APPLYING FOR A PRIMARY SCHOOL PLACE IN KENT –WHAT PARENTS NEED TO KNOW FOR SEPTEMBER 2026
For many Dartford families, the move from nursery to primary school feels like a huge milestone. If your child is currently enjoying their final year in an Early Years setting, it’s time to start preparing for their next adventure: starting school in September 2026.
Whether this is your first experience of school admissions or you’ve been through it before, understanding how the process works in Kent can make things much smoother. Here’s a clear guide to help you plan ahead and apply with confidence.
Who Needs to Apply?
If your child was born between 1 September 2021 and 31 August 2022, you’ll need to apply for a Reception place to start school in September 2026. Every child must have an application, even if they already attend a nursery attached to a primary school; attendance at a linked nursery does not guarantee a school place.
Key Dates for Kent Primary School Admissions
• Tuesday 5 November 2025 – Applications open
• Wednesday 15 January 2026 – Applications close
• Thursday 16 April 2026 – National Offer Day It’s important to apply before the January deadline, as late applications are less likely to secure a place at your preferred school.
How to Apply
Applications are made online through the Kent County Council website.
You’ll need to:
1. Create or log in to your Kent Admissions Account.
2. List up to three schools in order of preference.
3. Submit your application and keep the confirmation email as proof.
You can also apply for schools outside Kent, but all applications must be submitted through the Kent system.
Choosing the Right School
When choosing a school, think about what will best suit your child. There’s no single ‘best’ school- each has its own character and strengths. Consider:
• The school’s ethos and approach to learning.
• Location and how easy it is to get there.
• The latest Ofsted report.
• How the school’s atmosphere and facilities match your child’s personality and interests.
Whenever possible, attend open days to meet staff and see classrooms in action. The right fit often becomes clear once you’ve visited.
How Schools Allocate Places
If there are more applicants than spaces, schools usually offer places based on these criteria:
1. Looked After or previously looked after children.
2. Siblings already at the school.
3.Health, social, or special access needs supported by professional evidence.
4. Children of staff, where applicable.
5. Proximity to the school, measured in a straight line from your home.
Some schools, such as faith schools, may also require a Supplementary Information Form (SIF) or evidence of church attendance , so check each school’s website carefully.
Need Help or Advice?
If you’re unsure about any part of the process, contact Kent County Council Admissions, or speak to your child’s nursery or early years provider for guidance.
Final Thoughts
Starting school is a big step, but also a wonderful one. Wherever your child goes, the curiosity, confidence, and resilience they’ve built in their early years will help them thrive. With a little preparation (and a timely application!) you can look forward to this exciting new chapter with confidence.
For more advice and tips relating to Early Years development and parenting, visit katiebkids.co.uk
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North Kent Mind is a charity with a mission to support members of the community who find themselves facing mental health challenges. At North Kent Mind, we offer a range of services aimed at supporting our local communities in the North Kent area including Dartford, Gravesham, Swanley and Medway
Amongst other support available, our services include the following:
- Counselling and Therapy
- S.U.N - Service User Network
- Adult Support Services
- Children and Young Persons
- Wellbeing services
- Money Guidance
- Employment Support
- Housing Services
- Crisis Support
- Peer Support
If you are interested in volunteering with us then you can find a volunteer application form on our website, or please email: wendyheathcote@northkentmind.co.uk with any questions.
Don’t forget to sign up for the 2026 Dartford Half Marathon to run for North Kent Mind !
This Christmas, you can support North Kent Mind’s mission in various ways! Got a festive FUNdraising idea this season? Or do you simply want to raise awareness about a mental health challenge in your community, or amongst people closest to you? Let us know how we can support you with further information and with material aimed at helping both yourself and others face mental health difficulties together!
We encourage our local community to get in touch with us, whether you want to get involved through fundraising, or if you want to chat about available mental health services. Every year, we hold events for our local community- including our Community Open Day (held on the 28th November this year) - as we want to get to know you!
Jim Dickson MP for Dartford
From the day I was elected last July, I have been working hard in Parliament and across the local area to support our communities and to carry my Dartford constituent’s voice and priorities to Westminster.
I am here to support you, and my office is always here to help – please get in touch on jim.dickson. mp@parliament.uk for any questions, support or to sign up to my next surgery. I look forward to meeting you soon.
If you’d like to keep updated with my regular activity and find out about new events and surgeries, follow me on social media (Jim Dickson MP on X, Facebook and Instagram) or sign-up to my newsletter on the QR code.
