Living in Dartford, Kent allows families to live in an affordable area while being close to countless amenities. The town is located in the Thames Estuary and is by the Kent Downs, giving you and your loved ones plenty of opportunities to explore the outdoors. One of the best things about Dartford is that it’s home to many primary and secondary schools.
As a parent, you want to ensure your child is getting the best education possible. It can be challenging to know which are the best grammar schools in Dartford.
This blog will discuss the best grammar schools in Dartford. Enrol your child in one of these schools with confidence.
Dartford Grammar School for Boys
Dartford Grammar School is one of the best local schools. It was founded in 1576, making it one of the oldest schools in the country. The students enrolled in this school are in the top 25% of academic performers.
The school offers students a broad international education that follows the principles of the International Baccalaureate. For example, every student in Year Seven studies Japanese or Mandarin Chinese. They take on an additional European language the following year.
Some important information about the school includes:
- It’s a secondary foundation school for boys
- Girls can get admitted during their sixth-form
- There are around 1,500 students enrolled
- Outstanding academic ratings
Dartford Grammar School is thought to be very selective. Your child will need to take the Kent Test and name the school as one of their preferred choices on their secondary school common application.
Students interested in enrolling in Dartford Grammar School don’t just come from the Dartford area. An increasing number of potential enrollees travel from Essex and nearby London boroughs. The student-teacher ratio is 16 students to one teacher.
The school has received an “outstanding” Ofsted rating and won’t get inspected again unless specific concerns are raised that require an inspection. In 2011, they changed their status to an “academy.” While that didn’t require them to change their name, it did enable them to receive additional funding.
Dartford Grammar School for Girls
Dartford Grammar School for Girls has been providing grammar school education since 1904. The school has a vibrant community that gives its students the chance to develop their academic skills and flourish as individuals. They offer an extensive extra-curricular programme that encourages their students to develop and explore their interests.
This facility is a selective state school that is targeted toward female students ages 11-18. It has been rated “outstanding” by Ofsted.
To apply for one of the best schools in Dartford, students will need to meet the following criteria:
- Take the 11-plus exam or the Kent Test
- Passing the Kent Test doesn’t mean you’ll get placed in the school
- Students who live in certain parishes receive priority
The school is home to numerous facilities for students to enjoy, such as a dance hall, swimming pool, and the main hall. While the school is considered selective, it currently has around 1,200 students enrolled. The student-teacher ratio is 17 students to one teacher.
Wilmington Grammar School for Boys
Another one of the top grammar schools in Dartford is the Wilmington Grammar School for Boys. This school provides forward-thinking grammar school education for boys aged 11-16. They have a co-educational Sixth Form programme.
The education they offer their students challenges them in various ways. They couple their grammar school curriculum with enrichment activities that give students a chance to grow outside the classroom.
Enrollment numbers for Wilmington Grammar School for Boys have grown in recent years. They currently have over 900 students enrolled in Years 7-11.
The school in Dartford has a “good” Ofsted rating, which isn’t as high as both Dartford Grammar Schools. However, it’s a great option for students who are looking to focus their education on physics, mathematics, and technology. The student-teacher ratio is 21 students to a single teacher.
Wilmington Grammar School for Girls
Wilmington Grammar School for Girls has been in operation since 1958. The facility continues to grow and currently has around 920 students. One of the benefits of a small school is that staff can help students identify their talents and encourage them to pursue their interests.
Some of the clubs and activities Willmington Grammar School for Girls offers its students include:
- Creative writing
- Football
- Rugby
- Handball
- Drama
- Science
- Sign language
- Glee Club
- Trampolining
Girls get taught in a single-sex environment from Years 7-11. Students can access curricular programs during their sixth form, where those from Wilmington Grammar School for Boys can participate. The school also has a “good” Ofsted rating.
As with many of the other schools, prospective students will need to take the Kent Test. The school will only offer a place to students they believe will be a good fit. The student-teacher ratio is 19 students to one teacher.
Ensure Your Child Receives the Best Education at Grammar Schools in Dartford
You can’t go wrong when looking for the best grammar schools in Dartford. The one you select depends on your child’s needs and goals. Your child is guaranteed to receive a well-rounded education at any of the schools in Dartford.
Ant Learning is here to help your child grow their minds and improve their academic success. We’ve helped over 800 children meet and surpass their learning goals with our tailored academic workshops. Contact us to learn more about the educational programmes we offer.
