Best 3 Secondary schools in Ashford – comparison

Comparison of secondary schools: Highworth Grammar School (Secondary) in Ashford; The Norton Knatchbull School (Secondary) in Ashford; The North School (Secondary) in Ashford — covering Ofsted outcomes, size, FSM%, governance, capacity & more.

At a glance

This page compares Highworth Grammar School, The Norton Knatchbull School and The North School. They are secondary phase and academy converter type located around Ashford, Kent. The strongest headline Ofsted judgement here is 1 (Highworth Grammar School), published Jul 2013. The lowest is 2 (The Norton Knatchbull School), published Jan 2024. The most recent inspection on record is for The Norton Knatchbull School (Jan 2024). average roll around ≈ 1,350, combined total ≈ 4,100, typical FSM 15–20%, range 5–10%–30–35%; all within the Swale Academies Trust trust.

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Phase / Type
Secondary • Academy converter
Location
Ashford
Kent
TN24 8UD
Ofsted
1 5 Jul 2013
Pupils
≈ 1,550 🔒 Exact value
FSM %
5–10% 🔒 Exact %
Trust / LA
Kent (886)
Website
www.highworth.kent.sch.uk
Telephone
01233624910
Phase / Type
Secondary • Academy converter
Location
Ashford
Kent
TN24 0QJ
Ofsted
2 29 Jan 2024
Pupils
≈ 1,300 🔒 Exact value
FSM %
5–10% 🔒 Exact %
Trust / LA
Kent (886)
Website
www.nks.kent.sch.uk
Telephone
01233620045
Phase / Type
Secondary • Academy converter
Location
Ashford
Kent
TN24 8AL
Ofsted
2 19 Oct 2017
Pupils
≈ 1,250 🔒 Exact value
FSM %
30–35% 🔒 Exact %
Trust / LA
Swale Academies Trust
Website
www.thenorthschool.org.uk
Telephone
01233614600
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Map of compared schools

How are these comparisons built?
We line up public school data side-by-side. Ofsted “headline” judgement is shown with the publication date when available. Exact pupil counts and precise FSM% are available to Pro users; everyone sees rounded values.
What if a school has a recent ungraded visit?
Ungraded visits (Section 8) check whether the previous graded judgement still stands, but do not replace it. We keep the latest graded judgement as the headline until a new graded inspection is published.
Why can’t I see exact numbers?
To keep the service sustainable, we show approximate pupils and bucketed FSM% to free users. Upgrade to AllSchools Pro to unlock precise figures and exports.
How should I choose a school?
Start with the most recent graded Ofsted judgement, then check whether it aligns with your child’s needs. Look at distance and travel, typical class sizes (roll vs capacity), and the school’s admissions policy. Speak to the school, arrange a visit, and ask about pastoral support and enrichment.
What should I look for when comparing schools?
Compare headline Ofsted and publication dates for recency; check FSM% and local context; scan capacity utilisation (under, near, or over capacity); and review trust/local authority for governance. If available, read the official Ofsted report for curriculum and safeguarding detail.
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