Please always feel welcome to get in touch with me via email for any questions or if you’d like to speak with me.
By Jane Stevenson
IT BEATS THE BUS!
Going out in the car with OH is quite an illuminating experience! Firstly, he drives a serviceable, but small car, indistinguishable from many others on the island. Secondly, he is an older gentleman, no longer in the first flush of youth – although he hasn’t realised it yet. I give these details just to set the scene. When he’s driving his usually placid temperament is replaced by the ‘Fast and Furious’ approach to motoring. The trouble is, our island roads are constantly being dug up for water company repairs, Wifi cables or subsidence issues. Consequently, OH’s penchant for yelling ‘GO, GO, GO’, as he celebrates leaving yet another traffic calming zone, is often severely hampered. The sheer number of temporary traffic light systems, the constant stopping and starting, crawling anywhere in first or second gear, and frequent pull-in on the narrow roads for passing tractors raises not only his blood pressure, but his vocal decibel level too!
I usually pay little attention to all these histrionics, apart from reminding him he isn’t driving a Ford Capri – he still hankers after the sartorial elegance of Bodie and Doyle! However, it has worsened lately.
He has now added mimicry and humming to his travel repertoire! Over the past few weeks, I’ve been treated to his impressions of Richard Burton, Poirot, Edward Fox and any number of bad French accents advertising perfume! These are additional to his ‘book him Danno’ and Trump impressions. Now I’m subject to snippets of a number of TV themes, whistled or hummed quietly to himself as we drive along.
I’ve heard of in car entertainment, but it would be a blessing to change his channel now and again!
THE X FILES – ‘TRUST NO ONE’ HOUSE MD – ‘EVERYBODY LIES’
Given the upheaval at the top of the BBC recently, especially as the reason given is the doctoring of a speech by a politician known for being economical with the truth, lends a resonance to the taglines from two TV programmes.
For years, I’ve relied on the BBC to present unbiased fact in their news output, so I can form my own opinions of events nationally and worldwide. That trust has been undermined by these new allegations and the apparent admission of guilt by the BBC.
So, who can we trust to provide and honest, unbiased account of events? TV, Radio and News Journalism is all too often sensationalist, or firmly in favour of a particular political party. Historical cases of phone hacking and paying individuals for information without proper verification has left us with a sense that we cannot really trust anyone to give us just the facts. With the introduction of AI, and the manipulation of social media by any one person, company or country with a vested interest in influencing us, it is almost impossible to accept anything as exactly as it appears. It is completely understandable why our distrust of politicians, the mega rich and those hungry for power has increased so profoundly.
There seems little we can do to alleviate the power of the media. Should we ignore any news output, or just accept what is printed or produced?
I have no answers to this problem; I’ve taken a decision to stop listening to the radio or reading any newspaper. I can’t change the situation, so I’ve copped out of it. That is possibly the saddest action of all.
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As the skies over Britain turn grey and temperatures dip below comfort levels, many of us dream of sunsoaked beaches, warm breezes, and a few precious hours of Vitamin D. Fortunately, winter doesn't have to mean wool scarves and frosty mornings—just a flight away lie destinations where sunshine reigns year-round. Whether you’re craving pristine beaches, cultural exploration, or a luxury escape, here are five of the best winter-sun getaways from the UK.
1. Tenerife, Canary Islands – Sun & Adventure Close to Home
Just a 4.5-hour flight from the UK, Tenerife offers the perfect combination of winter warmth and convenience. With temperatures hovering around 20–24°C from November to February, it's ideal for both beach lovers and adventurers. The island's diverse landscape includes volcanic black-sand beaches, the otherworldly Mount Teide National Park, charming fishing villages, and upscale resorts in Costa Adeje. Tenerife is also a great choice for families, thanks to attractions like Siam Park, one of Europe’s top waterparks. Best for: quick winter sun without longhaul flights.
2. Dubai, UAE – Luxury, Beaches & World-Class Attractions
Dubai is where futuristic skyscrapers meet beachside glamour, making it a favourite for travellers seeking guaranteed sunshine with a dash of extravagance. Winter temperatures sit comfortably around 25–28°C—ideal for sunbathing on Jumeirah Beach or exploring the desert dunes. Shopping enthusiasts can indulge in the Dubai Mall, while thrill-seekers can take on activities such as skydiving over The Palm or conquering the slides at Atlantis’ Aquaventure Waterpark. With direct flights from London taking just under seven hours, Dubai offers a polished blend of sunshine and spectacle.
