19 November 2025
Newsdesk
Sir Mick Jagger made a surprise visit to his old school, Dartford Grammar in Kent, and the adjacent Mick Jagger Centre, which is currently celebrating its 25th Anniversary.
The celebrated Rolling Stones frontman spent time touring the arts venue he opened in 2000, which Headmaster Julian Metcalf called a "very special and the icing on the cake" moment for the anniversary celebrations.
The Mick Jagger Centre has flourished over the last quarter-century, providing recording and video studios, rehearsal rooms, and gallery spaces for students. It also serves as a thriving hub for the local community, hosting theatre and music concerts, and is home to both The Dartford Music School and The Dartford Symphony Orchestra.
A key focus of Jagger's visit was the 'Red Rooster' project, which he personally funds. Launched in 2003, the initiative delivers weekly music tuition to over 1,280 local children. During the impromptu visit, students from the program gave a short performance of their musical talents. Jagger chatted with them, the teaching staff, and the headmaster before being given a guided tour of the facility.
Always a keen sportsman—having played basketball during his school days—Jagger was also delighted to present a trophy to the current Dartford Grammar Basketball Team.
Michael Philip Jagger was born and raised in Dartford, and he continues to maintain a connection with the town where he formed his first band with local friend Keith Richards. Jagger views the Mick Jagger Centre as an essential facility for the arts. His younger brother, Chris Jagger, who also has a career in music, is scheduled to perform at the Centre later today.
