Secondary schools in Kent still operate a selective system. Children have the option to opt out of the 11+ or take the exam and try for a space at a grammar school.
We have around 100 secondary schools including grammar, non-selective and academies. We also have a number of special schools and Pupil Referral Units (PRUs) which cater to a wide range of Special Educational needs. Alongside this there are a large number of independent schools and the first free school in Kent is due to open in September 2013.
Whichever type of school you choose to work in will come with its own unique atmosphere and challenges, that’s why Kent County Council offers a range of support and development opportunities to help with your continued professional development throughout your teaching career.
If you are interested in working at a school in Kent we would recommend organising a convenient time to visit the school. For more information on Kent secondary schools in general please contact the Kent Teach team at kent.teach@kent.gov.uk.
Please read some case studies from Kent secondary schools:
Knole Academy is a co-educational all-ability school of 1200 students in Sevenoaks, just half an hour’s train journey from London. We benefit from academy status and have excellent facilities, lovely students and a very friendly staff. Each year group has between 220 and 240 students, who are streamed according to ability from grammar stream to those who need additional support. We have a vibrant Sixth Form with a range of A’ Levels and vocational subjects. It is a popular school both in the area and further afield, and we aim to ensure that all students fulfil their potential. We also believe that there should be fun in learning.
There is a comprehensive CPD programme which enables all staff to learn and develop their skills. Our NQT programme is highly developed and newly qualified staff develop new skills quickly as a result of this programme. There are also a number of development opportunities through internal secondments, work shadowing and the sharing of good practice.
Our expressive arts specialism along with a global outlook has resulted in a number of links in Europe and a variety of cultural trips which staff are also invited to attend. We are highly involved with the local community.
Our motto is “Creativity in learning, confidence to achieve”. This is as relevant for staff and students, as there is a clear will for everyone to continue learning.
For more information please view our school website.
At Hextable School, learning and caring is at the forefront of all we do and we strive to ensure that every child achieves regardless of entry levels. The success of our students is the core of our vision and our staff work hard to achieve this.
The school is in a semi-rural setting and has excellent access to London, Bluewater Shopping Centre, Ebbsfleet International and Europe (via Eurostar or Ferry). Our staff are a committed team who work hard and support each other. We encourage and support staff to become outstanding practitioners through opportunities for training, coaching and mentoring. Our NQT programme is well established and enables those new to the profession to develop their skills and confidence quickly.
Our link to South East Dance Centre offers students and staff the opportunity to work in a centre of excellence giving them access to dance professionals through workshops and performance.
We have a wide curriculum that offers students a range of opportunities. We believe that exciting, creative teaching inspires and motivates students to achieve, hence our motto ‘Excite, Excel, Exceed’.
The school is in an exciting period of change, if you would like to be a part of this please see our school website.
The North School is situated in the town of Ashford in Kent. Ashford lies on the Great Stour River and has excellent transport links with Ashford International Station and the M20 motorway. Ashford is growing rapidly following a successful regeneration project which has transformed the area.
The North School is a popular, mixed gender secondary school that caters for ages 11-19; we are oversubscribed with 1100 students on the roll. We aim to instil a strong sense of discipline in our children and place an emphasis on quality teaching and learning. Our specialisms in sport and information technology, along with our rural facilities, make us a popular choice in the local area.
We are lucky to have modern, attractive buildings with excellent modern facilities. Our Outdoor and Environmental Centre is a popular resource, both for the school and for the community, as is the North School Farm which encourages the children to learn at first hand about horticulture, agriculture and animal care.
For more information please visit our school website.