3. Barbados, Caribbean – Island Paradise with Laid-Back Charm
For pure escapism, few places rival Barbados. Known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and relaxed island culture, it provides everything you could want from a tropical break. Winter is peak season, with brilliant sunshine, warm evenings, and ideal
swimming conditions. Beyond the beaches, visitors can explore colonial Bridgetown, enjoy rum tastings at Mount Gay, or catch a lively Friday night fish fry in Oistins. Barbados is perfect for travellers seeking both relaxation and vibrant Caribbean culture.
4. Cape Town, South Africa – Scenic Beauty & Outdoor Adventure
If you’re dreaming of sunshine paired with culture, wine, wildlife, and jaw-dropping scenery, Cape Town is hard to beat. December to February is South Africa’s summer, meaning warm temperatures and long sunny days—ideal for hiking Table Mountain, enjoying the beaches of Camps Bay, or driving the iconic Cape Peninsula. Wine lovers can wander the vineyards of Stellenbosch, while wildlife enthusiasts can go on safari or visit Boulders Beach to see its famous penguin colony. Add the convenience of no jet-lag thanks to a similar time zone, and Cape Town becomes one of the most rewarding long-haul escapes.
5. Thailand – Tropical Beaches & Exotic Culture
For affordable luxury, warm seas, and rich cultural experiences, Thailand remains a top pick. While Bangkok buzzes with street-food markets and temples, the southern islands shine in winter with blue skies and calm waters. Phuket offers glamorous resorts and lively nightlife, while Krabi and Koh Lanta are ideal for nature lovers. If you’re seeking postcardperfect serenity, Koh Samui and Koh Tao deliver palmlined beaches and crystal-clear diving spots. Thailand combines sunshine, adventure, affordability, and world-class hospitality—all in one unforgettable trip.
When winter settles over the UK, escaping to sunnier shores is more than just a holiday—it’s a restorative dose of warmth and wanderlust. Whether you fancy long-haul adventure or a short break in the Canary Islands, there's a sunny escape to suit every budget and travel style. From all of us at Harden Holidays, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! We look forward to welcoming you in our Dartford town centre shop.
For many people, Christmas is about being with loved ones and family. It is a time for families to come together and make new memories, whether you celebrate the religious meaning of Christmas or not. However, for some, they will be facing Christmas without someone they love, whether this is for the first time or whether this is just another year that has passed by. Tuesday 2nd to Monday 8th December is National Grief week.
Dealing with Grief
Everyone deals with grief differently. There is no right or wrong way – everyone should respond to a person’s death in the way that feels right to them. Our emotional response to being bereaved is as valid as the next person’s.
Grief is not an illness. It cannot be made to go away or cured. But it does become less raw over time, although the time this takes is different for everyone. When you are grieving, it is important to be kind to yourself. Grief is an emotional response and sometimes we can swing from one emotion to another, or they can just bubble up from nowhere. This can make us feel out of control. These extreme emotions will settle over time. We can also feel other things too, such as anxiety or guilt, and some people get physical symptoms such as a hollow feeling in their stomach, tightness or heaviness in their chest or difficulty sleeping. If you are worried about any physical symptoms, please get them checked by your GP.
Grieving at Christmas
Although the focus here is on Christmas, there are a lot
of other significant dates you may find difficult. It can be helpful to plan ahead about how you would like to spend time over the festive period. You may not want to have a Christmas as usual, if it doesn’t feel right, but celebrating as normal may be a comfort to you. Perhaps consider starting a new tradition, such as a walk somewhere special, or buying a new ornament to remember your loved one by. Know it’s OK not to be OK – don’t feel guilty about the things you ‘should’ be doing. Whilst planning can help, it is also important to take each day at a time and put yourself first. If you don’t feel up to doing something, don’t feel you have to go along with it to keep others happy.
Growing with Grief
When we lose a loved one, we may feel that it is the ending in many ways. Nothing will be the same. However, although we can’t go back to how things were or who we were, we can grow into someone new, shaped by the memories and love that we have. We may start to recognise what is truly important in life, what matters to me, and change to lead a more fulfilling life. We may become more present: to fully engage with the here and now and live in the moment, rather than focussed on the past or the future. Overall, we may become more resilient and able to deal with what life throws our way. This doesn’t mean that we miss those we have lost any less, or that the pain goes away, but that you are able to feel new moments of joy, peace and comfort whilst still carrying the memories of your loved one.
