A Kent grammar school has been named as one of the best in the UK.

The Sunday Times Parent Power Guide releases annual rankings of the top state, selective, comprehensive and primary schools.

Dartford Grammar in West Hill, Dartford, was named the state secondary school of the year for the south east, pipping Tonbridge Grammar School.

Nationally, the Dartford-based school, which has more than 1,500 pupils, is ranked 14th.

The Judd School, in Tonbridge, also made the region’s top 10 state schools, while the Sevenoaks School was the eighth-best-ranked independent school in the south east.

Recognised as the definitive ranking of the UK’s top primary and secondary state and independent schools, this guide is often used as a resource for parents seeking the very best in education for their children.

In the guide, 1,600 schools can be searched by name, local authority, town and postcode, allowing families to find the perfect school in their area.

Dartford Grammar head teacher Julian Metcalf said: “I am delighted that the hard work of students and teachers is recognised by the Parent Power guide. The high academic standards achieved are very much enhanced by the rich and varied programme of trips and visits that adds to our students’ education, along with a broad and varied co-curricular programme.

“Our IB curriculum in particular recognises that education should be enriching, student-focused and developing young people to be the balanced global citizens of tomorrow. I offer my congratulations to everyone who plays a part in this.”

Last year, Tonbridge Grammar School was named the best in the country for the International Baccalaureate.

Parent Power editor Helen Davies said: “The educational landscape is challenging – teacher shortages, rising student mental health issues and special educational needs and the Vat rise – but there is also so much to celebrate from the hard work of passionate and committed teachers who are finding ever more innovative and impactful ways to boost their students and give them the very best start in life.

“As well as celebrating the academic excellence of the top schools it is fantastic to see how they are shaping their students to be ready for the 21st century.”