St Edmund's Catholic School
Old Charlton Road, Old Charlton Road, Dover, CT16 2QB
Pupils
690
Ages
11 to 16
Gender
Mixed

Age range
11 to 16
Gender
Mixed
Pupils
690
Headteacher
Mrs Grainne Parsons
Type
Secondary
Ofsted
Good
Faith
Roman Catholic
Local authority
Kent
Academy
Yes
About St Edmund's Catholic School
St Edmund’s Catholic School is a welcoming, successful and vibrant learning community where every student is valued, supported and encouraged to achieve their full potential. Rated Good in all categories by Ofsted, we are committed to providing an outstanding educational experience that combines academic excellence with exceptional pastoral care.
As a smaller secondary school, with approximately 140 students in each year group, we are able to foster a strong sense of community and ensure that every student is known as an individual. We place great importance on nurturing each learner's personal, social and academic development, recognising that high-quality teaching and strong pastoral support are fundamental to success.
Our Catholic faith underpins all aspects of school life and inspires us to live out the Gospel values of love, equality, justice, reconciliation, mutual respect and service. We have high expectations for all students and are dedicated to identifying and developing their unique talents while supporting them to achieve their academic aspirations.
At St Edmund’s, we pride ourselves on being a school family where positive relationships, mutual respect and a commitment to learning create an environment in which students feel safe, supported and confident. We encourage our young people to embrace the many opportunities available to them, both within and beyond the classroom, through a broad range of enrichment and extracurricular activities.
As a proud member of the Kent Catholic Schools' Partnership (KCSP), we benefit from a collaborative network of schools that provides enhanced opportunities for students and staff alike, supporting innovation, professional development and the sharing of best practice across the Trust.
We are very proud to have been awarded Trauma-Informed School Status in June 2026, becoming one of only two secondary schools in England to achieve this recognition.
Through our faith, values and commitment to excellence, St Edmund’s Catholic School provides an environment where students can flourish academically, spiritually and personally, preparing them to make a positive contribution to society and succeed in their future endeavours. The headteacher is Mrs Grainne Parsons.
Inspection at a glance
Ofsted rated St Edmund's Catholic School Good at its inspection on 12 July 2022. The full inspection report is linked from this page so you can read the inspectors' own words.
St Edmund's Catholic School contact details and location
St Edmund's Catholic School is at Old Charlton Road, Dover, Kent, CT16 2QB. The school office can be reached on 01304 201551. A map, directions and the school's own website link are on this page.
Ofsted inspection
Overall effectiveness
Last inspection: 12/07/2022
Quality of Education
How well pupils are taught and what they learn
Behaviour and Attitudes
How pupils behave and their attitude to learning
Personal Development
Support for pupils' wider growth and wellbeing
Leadership and Management
How well the school is run
St Edmund's Catholic School admissions and catchment area
This is an independent school
https://www.st-edmunds.com/Key-Info/Admissions/
Official links
Applications go direct to the school - you do not apply through your local council.
How to apply
1. Book a visit or open day
Most independent schools want you to visit before you apply - open days and private tours are both usually offered.
2. Register with the school
Complete the school's registration form and pay the registration fee. Some schools have a waiting list a year or more ahead.
3. Assessment / taster day
Depending on age, this can be an informal assessment, a taster day in class, or a formal entrance test with an interview.
4. Offer and deposit
The school makes an offer directly. A deposit secures the place; check the terms and notice period carefully.
5. Bursaries & scholarships
Ask about means-tested bursaries and scholarships. Deadlines are often earlier than main entry.
Didn't get a place? Ask about waiting lists
Independent schools manage their own admissions. If you are not offered a place at St Edmund's Catholic School, ask about the waiting list and whether a late application is possible.
St Edmund's Catholic School results and attendance
KS2 results
N/A
A-Level results
Not published
Attendance
Free school meals
SEND support at St Edmund's Catholic School
SEND setting
Mainstream school
For full details, visit the school's SEND information page.
Wraparound care and nursery at St Edmund's Catholic School
Nursery
No
Breakfast club
Yes
After-school club
Please check with the school
St Edmund's Catholic School term dates: Kent standard term dates for 2026/27
These are Kent County Council's standard term dates. Your school may use different dates and INSET days, so check the school's website before making plans.
Autumn 1 · 2026
1 Sep-23 Oct
Autumn 2 · 2026
2 Nov-18 Dec
Spring 1 · 2027
4 Jan-12 Feb
Spring 2 · 2027
22 Feb-25 Mar
Summer 1 · 2027
12 Apr-28 May
Summer 2 · 2027
7 Jun-21 Jul
St Edmund's Catholic School: frequently asked questions
How do I apply for a place at St Edmund's Catholic School?
Apply through Kent on the secondary common application form by 31 October, naming St Edmund's Catholic School as one of your preferences. Offers are made on National Offer Day on 1 March.
What is St Edmund's Catholic School's Ofsted rating?
Ofsted rated St Edmund's Catholic School Good at its inspection on 12 July 2022. You can open the full report from the inspection section of this page.
What SEND support does St Edmund's Catholic School offer?
St Edmund's Catholic School is recorded as a mainstream school. The school's SEN information report has the current detail and is linked in the SEND section of this page.
What are St Edmund's Catholic School's term dates and INSET days?
St Edmund's Catholic School follows the standard Kent pattern for 2026/27, set out term by term on this page. INSET days are set by the school itself, so confirm them on the school's own calendar.
Where is St Edmund's Catholic School and how do I contact the school?
St Edmund's Catholic School is at Old Charlton Road, Dover, Kent, CT16 2QB. The office number is 01304 201551. A map and directions are on this page.
How big is St Edmund's Catholic School and what ages does it take?
St Edmund's Catholic School has around 690 pupils on roll and covers ages 11 to 16.
About this information. Compiled from published sources including the Department for Education, Ofsted and the school's own website. Last reviewed and updated Autumn 2026.
Report an update →Schools near St Edmund's Catholic School
The closest schools to CT16 2QB, measured from each school's own location.
Dover · Grammar · 0.2 miles
Dover Grammar School for Girls
Dover · Independent · 0.6 miles
Dover College

Dover · Secondary · 0.9 miles
Duke of York's Royal Military School

Dover · Grammar · 0.9 miles
Dover Grammar School for Boys
Dover · Secondary · 1.0 miles
Dover Christ Church Academy
Dover · Secondary · 1.0 miles
Astor College
Help us keep this page accurate
Spotted something wrong?
Tell us what needs updating on St Edmund's Catholic School and we'll review it before the page changes.Last updated Autumn 2026.