How can I get help if I need it?
The Good Grief Trust (www.thegoodgrieftrust.org) has links to more than 1000 organisations that support those that are grieving. If you are struggling with grief, please reach out to one of these organisations or your GP practice for support.
Dr Julie Taylor is a GP Partner and Trainer at the Wellcome Practice and the Primary Care Medical Director for Dartford Gravesham and Swanley Health and Care Partnership.
It’s easy to assume we are savvy when it comes to fraud and scams, and expect that we’ll never be caught out and can spot a scam a mile off. Sadly, scammers are becoming increasingly more sophisticated, employing new tactics and methods to gain our trust.
Our older loved ones are particularly at risk, as scammers can seek them out. Unfamiliarity with the online world can play a part too.
If families club together and talk older loved ones through what to look out for, they can protect them from becoming victim. It all lies in knowing the signs to spot.
Types of fraud and scams to look out for:
Fraud and scams are continuously developing, so it’s important to stay alert and vigilant. Some of these can include:
1. Impersonation Scams
Scammers pretend to be trusted figures, such as family members or officials, to steal personal information or money. Always verify identities before sharing details.
2. Purchase Scams
Fake online listings trick victims into paying for nonexistent products. Research sellers and use secure payment methods to avoid losses.
3. Investment Scams
Fraudsters promote fake investment opportunities with promises of high returns. Always consult a financial advisor before investing.
4. Romance Scams
Scammers build online relationships and ask for money for emergencies. Be cautious of anyone you haven’t met in person who requests funds.
5. Doorstep Scams
Fraudsters visit homes pretending to be tradespeople or charity workers. Verify their identity before engaging and don’t feel pressured.
6. Courier Fraud
Scammers claim to be from banks or police and ask for cash withdrawals, often sending a courier to collect it. Legitimate organisations won’t request cash.
How Can You Protect Yourself from Fraud and Scams?
1. Avoid Disclosing Security Details
Never share personal information like passwords or bank details over the phone or online.
2. Check Authenticity
Be wary of unsolicited emails or messages; verify the sender’s identity before responding.
3. Contact Organisations Directly
Use official contact information to confirm any suspicious communications. If somebody rings you and you have doubts over whether they are who they say they are, call them back using the organisation’s official phone number. Use another phone if possible in case they have tapped into and have control over your phone.
4. Challenge Unexpected Requests
Trust your instincts—if something seems off, verify before acting.
5. Report Scams
Report any suspicious activity to local authorities or organisations like Action Fraud to help protect others. You can do so here: https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/
Sadly, many scams go unreported due to the victim’s fear of embarrassment. But by being open and honest about scams with your older loved ones, they will feel more compelled to check with you if they ever have any suspicions.
Home Instead Dartford runs FREE scam awareness sessions for the community. Please contact c.uppenkamp@dartford.homeinstead.co.uk or via 01322 923750 if you would like to book one for your group, church, charity, organisation, club or any other venue.
1. African country (6)
4. ------ cake (6)
8. Spout (6)
10. Steal small quantities (6)
11. Nimble (5)
12. West London borough (6)
14. Throw from a horse (6)
16. Terminates (4)
17. Projecting knob (4)
19. In case (4)
22. Military vehicle (4)
26. Person who keeps the marks in a game (6)
27. Provoke fury (6)
28. Elector (5)
29. Made a reservation (6)
30. Din (6)
31. Steering apparatus (6)
32. Posture (6)
1. Crazier, more amusing (6)
2. Gag (6)
3. Away from the sea (6)
5. Customer (6)
6. Hoisted (6)
7. Layers of rock (6)
9. Ova (4)
10. In addition to (4)
13. Bury (5)
15. First-rate (5)
18. Weather map line (6)
19. Scottish loch (6)
20. Harsh (6)
21. Stepped (4)
22. Deride (4)
23. Engrossed (6)
24. Gingerbread (6)
25. Temperament (6)
NONAGRAM
How many words of four letters or more can you make from this Nonagram? Each word must use the central letter, and each letter may be used only once. At least one word using all nine letters can be found. Guidelines:
15 Good; 17 Very Good; 20 Excellent.
Any word found in the Concise Oxford English Dictionary is eligible with the following exceptions: proper nouns; plural nouns, pronouns and possessives; third person singular verbs; hyphenated words; contractions and abbreviations; vulgar slang words; variant spellings of the same word (where another variant is also eligible).
