Best Grammar Schools In UK – A Comprehensive Guide For 2024
Welcome to our comprehensive guide to the best grammar schools in the UK for the year 2024. In this article, we will explore the top-performing grammar schools across the country, providing you with valuable insights to help you make informed decisions about your child’s education. Whether you are seeking an academically rigorous environment, a nurturing atmosphere, or a school with a specific focus, our guide will showcase the finest institutions that meet your criteria.
Table of Contents
What is a Grammar School?
A grammar school is a type of secondary school that admits students based on their academic ability. These schools have a long-standing tradition and are known for providing a more academically focused education. Grammar schools select their students through an entrance examination, often taken in the year before students would start secondary education. The aim is to admit students who demonstrate high academic potential. Once admitted, students receive a comprehensive education that typically emphasises traditional academic subjects such as mathematics, sciences, and humanities.
Grammar schools are usually publicly funded and do not charge tuition fees, making them accessible to students from various backgrounds. Grammar schools in the UK have faced its fair share of criticism. Many believe that very few children from low-income backgrounds get a spot in these institutions. Nevertheless, schools are continually reviewing their entry procedure to ensure they attract the most able children, rather than those best prepared to pass entrance exams.
UK Grammar School Admission Process
Grammar schools select their candidates based on the strength of their performance in the 11+ examination. Tests usually include some or all of mathematics, English, verbal reasoning and non-verbal reasoning. However, the exact entry requirements and competition for places vary, and they can change year on year. As no schools are permitted to interview the potential candidates and their parents, performance in this test will be the main admissions criteria.
A few schools do test for entry at 13+, and some also conduct tests at 16+. Ultimately, admissions is possible at other times if places are available and the child meets the academic criteria.
However, there are a number of students that do not receive offers every year for various reasons. If your child narrowly missed the required mark or has not performed as expected in the tests, or if they passed the test but did not receive an offer, there is still hope. You can actually challenge this decision through an appeal. Check out this step-by-step guide to learn more about the process.
Best Grammar Schools in the UK
1. Wilson's School Review
With a success rate of 4 to 1, bright pupils from 75 feeder schools work hard for their place in Wilson’s School. A total of 180 places are offered each year, where Sutton children will have a slight advantage when there is a tie break. Students will have to continue their hard work as there is no automatic entry into sixth form, although most of them do make it. Upon completion, the majority of graduates move on to prestigious universities and apprenticeships.
2. Queen Elizabeth's School, Barnet Review
Queen Elizabeth’s School, located in Barnet, United Kingdom, is a renowned grammar school with a rich history and a strong tradition of academic excellence. Founded in 1573, the school has a longstanding commitment to providing high-quality education to boys, preparing them for success in higher education and beyond.
3. The Henrietta Barnett School Review
The Henrietta Barnett School, located in Hampstead Garden Suburb, London, is a highly regarded girls’ grammar school in the United Kingdom. Established in 1911, the school is named after Henrietta Barnett, a social reformer and philanthropist, and has a longstanding reputation for academic excellence.
As a selective grammar school, The Henrietta Barnett School admits students based on academic merit. It offers a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum designed to challenge and inspire students, fostering a love for learning and critical thinking skills.
4. Pate's Grammar School Review
Pate’s Grammar School epitomises excellence in education, boasting a rich history spanning over four centuries. Its unwavering commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its top-tier performance at A Level and GCSE, alongside a vibrant culture that values engagement and participation across all disciplines. Pate’s offers students a holistic educational experience through their state-of-the-art campus, facilities, and expansive sports fields. With a strong tradition upheld while embracing innovation, Pate’s stands poised to continue its legacy of nurturing talent and curiosity, fostering lasting connections through its active alumni community. As the school looks forward to a promising future, its dedication to building on past successes signals an exciting journey ahead.
5. St Olave's and St Saviour's Grammar School Review
St Olave’s and St Saviour’s Grammar School, commonly known as St Olave’s, is a distinguished grammar school in Orpington, Greater London, United Kingdom. It is the result of a merger between St Olave’s Grammar School and St Saviour’s and St Olave’s Grammar School, bringing together two institutions with rich histories. Besides the well-known academic achievements, their sport, music, drama, DofE, clubs and societies are also very strong.
