A Homemovers Guide to Schools in Gravesend & Northfleet (2025 Edition)
Thinking of moving to the area? Here’s what you need to know about local education options.
As the summer holidays approach, many families begin to consider their next move – both literally and figuratively. Whether you're relocating for work, upsizing for growing children, or simply looking for a fresh start, finding the right school is often a top priority.
Gravesend and Northfleet, nestled in North Kent and within easy reach of London, boast a wide range of excellent educational options – from highly-rated primaries to selective grammar schools and specialist institutions.
📚 Primary Schools in Gravesend & Northfleet
The area is home to a strong selection of primary schools, many of which are rated “Good” or “Outstanding” by Ofsted. Here are a few standouts:
- Painters Ash Primary School (Gravesend) – A well-regarded school known for its strong community feel and good results.
- St Joseph's Catholic Primary School (Northfleet) – A popular choice for families seeking a faith-based education, consistently rated highly by Ofsted.
- Whitehill Primary School (Gravesend) – A large primary with impressive facilities and a reputation for supporting individual pupil progress.
- Shears Green Infant and Junior Schools – These neighbouring schools have excellent reputations and are located in a popular residential part of Gravesend.
🏫 Secondary & Grammar Schools
Secondary education in the area offers both non-selective and selective (grammar) options. Kent is one of the few counties still operating a grammar school system, so the 11+ exam can play a key role in secondary admissions.
Grammar Schools:
- Gravesend Grammar School (boys) – A long-established selective school with an excellent academic track record.
- Mayfield Grammar School (girls) – Equally high-performing, Mayfield offers a rigorous academic environment and is heavily oversubscribed.
Non-Selective Schools:
- Northfleet School for Girls – A caring, inclusive school with modern facilities and a strong arts programme.
- Northfleet Technology College (NTC) – A forward-thinking boys’ school with a focus on STEM and digital learning.
- St John’s Catholic Comprehensive – A mixed secondary school with good pastoral care and improving academic outcomes.
- Thamesview School – Known for its supportive environment and vocational pathways for students.
🌟 Specialist & Alternative Education Options
If your child has additional needs or would benefit from a more specialised setting, there are several excellent options nearby:
- Ifield School (Gravesend) – A specialist school catering for children and young adults aged 4-19 with profound, severe, and complex learning needs.
- Rowhill School (Wrotham Road, Northfleet) – A pupil referral unit and special school supporting children with behavioural, emotional, and social needs.
- Aspire Academy – Based in Sittingbourne but serving a wider area, this school supports children with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) difficulties.
🏡 Moving for Schools: What to Consider
If you’re thinking about moving to Gravesend or Northfleet for school catchment reasons, here are a few practical tips:
- Check catchment boundaries: These can change yearly and vary between schools. Always confirm with the local authority or the school directly.
- Visit the schools: Many offer open days in September/October. These are a great way to get a feel for the ethos and environment.
- Get advice early: School applications for primary and secondary places typically close in January, so it’s wise to plan ahead during the summer.
✅ Why Gravesend & Northfleet?
Besides great schools, the area offers excellent transport links to London via High-Speed rail, stunning countryside, a vibrant mix of cultures, and affordable family homes compared to London and the West Kent towns.
At M&M Estate and Letting Agents, we regularly help families relocate to the area and understand the importance of school choices in the decision-making process. We can advise on homes within the right catchment areas, and help you plan your move to line up with school application windows.
📞 Thinking of Moving for Schools? Let’s Talk.
We’d be happy to help you find the perfect family home close to the best local schools. Contact us today to book a viewing or request a custom school catchment property list.
💬 Sarah 💼
📞 Phone: 01474 321957
📧 Email: Sarah@mandmprop.co.uk