SUDOKU
Starspot Crossword Across – 1 Zambia; 4 Eccles; 8 Nozzle; 10 Pilfer; 11 Agile; 12 Ealing; 14 Unseat; 16 Ends; 17 Stud; 19 Lest; 22 Jeep; 26 Scorer; 27 Enrage; 28 Voter; 29 Booked; 30 Racket; 31 Rudder; 23 Stance. Down – 1 Zanier; 2 Muzzle; 3 Inland; 5 Client; 6 Lifted; 7 Strata; 9 Eggs; 10 Plus; 13 Inter; 15 Super; 18 Isobar; 19 Lomond; 20 Severe; 21 Trod; 22 Jeer; 23 Enrapt; 24 Parkin; 25 Mettle. Star Name: JOAN COLLINS 2 3
Spell out a 15-letter word or phrase by moving from one chamber to another. You may only enter each chamber once and may only proceed through openings in the walls. The first letter may appear in any of the chambers.
distal; distil; gait; gaslit; gild; gilt; gist; glia; laid; list; litas; said; sail; sati; sigil; sild; silt; slid; slit; staid; tail; tidal.
National Treasure Linda Robson, best known for her time on our small screens in Birds of a Feather and Loose Women, is pulling on her sequinned frock and getting ready to take on her role as Councillor Chigwell in family pantomime adventure Aladdin at the Orchard West Theatre in Dartford this year.
We caught up with her to find out more about what she’s looking forward to this season.
You’re back in panto this Christmas?
I haven’t done one for a few years, and it was actually my kids who talked me into it. They said, “Mum, we really want to see you in panto again!” So I thought, why not? I really love being in panto. So, I’m really looking forward to it.
And you’ll be performing in Aladdin at the Orchard West, have you ever played Dartford before? I don’t think so! Unless we took Birds of a Feather there on tour, we went everywhere with that show so it’s a bit of a blur. I remember Glasgow as someone brought me a deep-fried Mars Bar at the stage door! (Surprisingly, it was really nice.. a bit like a pancake!)
But Dartford’s only about an hour away from home for me so my whole family’s coming along. My sisters, my kids, my grandkids. They’ll all be in the audience at
some point.
You’ve done quite a few pantomimes over the years but do you remember your very first?
Yes! At the Hackney Empire about 33 years ago. I was six months pregnant. I was supposed to play Alice Fitzwarren, but ended up being the Fairy Godmother because I was so pregnant! Pauline Quirke played King Rat and said afterwards, “Never again – it’s too hard!” We were doing three shows a day back then. But I loved it, and I still go to Hackney Empire every year with my grandkids.
Do you have a favourite panto?
Honestly, I love them all, every panto has its own magic. Aladdin is a brilliant story full of adventure. This time I’m playing Jasmine’s mum. I’ve met my stage daughter already, she’s absolutely lovely and has a fantastic voice. I’m hoping I won’t have too much singing to do though… nobody needs to hear that! Although I might have a little ‘what’ll I do’ singing moment!
It’s funny how that song from Birds of Feather has really stuck. People still stop me in the supermarket and sing it to me. People of all ages know it because it was a show for everyone, you could watch it as a kid, a parent, or a grandparent. Which is very like panto!
Speaking of your role on TV, do you feel more at home on TV or on stage?
I’m more comfortable on TV, just because I’ve been doing it since I was about 10 years old. But I love theatre too. Things go wrong on stage, but you just get on with it especially in panto. It’s all part of the fun, and you get such a strong sense of everyone working together in a panto
company which is a bit different from TV and I really love that.
What do you think makes panto so special for families at Christmas?
As I mentioned before I think it’s just that it’s got something for everyone. There are jokes for the grownups, magic for the little ones, songs, silliness and of course all the flashing wands and sweeties and all of that fun Christmassy stuff. The audience interaction is so fun. I don’t think there’s anything else quite like it!
And finally, why do you think families should come to Dartford’s Aladdin this year?
Because it’s going to be brilliant! The theatre is lovely as are the team here, so you’ll be well looked after. The cast are amazing, we’ve got comedians, singers, dancers, magicians, West End stars and of course me – ‘National Treasure’ Linda Robson! But even better you get all of that without the West End prices. It’s proper family entertainment, and we’ll all have a proper laugh together.
Don’t miss Linda Robson in Aladdin at the Orchard West this Christmas to make magical memories with the perfect family treat. Tickets are on sale now at orchardwest.com
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