Competition for grammars will not affect Kent pupils

County education chiefs have played down statistics showing that competition for grammar school places has been more intense this year.

More than 15,900 children who sat the Kent 11-plus found out last week whether they had passed and could then apply for a grammar school place.

Data shows the number of children from outside Kent who have passed the test increased this year by 612 to 2,757. The number of Kent children passing the test was 4,650.

That could lead to concerns for some as the number of places available is 5,060 although education chiefs say many of those from outside Kent usually end up accepting places elsewhere.

Cllr Roger Gough, KCC’s cabinet member for children, young people and education, said: “We anticipate the 4,650 Kent children who have been assessed as being suitable for grammar school will, in most cases, enjoy priority for the 5,060 places available in the county over pupils from other authorities.

“Although many of the 2,757 pupils from outside Kent will name our schools among their choices, experience has shown the majority of these children ultimately secure places in their own county.

“I appreciate this is a stressful time for families and we try to make the process as straightforward as possible. In Kent we are lucky to have a rich and diverse mix of schools, and parents should consider this when naming the schools they would like their child to attend, in priority order.

“It is also vital that parents carefully consider how their child will get to school, before applying for a school place.”

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Most of the Kent children who have passed the 11-plus will be given priority says KCC

Cllr Roger Gough