children falling into these categories should complete a supplementary information form (SIF) available in the school admissions policy appendix.

9. Dane Court Grammar School

Dane Court Grammar School is a selective state school and academy located in Broadstairs, Kent. They offer education for boys and girls aged 11 to 18. The school focuses on developing students’ academic potential, integrity, and confidence. With a newly-completed £20 million rebuilding program, the school provides modern facilities for 21st-century learning.

The curriculum at Dane Court Grammar School emphasises challenge for all, breadth, and internationalism. Students can choose from a wide range of subjects, including film, food preparation and nutrition, global citizenship, sociology, health and social care, Japanese, and language acquisition. In the sixth form, students study the International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB).

For Year 7 admissions, Dane Court Grammar School uses the Kent Test. The registration for the test opens on Thursday 1st June 2023 and closes on Monday 3rd July 2023. After receiving the test results, if the child has achieved the pass mark, they become eligible for a grammar school place. The common application form (CAF) deadline is 31st October 2023. The school has an admission criteria prioritizing children in local authority care, those with medical or special access reasons, and those eligible for pupil premium.

Dane Court Grammar School has term dates from September 2023 to July 2024, with half-term breaks included. The school offers over 165 places in Year 7, and it is recommended to research the admission policies and oversubscription criteria of the school.

10. Invicta Grammar School

Invicta Grammar School is a large selective state school and academy for girls, located in Maidstone, Kent. It is committed to personal development and preparing students for the modern world. The school achieves excellent exam results, ranking among the top 10 grammar schools in Kent. It offers enrichment opportunities in art, music, and sport to develop confidence and leadership skills.

The school’s headteacher is Van Beales, and it has over 1,500 pupils. In terms of academic performance, the school ranks as the best secondary school in Maidstone. It is rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted. The A level results are 81.9% A–B, and the GCSE results are 54.8% A/A/9/8/7.

For Year 7 admissions, the school has 240 places available. Parents can contact the school for admissions-related inquiries. The school organizes open events on various dates. To apply, parents need to register their child for the Kent Test, which is an 11 plus exam. Registration opens on June 1, and the test will be held on September 7, 2023. The test covers English, math, verbal reasoning, and non-verbal reasoning. A creative writing exercise is also included.

Passing the Kent Test does not guarantee a place, as there may be more qualified candidates than available spots. Invicta Grammar School’s admission criteria prioritize various categories, including looked after children, siblings of current students, and those with medical or special access reasons. The application deadline is October 31, 2023.

The term dates for the 2023–2024 academic year are as follows: Autumn term: September 4 – December 15, 2023; Spring term: January 2 – March 28, 2024; Summer term: April 15 – July 12, 2024.

Conclusion

Choosing the right school for your daughter is a crucial decision that sets the foundation for her academic journey and personal development. Invicta Grammar School stands out as a top choice in Maidstone, Kent, with its outstanding reputation, commitment to excellence, and nurturing environment.

Invicta Grammar School not only prioritizes academic achievement but also focuses on developing essential skills that will prepare students for the challenges of the modern world. With a track record of excellent exam results, the school consistently ranks among the top grammar schools in Kent. Beyond the classroom, students have ample opportunities to engage in art, music, and sports, fostering confidence, leadership, and emotional intelligence.

Applying to Invicta Grammar School involves registering your child for the Kent Test, which is a rigorous 11 plus exam. While passing the test is an important milestone, it’s crucial to note that admission is competitive, and places are limited. Familiarizing yourself with the admission criteria and deadlines is essential to maximize your child’s chances of securing a place.

If your child needs additional support to excel in the 11 plus exam, consider seeking assistance from experienced tutors. At Edumentors, tutors understand the unique challenges children face during this crucial time. They are not only close in age to the students they mentor but also study at top UK universities and have successfully navigated through rigorous interviews themselves. They possess the expertise, knowledge, and empathy required to connect with your child and provide personalised guidance, helping them reach their full potential.

Investing in your child’s education is an investment in their future. By choosing Invicta Grammar School and leveraging the support of Edumentors tutors, you can provide your daughter with a solid foundation for success, empowering her to thrive academically and beyond.

Remember, the journey towards educational excellence begins with the right choices and support.