The Norton Knatchbull School
Ashford, Kent · TN24 0QJ
The Norton Knatchbull School is a long-established boys' grammar school in Ashford, Kent, with roots tracing to the 1600s. It combines traditional academic values with a modern, forward-looking approach, serving a cohort of 1,274 day pupils across ages 11–18. The school emphasises rigorous scholarship alongside pastoral care and co-curricular breadth, positioning itself as a pillar of the local community with a strong sporting and academic reputation.
- →Selective grammar school entry with proven academic rigour and track record over centuries
- →Strong sporting facilities and competitive sports programme across multiple disciplines
- →Day-only format with established local networks and feeder relationships across Kent
- →Sixth form provision integrated within the school, offering continuity and specialist teaching
Who thrives here
Academically able boys who have passed the Kent 11+ examination and thrive in a traditional, structured grammar school environment with emphasis on both scholarly achievement and well-rounded development through sport and cultural activities.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
Hythe Road
Ashford, Kent
TN24 0QJ
Nearest stations
Frequently asked questions
How much does The Norton Knatchbull School cost?
The Norton Knatchbull 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 The Norton Knatchbull School?
The Norton Knatchbull 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 The Norton Knatchbull School's exam results?
At The Norton Knatchbull School, 11.5% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 45.8% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.
Is The Norton Knatchbull School a boarding school?
The Norton Knatchbull School is a day school in Ashford and does not offer boarding.
What is The Norton Knatchbull School's latest inspection rating?
Ofsted rated The Norton Knatchbull School “Good” (2023).
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Long-established reputation and heritage within Kent community
✓Strong pastoral care and house system creating sense of belonging
✓Competitive sporting opportunities and well-maintained facilities
✓Academic rigour appropriate to grammar school selectivity
Common concerns
!Day-only format may limit flexibility for working parents or those outside immediate area
!Not yet inspected by Ofsted, so formal quality assurance awaited
!Limited recent public information on specific exam results and university destinations