Kent Schools west malling

[Franinkent]

I know it’s a little unhinged to be posting this as it’s so far away but it’s really nagging at me! We’re looking to move to Kent and find an area to settle / really build a community long long term after moving around all over the place (& world!).

My DC is only 1 but I don’t want to find myself needing to move in 10 years for schools

We are looking for areas that are within a 45/50 minute driving commute to Canary Wharf (DH works shifts) and have seen a lovely home in West Malling. Also open to other areas but can’t afford Sevenoaks.

Is West Malling in any of the grammar schools catchment areas? Is there anything to be aware of for primary or secondary in general?

thank you so much in advance to anyone who gives me any insight !

I don’t know the area to advise on schools, but as a former Londoner I wouldn’t be looking to drive into London om a regular basis. Google suggests West Malling to Canary Wharf by car is 46 mins at this time of night, so I imagine in the daytime it would be a lot longer.

Google suggests that West Malling is in the catchment for a number of Kent grammar schools.

I do think you are very wise to consider secondary schools with a child, even as young as yours. But another thing to think about wrt grammar schools is this – what would happen if your DC didn’t get a place? People who are fans of grammar schools sometimes are less keen when that happens. I wouldn't personally live in a grammar area (and speaking as someone who went to one) for that reason.