The Norton Knatchbull School Review 2026: Academic Ambition in the Heart of Kent

The Norton Knatchbull School, frequently referred to as NKS, is a selective boys grammar school with a co-educational sixth form located in Ashford, Kent. Established in 1630 by Sir Norton Knatchbull, the school is currently approaching its 400th anniversary, a milestone that underscores its deep roots in the local community. The school moved to its current site on Hythe Road in 1904 and has since evolved into a high performing academy that balances traditional values with a forward thinking curriculum. Its 2024 GCSE results place it among the highest performing schools in England, ranking in the top 10% (8th percentile) nationally. With approximately 1,300 students on roll, NKS is a cornerstone of selective education in Ashford, providing a rigorous academic environment while maintaining a strong sense of belonging for its students.

The atmosphere at The Norton Knatchbull School is one of quiet purpose and high aspiration, grounded in the school motto Altiora Peto (I Seek Higher Things). The physical campus reflects this blend of heritage and modernity; the original red brick Edwardian buildings sit alongside state of the art facilities like the Digital Learning Centre. This centre is a hub of technological innovation, where students are encouraged to use digital tools to enhance their independent research and collaboration.

Leadership is currently in a period of transition. Mr Ben Greene, who served as headteacher for seven years, is set to retire, with the governors currently in the process of appointing a successor to take the school into its fifth century of education. Under Mr Greene's tenure, the school strengthened its "Knatchbull Baccalaureate" (KnatchBacc) framework, which emphasizes four pillars: academic rigour, extracurricular learning, community leadership, and personal challenge. Students are encouraged to be not just scholars, but also leaders, with many participating in community projects and house competitions that build character and resilience.

The Norton Knatchbull School consistently achieves results that far exceed national averages. In the 2024 GCSE cohort, 85.9% of pupils achieved a grade 5 or above in both English and mathematics, compared to the England average of 45.9%. The school is ranked 378th in England for GCSE outcomes (FindMySchool ranking) and ranks 2nd among secondaries in Ashford. An Attainment 8 score of 64.2 further confirms its status as a high performing institution. A Progress 8 score of +0.32 indicates that students make above average progress from their starting points in Year 7.

At A-level, performance remains solid. The school ranks 1518th in England for A-level outcomes (FindMySchool ranking), which places it within the middle 35% of schools (25th to 60th percentile). In 2024, the average A-level grade was a B, and approximately 42.3% of students achieved A* to B grades. These results provide a robust platform for students moving into higher education, with a significant proportion entering competitive Russell Group universities.

The curriculum at NKS is designed to be dynamic and demanding, catering to the high ability of its selective intake. In the lower school, the focus is on building deep subject knowledge across a broad range of disciplines. Science is a particular strength, with many students opting for separate sciences at GCSE. The school utilizes its Digital Learning Centre to integrate technology into the classroom, ensuring students are proficient in the tools they will use in higher education and the workplace.

In the sixth form, the curriculum broadens to include approximately 30 A-level subjects. Teaching is characterized by strong subject expertise and high expectations. Students are expected to take responsibility for their own learning, supported by a structured tutorial system. The KnatchBacc framework continues through the sixth form, encouraging students to pursue the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and engage in "stretch and challenge" activities that go beyond the standard syllabus.

Where Students Go Next

The school serves as a significant pipeline to university and professional careers. According to the 2024 leavers data, 64% of students progressed to university, while 5% secured higher level apprenticeships. The school's success in elite admissions is evidenced by its Oxbridge performance; in the most recent measurement period, 12 students submitted Oxbridge applications, resulting in 3 offers and 1 acceptance at Cambridge.

Beyond the statistics, students secure places at a wide range of top tier institutions, including Durham, Exeter, and Bristol. The school's careers department provides extensive support, including mock interviews and guidance on competitive apprenticeship routes. Parents can use the Local Hub page to view these results side by side with other local providers using the Comparison Tool.

Securing a place at The Norton Knatchbull School is a highly competitive process centered on the Kent Test (11 plus). To be eligible for entry into Year 7, boys must achieve a selective score on this assessment. For the 2026 entry, registration for the Kent Test typically opens in early June 2025 and closes in early July 2025, with the test itself scheduled for September 2025.

The school is consistently oversubscribed. For the most recent intake, it received 376 applications for 173 available places, representing a subscription proportion of 2.17. Places are allocated based on Kent Test scores and proximity to the school. Parents should use the FindMySchool Map Search to check their precise distance from the school gates compared to historical intake data. For sixth form entry, the school is co-educational and requires a minimum of six GCSEs at grade 6 or above, including English and mathematics.

Pastoral care is a significant priority, with the school aiming to nurture "character, creativity, and compassion" alongside academic success. The school uses a house system to create smaller, supportive communities within the larger student body. Each house is led by a Head of House and supported by a team of tutors who monitor both academic progress and personal wellbeing.

The latest Ofsted report, following an inspection in December 2023, rated the school as Good in all areas, including personal development and behaviour. Inspectors found that pupils are proud of their school and behave well. A dedicated student support hub and access to school counsellors ensure that students have the emotional support they need to navigate the pressures of a selective environment.

Extracurricular life is vibrant, with a particular emphasis on STEM and competitive sport. The school's facilities include an expansive sports hall and multi use games areas, supporting a strong tradition in rugby, cricket, and athletics.

STEM Excellence

STEM is a major pillar of the school's identity. The Digital Learning Centre and modern science labs host various clubs, including robotics and coding societies. Students frequently participate in national challenges such as the UK Maths Trust (UKMT) competitions and science Olympiads. This focus ensures that students are well prepared for the technical demands of the modern world.

Other activities include the Combined Cadet Force (CCF), which has been a staple of NKS life for decades, offering students the chance to develop leadership skills through Army and RAF sections. Music and drama also play key roles, with regular concerts and productions that utilize the school's hall and creative arts spaces.

Fees & Financial Aid

As a state funded academy and grammar school, The Norton Knatchbull School does not charge tuition fees. Education is provided free of charge to all students.

While there are no fees, the school may request voluntary contributions for certain enrichment activities, such as school trips or specialist music tuition for individuals. The school's Charging and Remissions Policy ensures that no student is prevented from participating in essential curriculum activities due to financial hardship. Support is often available for families in receipt of certain benefits, such as Income Support or Universal Credit, to help cover the costs of residential trips or equipment.

The school day typically begins at 8:45am and concludes at 3:30pm. Located on Hythe Road, the school is within walking distance of Ashford International station, making it accessible for students travelling from further afield in Kent. Public bus routes also serve the school directly. For younger students, breakfast club and after school study sessions are available, though parents should contact the school directly for up to date timings and availability of wraparound care.

• Kent Test selectivity: Entry is strictly based on passing the 11 plus. The pressure of this assessment is a significant factor for local families, and the school is heavily oversubscribed.
• Boys only until Year 12: The school remains a single sex environment for the first five years, which may not suit every child's social preferences.
• Transition in leadership: With a new headteacher set to be appointed for 2026, the school is entering a new chapter. Families should attend open events to meet the incoming leadership team.
• Academic intensity: The pace of learning is fast. Students are expected to be self motivated and capable of handling a rigorous academic workload.

The Norton Knatchbull School remains one of the premier selective choices in East Kent, offering a high calibre academic education without the cost of the independent sector. It suits academically gifted boys who are motivated by challenge and a desire to seek higher things. Its strong STEM focus and supportive pastoral structure make it an excellent environment for students aiming for top tier universities. For families who secure a place through the Kent Test, the value proposition is exceptional.