Dartford's admissions run on the 11+ Secondary Transfer Test, with registration opening the summer before Year 6. Check eligibility, register with the school, supply the documents, sit the test in the autumn, then name the school on your county application. Missing any step costs the place, and the school's published timeline is the only reliable source for dates.

Roughly one family in six missed their first-choice secondary school for September 2026: 83.6% were offered it. — DfE, School applications and offers, 2026

If you're a parent residing in or near Dartford and are considering prestigious educational options for your child, Dartford Grammar School might be on your list. Known for its high academic standards, securing a spot in this institution requires careful planning and preparation for the 11+ Secondary Transfer Test (STT). This blog post aims to guide you through the complexities of the admission process, ensuring you have all the necessary information to support your child's educational journey.

What Is Dartford Grammar School?

Dartford Grammar School stands out as a beacon of academic excellence, but gaining entry is competitive, hinging on a child's performance in the 11+ STT.

What is the importance of the 11+ secondary transfer test (STT)?

To be considered for admission:

- Verbal Reasoning: Assessing logical thinking and problem-solving skills.

- Non-Verbal Reasoning: Evaluating the ability to understand and analyze visual information.

- Mathematics: Testing numerical and arithmetic skills.

What are eligibility criteria?

The 11+ STT is open to:

- Children in Year 6.

- Residents of Dartford or those living within a reasonable commuting distance from the school.

What is the application process?

Navigating the application process smoothly requires awareness of key steps and deadlines.

What is registration and documentation?

Starting in June of Year 5, parents need to:

- Fill out an online application form available on the school's official website.

- Provide valid proof of the child’s address and date of birth.

What is the examination process?

Scheduled typically in September of Year 6:

- The exam venue and timings are communicated post-application.

- Results are generally announced in October.

What are post-examination steps?

Upon passing the 11+ STT, further steps include:

- Accepting the offer before the deadline.

- Submitting proof of the child's identity and residency to finalize admission.

What should you do next?

Securing a place at Dartford Grammar School is a commendable achievement that requires diligent preparation for the 11+ STT. Starting early, understanding the process, and preparing thoroughly will enhance your child's chances of success. Embrace the journey with optimism and provide your child with the support needed to excel in this challenging yet rewarding endeavor.

What else is worth reading?

What can this guide not tell you about a particular school?

There is no national 11+ exam. Each school or local authority sets its own test, dates and admissions criteria, and republishes them every year, so the detail here can go out of date within a cycle. Confirm against the school’s own admissions policy and gov.uk school admissions before you rely on any date.

Every school publishes its own rule, and the national position is short:

“All schools have admission criteria to decide which children get places.” — gov.uk, School admissions

Where can you check this at source?

University application rules, deadlines and Clearing dates are set by UCAS and change each cycle. Always confirm against UCAS directly and the course page itself: