IN ASSOCIATION WITH
EDUCATION
SPECIAL FEATURE: EDUCATION IN KENT 2026
Kent has long been celebrated as one of the UK’ s strongest counties for education, and in 2026 that reputation remains well earned with the county’ s bounty of excellent schools continuing to deliver strong academic outcomes, helping pupils to build solid foundations for future success.
In the most recent Department for Education performance data, Kent’ s secondary schools recorded an Attainment 8 score( a student’ s average achievement across eight key subjects at GCSE or equivalent) of 46.6- slightly above the England average, while 46.7 % of pupils achieved grade 5 or above in both English and maths GCSEs, again out-performing national figures in state-funded settings.
For families choosing a school for their children- whether local state schools, selective grammar schools or independent options- it’ s reassuring to see such consistent performance. Kent’ s diversity of providers means there’ s a strong mix of academic emphases and pastoral approaches, from high-progress grammar schools to vibrant comprehensive settings.
Ofsted inspection outcomes further underline the quality of education on offer across the county, with a notable number of Kent schools rated Outstanding or Good giving parents’ confidence that such academic rigour is matched with supportive learning environments. Recent reports also uncovered that more than 12 % of Kent schools held the highest Outstanding rating at their last inspection, which is a significant representation among local authorities nationwide.
Of course, success in the classroom is more than just exam results. Across the county, Kent’ s pupils benefit from rich extracurricular programmes, specialist support for additional needs and dedicated pastoral care that helps them grow as individuals.
From the arts and sport to leadership opportunities and community projects, our schools strive to nurture well-rounded young people who will finish their education ready to contribute meaningfully to society.
So, whether you’ re a parent or carer weighing up school choices, an educator striving for excellence, or simply someone who cares about young lives, this year’ s insideKENT education special feature offers insight, inspiration and practical knowledge about the opportunities and achievements shaping education in the Garden of England today. www. insidekent. co. uk • 151