6. Colchester Royal Grammar School Review
With roots dating back to 1206 and adorned with Royal Charters from monarchs past, Colchester Royal Grammar School blends tradition with modernity, ensuring a dynamic learning environment. From its outstanding music and drama facilities to a comprehensive sports programme, CRGS offers a well-rounded education that nurtures the talents of every student. More than just academics, the school prides itself on fostering a diverse and inclusive atmosphere where students can thrive and grow into confident, well-rounded individuals. With accolades from the Telegraph and the Good Schools Guide, CRGS stands as a testament to its commitment to preparing students for bright futures. Whether you’re considering joining at 11+ or 16+, you need to experience the CRGS spirit firsthand at one of their Open Evenings and discover the magic of life at Colchester Royal Grammar School.
7. The Tiffin Girls' School Review
The Tiffin Girls’ School stands proudly as one of the premier grammar schools in the UK, located in the vibrant educational landscape of Kingston upon Thames. Renowned for its commitment to academic excellence, Tiffin Girls’ has consistently demonstrated outstanding achievements in both traditional and contemporary subjects. The school’s rich history, coupled with a forward-thinking approach to education, has established it as a beacon of scholastic brilliance. With a dedicated faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and a nurturing environment, Tiffin Girls’ School continues to shape the minds of its students, preparing them for success in their academic pursuits and beyond.
8. Reading School Review
Reading School has shaped the lives of countless young men for over 900 years! While the Year 13 students consistently achieve stellar results in A-Levels and GCSEs, they believe education transcends mere grades. It’s about fostering hope, nurturing character, and making a positive impact on society. At the heart of Reading’s ethos is a commitment to prioritising people over statistics. They strive to cultivate resilience, humility, and integrity in every student, equipping them not just for academic success, but for a life of purpose and service.
9. King Edward VI School, Stratford Review
Despite its modest size, King Edward VI School offers a vibrant and supportive environment where students are encouraged to thrive academically and beyond. Led by dedicated specialist teachers, the curriculum seamlessly blends traditional teaching methods with innovative approaches. This ensures a well-rounded education that prepares students for success in an ever-changing world. Beyond the classroom, K.E.S. also boasts an impressive array of extra-curricular activities, from sports to music and drama, providing students with ample opportunities to explore their passions and develop new skills. With state-of-the-art facilities and expert coaching, students regularly achieve success in national and international competitions, showcasing their talents on a global scale.
10. Altrincham Grammar School for Boys Review
Here in the Altrincham Grammar School for Boys, you’ll discover a community dedicated to providing an exceptional education for boys aged 11 to 18. With a focus on academic excellence alongside a rich tapestry of extracurricular activities, AGSB aims to nurture well-rounded individuals equipped with the skills to thrive in society. In addition, pastoral care is at the forefront, ensuring that every boy feels supported and valued in the friendly, family-like environment.
UK Grammar Schools Ranking
Here are the best grammar schools in the UK as we enter 2024. We also have the latest list of the best UK state schools if you’re interested.
