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Kent grammar schools we cover: A Complete Guide for Parents

Kent has more than thirty selective grammar schools. Most use the Kent Test for Year 7 entry, though a few run additional assessments — always check the school's current admissions policy. One Kent Test result can support applications to multiple schools on your KCC secondary form, but each school applies its own oversubscription rules (often distance or named priority areas).

How Kent Test admissions work

Register for the Kent Test through Kent County Council in Year 5. After the September test in Year 6, KCC reports whether your child has met the pass standard for that year. Passing does not guarantee a place at any particular grammar — oversubscription criteria decide offers when there are more qualified children than places.

Examples across the county

West Kent

The Judd School (Tonbridge, boys) and Tonbridge Grammar School (girls) are among the most sought-after schools in the county. Tunbridge Wells Girls' Grammar School and Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys serve families across west Kent. Weald of Kent Grammar School admits girls with sites in Tonbridge and Maidstone — verify campus rules each year.

Mid & north Kent

Maidstone Grammar School, Maidstone Grammar School for Girls, Invicta Grammar School and Oakwood Park Grammar School give Maidstone families several options. Along the Thames corridor, Dartford Grammar School, Dartford Grammar School for Girls, and the Wilmington grammars attract strong local demand.

East & coastal Kent

Simon Langton schools and Barton Court Grammar School serve Canterbury. Coastal grammars include Harvey Grammar School and Folkestone School for Girls, plus Dover Grammar School for Boys and Dover Grammar School for Girls. Chatham & Clarendon Grammar School on the Isle of Thanet and Sir Roger Manwood's School in Sandwich complete the eastern picture.

See our full grammar school directory for every school we profile, with links to official sites.

Key takeaways

  • One Kent Test — many possible grammar preferences on the KCC application
  • Distance and priority areas often matter as much as the pass outcome
  • West Kent and north Kent grammars are frequently oversubscribed — research KCC distance data
  • List high-quality upper schools as backups on the common application form
  • Visit open evenings (usually autumn) before you finalise preferences

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my child apply to multiple Kent grammars?

Yes — you can name several schools on the KCC secondary application. Many families list grammars they can reach realistically plus non-selective preferences as backups.

Do grammar schools hold open events?

Yes. Most hold open evenings in September and October. Check each school's website for dates.

Are grammar sixth forms open to external students?

Many Kent grammar sixth forms admit external applicants who meet GCSE entry requirements. Criteria vary by school.

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