In a county defined by the 11-plus, Dartford Science & Technology College (DSTC) offers a distinct alternative: a non-selective girls' school that champions STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with genuine conviction. Situated on Heath Lane, the college serves a diverse catchment of local families. While the "Specialist College" designation is a legacy title, the commitment to these subjects remains woven into the school's fabric.
It operates as a smaller-than-average secondary, fostering a "small school" feel where staff know students well. As a non-selective school in a grammar school stronghold, it caters largely to girls who did not sit or pass the Kent Test, yet it consistently demonstrates that academic ambition is not the preserve of the selective sector.
The campus is a mix of functional mid-century blocks and modern additions, reflecting its evolution. The atmosphere is purposeful but relaxed. Miss Joanne Sangster, who took up the Principal post in September 2023, leads a leadership team focused on the ethos "Educate, Empower, Excel". The school prides itself on pastoral strength, knowing that confidence is often the first hurdle for students arriving from a competitive primary system.
There is a noticeable absence of the "hothouse" pressure found in neighbouring grammars. Instead, the culture focuses on steady progress and practical skills. The STEM identity is visible in the extracurricular menu and the status given to mathematics and science departments, although the curriculum remains broad.
In 2024, the school's performance reflects its non-selective intake within a highly selective area. The average Attainment 8 score was 42.1, compared to the England average of 45.9. This places the school in the national lower band for raw attainment, a typical profile for Kent high schools (non-selectives) where the highest attainers have been skimmed by grammars.
However, progress tells a stronger story. The Progress 8 score of -0.04 indicates that students make progress broadly in line with the national average from their starting points.
Ranked 2875th in England and 9th in Dartford for GCSE outcomes (FindMySchool ranking), DSTC sits in the lower tier nationally for raw grades but performs a vital role locally. Crucially, 7.3% of pupils achieved a Grade 5 or above in the English Baccalaureate (EBacc), reflecting a curriculum that balances academic cores with vocational options.
England ranks and key metrics (where available)
A-Level A*-B
20.91%
% of students achieving grades A*-B
GCSE 9–7
—
% of students achieving grades 9-7
The curriculum is designed to be accessible but aspirational. In Key Stage 3, students follow a broad programme with discrete sciences. The "Science & Technology" specialism comes alive in the facilities, which include dedicated ICT suites and well-equipped laboratories that are heavily used.
Teaching quality is rated Good by Ofsted (2022). Inspectors noted that leaders have designed an ambitious curriculum, though consistency in delivery can vary. The school is part of the Dartford Area Schools Consortium (DAS), which allows for shared expertise and resources, particularly at post-16 level.
Quality of Education
N/A
Behaviour & Attitudes
N/A
Personal Development
N/A
Leadership & Management
Good
Progression data is solid. In 2024, 54% of leavers moved on to university, a respectable figure for a non-selective sixth form. A further 25% entered employment, and 7% began apprenticeships, reflecting the school's strong careers advice and links with local industry.
Post-16 destinations are diverse. While some students head to Russell Group universities, many pursue vocational pathways or specific technical training, aligning with the school's technology heritage.
Admission is through the Kent County Council (KCC) coordinated scheme. Despite being non-selective, DSTC is popular. In the last cycle, the school received 510 applications for approximately 144 places, resulting in a subscription ratio of over 3.5 applications per place.
Places are allocated primarily by distance from the school, after priority for looked-after children and siblings. The school is a common choice for families in the Heath, West Hill, and Joydens Wood areas. The "Science & Technology" branding often attracts parents looking for a modern focus rather than a traditional humanities-heavy approach.
Applications
510
Total received
Places Offered
144
Subscription Rate
3.5x
Apps per place
The pastoral system is a clear strength. The school operates a House system which fosters competition and belonging. Pastoral Support Managers (non-teaching staff) are available throughout the day to handle issues, ensuring teachers can focus on the classroom.
Ofsted has highlighted the "caring" nature of the school, noting that students feel safe and that bullying is rare and dealt with effectively. The smaller cohort size allows for a personalised approach to wellbeing that larger comprehensives struggle to match.
The extracurricular offer leans heavily into the school's specialism.
The STEM Club is a flagship activity, often participating in national challenges like the UK Maths Challenge and science fairs.
The annual school production and Dance Showcase are major calendar events, utilising the school's performance spaces.
Netball and athletics are popular, with teams competing in district leagues.
Trips are frequent, ranging from theatre visits in London to geography field trips and overseas residential visits.
This is a state school with no tuition fees. Parents are expected to fund the uniform, which includes a specific blazer and PE kit, and voluntary contributions are requested for trips and some practical subjects. The school participates in the Pupil Premium scheme to support eligible families with these costs.
State-funded school (families may still pay for uniforms, trips, and optional activities).
The school day typically runs from 8:30am to 3:00pm. Located on Heath Lane, the school is well-served by local bus routes (Fastrack B and local 477), making it accessible from Dartford town centre and Wilmington. There is no on-site parking for parents; drop-off is usually in surrounding residential roads, which can be congested.
Dartford Science & Technology College acts as a vital counterbalance to the local grammar system, proving that a non-selective education can still be ambitious and STEM-focused. It offers a nurturing, "small school" environment where girls grow in confidence. Best suited to girls who enjoy practical and technical learning and will thrive in a supportive rather than high-pressure environment. The main challenge is securing a place, given the high number of applications.
Yes. The school was rated Good by Ofsted in March 2022 (Short inspection) and February 2017 (Full inspection). Inspectors praised the ambitious curriculum and the safe, caring environment.
Applications for Year 7 are made via the Kent County Council (KCC) Secondary Common Application Form (SCAF). The deadline is typically 31 October for entry the following September.
The school does not have a fixed catchment map. Places are allocated by distance from the school. Because popularity varies annually, the "last distance offered" changes each year, but families living in Dartford and Wilmington are typically well-placed. Distances vary annually based on applicant distribution; proximity provides priority but does not guarantee a place.
No. DSTC is a non-selective high school. It does not use the Kent Test (11-plus) for admission. It caters to students of all abilities, particularly those who did not take or pass the grammar school selection tests.
The Sixth Form offers a range of A-levels and BTEC Level 3 qualifications. As part of the Dartford Area Schools Consortium, students may also access subjects taught at partner schools, broadening the available options.
Get in touch with the school directly
Disclaimer
Information on this page is compiled, analysed, and processed from publicly available sources including the Department for Education (DfE), Ofsted, the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI), the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge, Freedom of Information (FOI) requests, and official school websites.
Our rankings, metrics, and assessments are derived from this data using our own methodologies and represent our independent analysis rather than official standings.
While we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee that all information is current, complete, or error-free. Data may change without notice, and schools and/or local authorities should be contacted directly to verify any details before making decisions.
FindMySchool does not endorse any particular school, and rankings reflect specific metrics rather than overall quality.
To the fullest extent permitted by law, we accept no liability for any loss or damage arising from reliance on information provided. If you believe any information is inaccurate, please contact us.
