Dane Court Grammar School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Name: Dane Court Grammar School
• Location: Broadstairs Road, Broadstairs, Kent, CT10 2RT
• Type: Co-educational Selective Grammar School
• Age Range: 11-18 years
• Capacity: 1,154 students
• Current Enrolment: Approximately 1,254 students
• Headteacher: Mr Martin Jones
• Establishment Status: Foundation School
• Ofsted Rating: Outstanding (2022)
• Special Recognition: International Baccalaureate World School

About Dane Court Grammar School

Located in the picturesque coastal town of Broadstairs, Dane Court Grammar School has established itself as one of Kent's premier educational institutions. This co-educational grammar school combines academic rigour with a supportive community atmosphere, serving students from across East Kent and beyond.

The school's commitment to excellence extends beyond traditional academic subjects through its prestigious International Baccalaureate programme, positioning students for success at leading universities worldwide. Dane Court's coastal location provides a unique educational environment, with the school utilising its proximity to maritime heritage and European connections to enrich the curriculum.

With an Outstanding Ofsted rating, the school demonstrates exceptional standards across all areas of education. The dedicated teaching staff focus on developing intellectual curiosity whilst nurturing each student's individual talents and interests. The school's house system fosters healthy competition and community spirit, creating lasting friendships and supporting academic achievement.

Dane Court Grammar School's extensive extracurricular programme includes competitive sports, performing arts, and academic societies. The school's debating society and Model United Nations teams regularly achieve national recognition, whilst the music and drama departments produce exceptional performances throughout the academic year.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Entry to Dane Court Grammar School requires success in the Kent Test, administered by Kent County Council. This selective assessment evaluates students' academic potential across multiple disciplines, ensuring successful candidates can thrive in the school's demanding academic environment.

The Kent Test comprises four key components:

• English: Reading comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, and writing skills assessment
• Mathematics: Arithmetic, problem-solving, and mathematical reasoning
• Verbal Reasoning: Logical thinking using language-based questions and pattern recognition
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Visual problem-solving through shapes, patterns, and spatial awareness

Students typically sit the Kent Test in September of Year 6, with results determining eligibility for grammar school places. The assessment is designed to identify students who will flourish in Dane Court's academically challenging environment and contribute positively to the school community.

Successful candidates demonstrate strong analytical thinking, excellent communication skills, and the resilience required for grammar school education. The test format requires sustained concentration and familiarity with multiple-choice questioning techniques.

How to Apply

Applications for Year 7 entry follow Kent County Council's coordinated admissions process, with specific deadlines and procedures that must be followed precisely:

Step 1: Register for the Kent Test
Parents must register their child for the Kent Test through Kent County Council's online portal. Registration typically opens in June for tests conducted in September, with a strict deadline for submissions.

Step 2: Complete the Secondary School Application
Submit your secondary school application form through Kent County Council's website, listing Dane Court Grammar School as a preference. Applications must be completed by the national deadline of 31st October.

Step 3: Attend the Kent Test
Students sit the Kent Test at designated centres across Kent in September. Test venues are allocated based on the child's primary school location or home address.

Step 4: Await Results and Offers
Kent Test results are released in October, followed by secondary school offers on National Offer Day in March. Successful candidates receive conditional offers based on their test performance and school preferences.

Parents are strongly advised to attend Dane Court's open events and visit the school to understand its ethos and expectations fully. The school's admissions team provides guidance throughout the process, ensuring families understand all requirements and deadlines.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition's expertise in Kent grammar school admissions provides families with the competitive advantage needed for success at Dane Court Grammar School. Our comprehensive preparation programme addresses the specific demands of the Kent Test whilst developing the academic foundations essential for grammar school success.

Our specialist Kent Test preparation includes:

• Diagnostic Assessment: Comprehensive evaluation of your child's current abilities and identification of areas requiring focused development
• Targeted Skill Development: Intensive work on verbal and non-verbal reasoning techniques specific to Kent Test requirements
• English Excellence: Advanced comprehension strategies, grammar mastery, and creative writing skills development
• Mathematical Proficiency: Problem-solving techniques, mental arithmetic enhancement, and reasoning skills
• Mock Examinations: Full-length practice tests under exam conditions, building confidence and time management skills
• School-Specific Guidance: Detailed advice on Dane Court's application process, deadlines, and expectations

Our experienced tutors understand the competitive nature of Kent grammar school admissions and provide personalised support tailored to each child's learning style. We maintain detailed progress records, ensuring steady improvement towards Kent Test success.

Beyond test preparation, Taylor Tuition offers ongoing academic support to ensure students thrive once they join Dane Court Grammar School. Our post-admission programmes focus on advanced study skills, time management, and subject-specific support for the demanding grammar school curriculum.

With Taylor Tuition's proven track record in Kent grammar school admissions, your child will approach the Kent Test with confidence, equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for success at Dane Court Grammar School.