| Rank | School | Town | A-level (% A*) | A-level (% A*/A) | GCSE (% A*/A/ 9/8/7) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Wilson’s School | Wallington | 43.9 | 82.5 | 95 |
| 2 | Queen Elizabeth’s School, Barnet | Barnet | 58.2 | 89.1 | 93.3 |
| 3 | The Henrietta Barnett School | London | 37.8 | 75.3 | 97.6 |
| 4 | Pate’s Grammar School | Cheltenham | 31.3 | 70.4 | 90.7 |
| 5 | St Olave’s Grammar School | Orpington | 42 | 77.2 | 91.4 |
| 6 | Colchester Royal Grammar School | Colchester | 35.4 | 76.8 | 85 |
| 7 | The Tiffin Girls’ School | Kingston upon Thames | 34.3 | 71.6 | 94.4 |
| 8 | Reading School | Reading | 34.4 | 73.1 | 88.3 |
| 9 | King Edward VI School, Stratford | Stratford-upon-Avon | 33 | 71.6 | 84.4 |
| 10 | Altrincham Grammar School for Girls | Altrincham | 20.7 | 59.6 | 91.2 |
| 11 | King Edward VI Grammar School, Chelmsford | Chelmsford | 26.6 | 61.2 | 87.3 |
| 12 | Chelmsford County High School for Girls | Chelmsford | 21 | 58.8 | 88.3 |
| 13 | Colyton Grammar School | Colyton | 36.7 | 65.9 | 83.3 |
| 14 | King Edward VI Camp Hill School for Boys | Birmingham | 29.7 | 64.9 | 89.3 |
| 15 | Kendrick School | Reading | 32.2 | 62.4 | 91.2 |
| 16 | Tonbridge Grammar School | Tonbridge | 23.2 | 63.9 | 78.7 |
| 17 | Lumen Christi College | Derry | 26 | 62.5 | 79.4 |
| 18 | Tiffin School | Kingston upon Thames | 28.7 | 65.2 | 81.5 |
| 19 | Dartford Grammar School | Dartford | 18.4 | 60.3 | 76.3 |
| 20 | King Edward VI Camp Hill School for Girls | Birmingham | 24.4 | 60.7 | 85.9 |
| 21 | Altrincham Grammar School for Boys | Altrincham | 27.6 | 64.2 | 82.5 |
| 22 | Friends’ School Lisburn | Lisburn | 23.3 | 65.1 | 77 |
| 23 | The Latymer School | London | 28.3 | 61.7 | 86.5 |
| 24 | Our Lady and St Patrick’s College, Knock | Belfast | 28 | 63.8 | 72.1 |
| 25 | The Liverpool Blue Coat School | Liverpool | 29.3 | 64.9 | 78.3 |
| 26 | St Mary’s Grammar School, Magherafelt | Magherafelt | 20.7 | 62.1 | 73.3 |
| 27 | St Dominic’s Grammar School for Girls | Belfast | 21.6 | 59.1 | 72.2 |
| 28 | Colchester County High School for Girls | Colchester | 18.5 | 52.3 | 86.9 |
| 29 | Sutton Coldfield Grammar School for Girls | Sutton Coldfield | 17.2 | 55.8 | 82.9 |
| 30 | Stratford Girls’ Grammar School | Stratford-upon-Avon | - | 52 | 87 |
| 31 | Strathearn School | Belfast | 21.6 | 58.3 | 76.4 |
| 32 | Sullivan Upper School | Holywood | 27.1 | 61.4 | 80.9 |
| 33 | Nonsuch High School for Girls | Cheam | 19.3 | 54.3 | 86.4 |
| 34 | St Michael’s Catholic Grammar School, Finchley | London | 24.9 | 57.3 | 83.3 |
| 35 | Dr Challoner’s Grammar School | Amersham | 31.9 | 63 | 76 |
| 36 | Newstead Wood School | Orpington | 16.1 | 47.2 | 84.9 |
| 37 | Beaconsfield High School | Beaconsfield | 20.5 | 54.2 | 76.1 |
| 38 | Dr Challoner’s High School | Little Chalfont | 18.9 | 55.4 | 77.6 |
| 39 | St Louis Grammar School | Ballymena | - | - | 68.1 |
| 40 | Banbridge Academy | Banbridge | 27 | 59.8 | 70 |
| 41 | Chesham Grammar School | Chesham | 16 | 48.5 | 74.9 |
| 42 | Rainey Endowed School, Magherafelt | Magherafelt | 19.7 | 54.5 | 68.6 |
| 43 | Sutton Grammar School | Sutton | 23.2 | 57.7 | 76.4 |
| 44 | Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School | Marlow | 20.1 | 53.6 | 76.4 |
