EDUCATION
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
NAVIGATING YOUR SCHOOL AND COLLEGE OPTIONS FOR 2026
CHOOSING A SCHOOL IS ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT DECISIONS A PARENT CAN MAKE. IN KENT, WITH ITS UNIQUE GRAMMAR SCHOOL SYSTEM, THRIVING COMPREHENSIVES, INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS AND DIVERSE SIXTH FORM AND FURTHER EDUCATION( FE) ROUTES, THE OPTIONS ARE VAST. WHETHER YOU’ RE PLANNING A YEAR 7 START IN 2026 OR RETHINKING SIXTH FORM, THIS GUIDE WILL HELP YOU MAKE AN INFORMED CHOICE.
Types of Schools in Kent:
Grammar Schools Kent has one of the largest grammar school systems in England. These selective state schools admit pupils based on academic ability, typically via the Kent Test( 11 +) taken in Year 6.
Parents considering grammar school should be aware of a few key points:
• Academic pace: Grammar schools move quickly with high expectations.
• Selective entry: Passing the 11 + doesn’ t guarantee admission- factors like distance, sibling links and school-specific rules also apply.
• Enrichment: Grammars offer a wide range of extracurriculars like debating, music and science clubs.
• Cost: No tuition fees, but expect costs for uniforms, trips and activities.
State Comprehensive Schools Kent has a wide network of nonselective state secondary schools. These comprehensives serve pupils of all abilities and are often community-focused with strong pastoral support.
Why choose a comprehensive?
• Inclusivity: Comprehensives offer a broad curriculum catering for all interests and abilities.
• Local community ties: Many families prefer their child to attend a local school, building friendships within their neighbourhood and avoiding longer commutes.
• Facilities and extras: Many offer great facilities and extracurriculars.
• Cost: Free to attend, with typical additional costs for trips and uniforms.
A top tip for parents / carers here is to use Ofsted reports, visit open evenings and speak with local families to understand each school’ s ethos and strengths.
Independent( Private) Schools Kent is home to numerous independent schools, from prestigious boarding schools to smaller day schools. Families opt for private education for diverse reasons, including:
• Smaller class sizes: Independent schools often have lower pupil-teacher ratios, allowing more tailored attention.
• Specialist facilities: Many boast exceptional resources for arts, sciences, sports and technology.
• Broader co-curricular opportunities: Private schools often offer extensive activities, trips abroad and enrichment programmes.
• Academic outcomes: While not a guarantee, independent schools often achieve high exam results and support university applications.
Cost Considerations: Fees vary widely, from around £ 5,000 to over £ 15,000 per term for day pupils, with boarding fees significantly higher. Scholarships and bursaries may help reduce costs for some families, but it’ s essential to plan finances carefully and consider potential annual fee increases.
Sixth Form vs Further Education Colleges When GCSEs are complete, families face another choice: remain at a school’ s Sixth Form, move to a different school’ s Sixth Form or attend an FE college. Each has unique advantages.
• School Sixth Forms: Often smaller and structured, offering strong pastoral support and a familiar environment. Ideal for students who thrive with routine and close teacher relationships.
• Sixth Form Colleges: Larger and more diverse, offering a broader range of A-levels, BTECs and vocational courses. Students enjoy more independence, bridging the gap between school and university life.
• FE Colleges: Specialise in practical and vocational qualifications, such as technical diplomas, catering, engineering, media or health and social care. Perfect for students wanting to head straight into a skilled career or apprenticeships.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing No matter which route you’ re exploring, it’ s wise to think ahead. Here’ s what to keep in mind:
• Your child’ s personality and learning style: Is your child academic, sporty, artistic, practical, shy, outgoing or highly independent? Different schools suit different temperaments.
• Logistics: Consider the journey to school. A long commute can quickly sap a child’ s energy and enthusiasm.
• Extracurricular interests: Does your child want music, drama, advanced sport, science clubs or creative arts? Check schools’ facilities and timetables.
• Academic pressure: Some schools are highly competitive and fast-paced, which suits some children but not all.
• Costs and fees: Even state schools incur costs for trips, uniform and enrichment activities, and private schooling requires significant financial planning.
152 • www. insidekent. co. uk