Non-Selective Secondary Schools on Kent coast?

[BrendaHope]

We’re considering relocating to the Kent Coast for a more relaxed way of life (access to coast, countryside, etc).

But, we’d be leaving a part of London where there are good secondary schools. We have two children (years 6 and 2 of primary).

Are there any good non-selective secondary schools on the Kent coast? Grammar schools are not a viable option.

Any other feedback from those who have moved to the Kent Coast would also be gratefully received. Thank you!

To be honest, most non selective secondary schools in Kent aren't great. Its a real problem.

Thanks@ChewyBiscuits that's what I suspected!

There's no economy in the Kent Coast. Locals are priced out of the area by Londoners moving out and the only people left are those that get significant help from the government and don't work. Walk around and you'll see most places are run down and full of violent people, with no aspirations or hope in life. Tourism industry not enough to keep these towns going and hence the bulk of children in these catchment areas have social issues. Big county lines problems. Some towns better than others but places like Sandwich, Deal and Folkestone lose or downsize their big employers (SAGA, Pfizer) and lose the children of working class professionals and their spaces are filled by the children of the above.

This isn't classist. These towns have not been possible for the working class for a long time. The mix is now overwhelming unworking class and a few London money types.

But since you asked.
Broadstairs, deal and sandwich probably the best of the bunch.
Margate and Ramsgate most stabby.
Folkestone and Herne Bay seem to fluctuate between the two.

Thanks for the honest feedback@SpoonfulofArsnicMakesTheMedicineGoDown That's food for thought.

Though I would say it depends on your child and what you want from a school.

I have two daughters, one is in year 9 and the other year 7 at a small non selective on the kent coast which has a "good" ofsted rating.
It's a nice area and there doesn't seem to be any problems with bullying. I have no concerns for my childrens safety there. However, the teachers don't care enough to encourage, and the school sometimes doesn't enforce its' own rules which is frustrating!

My yr9 is intelligent and in top sets but doesnt have much motivation and will do the bare minimum she can get away with. The school don't care and don't push/encourage her at all. (I do as much as I can but its hard when the teachers have no problem with her lack of effort, my daughter then feels like its okay).

My yr 7 is not as academic - average - but always tries her best and is eager to please. The school is fine for her, she'll thrive wherever she is.

So I would say, if your children are self motivated and/or not academic, and you want a school where they will be safe and happy, it can work.

We live semi rurally,15-20 minutes from the coast in a lovely area and feel we have the best of it. I would not like to live right in the coastal towns.

Also, sorry but I disagree with pp about Deal being one of the better areas!

Could you find a family who would enjoy weekends in London while you stay in their house near the sea and the countryside? There are agencies that arrange houseswaps. If you could find the right family it would be fun for everyone.

Deal may have it's slightly ropey areas, but compared to many other areas of Kent coast, it is very much one of the better areas!

Well yes that's true! I was mainly thinking of the secondary schools when I said that.

True! Because there are such excellent Grammar schools nearby, I believe the non-selective secondary schools are totally forgotten in that area. Massive issue with those that can paying for huge amounts of tutoring for their kids to get into the grammars and the rest being basically shoved to one side and forgotten.

I live on the Kent Coast and many children travel inland to Canterbury for secondary schools. So depending on where you are going to be based, that might be an option for you.