Dartford Grammar School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

School: Dartford Grammar School
Location: Dartford, Kent
Type: Foundation selective school for boys (ages 11-19), co-educational sixth form
Current Roll: Approximately 1,203 students (461 in sixth form)
Ofsted Rating: Outstanding
Special Recognition: International Baccalaureate School of the Decade

About Dartford Grammar School

Dartford Grammar School represents academic excellence in Kent's selective education system. Founded in 1864, this prestigious institution has built an outstanding reputation for nurturing bright young minds over more than 150 years. The school serves boys from Year 7 through to Sixth Form, whilst welcoming girls into its co-educational sixth form environment.

Located in the historic town of Dartford, the school combines traditional values with modern educational approaches. Students benefit from exceptional facilities and a curriculum designed to challenge and inspire. The school's commitment to developing global citizens is evident through its International Baccalaureate programme, which earned recognition as IB School of the Decade.

Academic achievement remains consistently high, with students regularly securing places at Russell Group universities, including Oxford and Cambridge. The school's ethos centres on academic rigour balanced with extensive co-curricular opportunities, ensuring students develop both intellectually and personally.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Dartford Grammar School uses Kent's standardised 11+ testing system to identify students with the academic potential to thrive in a selective environment. The assessment evaluates candidates across four key areas designed to measure natural ability and academic readiness.

Assessment Components:

• Verbal Reasoning: Tests understanding of language, vocabulary, and ability to follow written instructions
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Evaluates logical thinking through patterns, sequences, and spatial awareness
• Mathematics: Assesses numerical reasoning, problem-solving skills, and mathematical concepts
• English: Tests reading comprehension, grammar, and written communication skills

Students achieving scores in the top 25% of all Kent candidates qualify for grammar school admission. The school particularly values students who demonstrate intellectual curiosity and the resilience needed for academic challenge.

How to Apply

The application process for Dartford Grammar School follows Kent County Council's coordinated admissions system, ensuring fairness and transparency for all candidates.

Application Steps:

• Registration: Complete your application through the KentChoices online system
• School Preference: List Dartford Grammar School as one of your preferred schools
• Assessment Registration: Register separately for the Kent Test (11+) through Kent County Council
• Test Date: Attend the 11+ assessment at your designated test centre
• Results: Receive qualification status and school allocation through KentChoices

Key Requirements:

• Student must achieve qualifying score in Kent Test
• Application must be submitted by the specified deadline
• Student must be in Year 6 when applying for September entry
• Permanent address must be eligible under Kent's admissions criteria

The school operates a fair and transparent admissions process, with oversubscription criteria clearly defined in their admissions policy. Priority is given to students meeting specific geographical and family circumstances criteria.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition specialises in preparing students for competitive grammar school entry, with particular expertise in Kent's selective system. Our comprehensive support ensures your child approaches the 11+ assessment with confidence and the skills necessary for success.

Our Dartford Grammar School Preparation Includes:

• Diagnostic Assessment: Identify your child's current ability levels and target areas for development
• Structured Learning Programme: Tailored curriculum covering all four 11+ components with progressive difficulty
• Practise Papers: Regular exposure to Kent Test-style questions and timing conditions
• Reasoning Skills Development: Specialist techniques for both verbal and non-verbal reasoning challenges
• Mock Examinations: Realistic test conditions to build confidence and exam technique
• School-Specific Guidance: Understanding Dartford Grammar School's ethos and what they seek in successful candidates

Our experienced tutors understand the specific demands of Kent's testing system and the academic standards expected at Dartford Grammar School. We provide ongoing progress monitoring and adjust our approach to maximise your child's potential, ensuring they are fully prepared for both the assessment and the academic challenges ahead.

With Taylor Tuition's expert guidance, your child will develop not only the technical skills required for 11+ success but also the academic foundation necessary to excel at one of Kent's most prestigious grammar schools.