GrammarboysOfsted · Outstanding
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Dartford Grammar School

Dartford, Kent · DA1 2HW

AAB+ A-level

9–7 GCSE

80%

Pupils

1,539

Inspection

Outstanding

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School website

Dartford Grammar School is one of Kent's most established selective state grammar schools, educating boys from age 11 through to sixth form on its West Hill site in Dartford. With nearly 450 years of history, it combines a strong academic tradition with a broad co-curricular programme, aiming to develop well-rounded 'international citizens'. The school is notably associated with one of its most famous alumni, Sir Mick Jagger, whose name graces a key building on site. It operates as an academy and draws high-calibre pupils from across the Dartford, Gravesham and Sevenoaks areas through Kent's selective admissions process.

  • Outstanding selective academic environment at no fee cost, offering grammar school rigour with a wide curriculum including Classics, Global Politics, and Psychology
  • Strong co-curricular breadth including DofE, music, drama, sport and international trips
  • Established sixth form with dedicated admissions process and university progression support
  • Historic school with strong community identity, an active Old Dartfordians network, and prestige of being one of Kent's most recognised grammar schools

Who thrives here

Academically able boys who are self-motivated and enjoy being part of a large, intellectually stimulating environment with strong traditions and a wide range of activities beyond the classroom. Those who thrive with high expectations and a busy school life will do particularly well.

Strengths at a glance

Exam results50th pctSports56th pctCo-curricular50th pctValue vs peers100th pctPastoral & wellbeingno data

Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.

At a glance

School typeGrammar · Day
Founded1576
Number of pupils1,539
Age range11–11
GenderBoys
FeesFree (state grammar)
Settingsuburban
LocationDartford station provides regular services to London Bridge and Charing Cross; the school draws pupils from across north Kent and parts of south-east London.

Contact & visit

West Hill

Dartford, Kent

DA1 2HW

www.dartfordgrammarschool.org.uk
01322223039
Mr Julian Metcalf, Headmaster

Nearest stations

Dartford12 min
Stone Crossing20 min

Notable alumni

Mick Jagger

Lead singer of The Rolling Stones

Keith Richards

Guitarist of The Rolling Stones

Recent investment

Mick Jagger Centre — a dedicated performing arts and events venue on the school site
Wells Language Hub and NCLE Computing Hub designations reflecting specialist investment in languages and computing

Frequently asked questions

How much does Dartford Grammar School cost?

Dartford Grammar School is a state grammar school, so there are no tuition fees — places are free and allocated by the 11-plus exam and the school’s admissions criteria.

How do you get into Dartford Grammar School?

Dartford Grammar School admits pupils at 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by 11+ Selective Examination. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.

What are Dartford Grammar School's exam results?

At Dartford Grammar School, 80% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.

Is Dartford Grammar School a boarding school?

Dartford Grammar School is a day school in Dartford and does not offer boarding.

What is Dartford Grammar School's latest inspection rating?

Ofsted rated Dartford Grammar School “Outstanding” (2022).

What parents say

Frequently praised

High academic standards and strong exam results for a non-fee-paying school

Excellent range of subjects including less common options like Classics and Global Politics

Active and varied co-curricular life including trips, DofE, music and drama

Strong sense of school identity and tradition, enhanced by the Mick Jagger heritage

Common concerns

!Large school size (1,500+ pupils) can feel impersonal for some boys, particularly those needing closer pastoral attention

!Competitive peer environment may add pressure for those not at the very top academically

!Communication can be variable across departments in a school of this scale