| 45 | The Judd School | Tonbridge | 21.8 | 54.4 | 74.3 |
| 46 | Rugby High School | Rugby | 11.4 | 45.6 | 78.9 |
| 47 | King Edward VI Five Ways School | Birmingham | 23 | 57 | 74 |
| 48 | Wallington High School for Girls | Wallington | 17.7 | 50.3 | 81.7 |
| 49 | Sale Grammar School | Sale | 19.9 | 55.5 | 68.3 |
| 50 | Bexley Grammar School | Welling | 13 | 45.6 | 70.1 |
| 51 | Langley Grammar School | Langley | 22 | 53.2 | 76.9 |
| 52 | The Rochester Grammar School | Rochester | 13.2 | 55.3 | 62.4 |
| 53 | Bishop Vesey’s Grammar School | Sutton Coldfield | 23.3 | 56 | 70.1 |
| 54 | The Royal Grammar School, High Wycombe | High Wycombe | 24.2 | 55.1 | 74.7 |
| 55 | Aylesbury High School | Aylesbury | 16.2 | 47.9 | 76.5 |
| 56 | Wycombe High School | High Wycombe | 16.4 | 51.6 | 68.7 |
| 57 | Belfast Royal Academy | Belfast | 18.3 | 53.1 | 63.5 |
| 58 | Wallington County Grammar School | Wallington | 16.6 | 51.4 | 70.2 |
| 59 | Westcliff High School for Boys | Westcliff-on-Sea | 15.1 | 47 | 79.1 |
| 60 | Sir Thomas Rich’s School | Gloucester | 21.4 | 52.9 | 72.2 |
| 61 | Newport Girls’ High School | Newport | 21.2 | 47.8 | 82 |
| 62 | Ripon Grammar School | Ripon | 18.6 | 55 | 58.9 |
| 63 | Woodford County High School | Woodford Green | 17 | 27 | 80 |
| 64 | Aquinas Diocesan Grammar School | Belfast | 31.2 | 57.4 | 67.8 |
| 65 | Dalriada School | Ballymoney | 14.7 | 49.6 | 63.8 |
| 66 | Loreto Grammar School | Altrincham | 15.3 | 45.1 | 71.6 |
| 67 | Aylesbury Grammar School | Aylesbury | 20.3 | 51.9 | 68 |
| 68 | Tunbridge Wells Girls’ Grammar School | Tunbridge Wells | 15.1 | 44.9 | 66.1 |
| 69 | Ballymena Academy | Ballymena | 20.1 | 53.1 | 56.1 |
| 70 | Royal Latin School | Buckingham | 18 | 48 | 67 |
| 71 | Sir Henry Floyd Grammar School | Aylesbury | 17.2 | 46.6 | 68 |
| 72 | Heckmondwike Grammar School | Heckmondwike | - | - | 74 |
| 73 | Omagh Academy | Omagh | 17.7 | 46.8 | 64.8 |
| 74 | Bishop Wordsworth’s School | Salisbury | 21.3 | 48.8 | 63.6 |
| 75 | The Skinners’ School, Tunbridge Wells | Tunbridge Wells | 19.9 | 44.6 | 60.8 |
| 76 | Ballyclare High School | Ballyclare | 18.3 | 50.7 | 53 |
| 77 | Royal School Armagh | Armagh | - | 51.5 | 61.5 |
| 78 | Lancaster Girls’ Grammar School | Lancaster | 16.8 | 41.4 | 63.9 |
| 79 | Dane Court Grammar School | Broadstairs | 13 | 48.2 | 55.2 |
| 80 | Herschel Grammar School | Slough | 16 | 41 | 74 |
| 81 | Southend High School For Boys | Southend-on-Sea | 15.7 | 42.3 | 70.4 |
| 82 | John Hampden Grammar School | High Wycombe | 10.2 | 40.3 | 64.1 |
| 83 | The Wallace High School | Lisburn | 14.6 | 43 | 54.1 |
| 84 | Dartford Grammar School for Girls | Dartford | 8 | 33 | 73 |
| 85 | Upton Court Grammar School | Slough | 15.4 | 41.3 | 67.4 |
| 86 | Chislehurst and Sidcup Grammar School | Sidcup | 13 | 39.4 | 65.4 |
| 87 | Denmark Road High School | Gloucester | 11.2 | 35.4 | 73.4 |
| 88 | Westcliff High School for Girls | Westcliff-on-Sea | 11.9 | 36.6 | 75 |
| 89 | Torquay Girls’ Grammar School | Torquay | 11.3 | 39.5 | 61.3 |
| 90 | Methodist College Belfast | Belfast | 18.8 | 50 | 58.2 |
| 91 | Enniskillen Royal Grammar School (previously Portora Royal School) | Enniskillen | 12.9 | 41.5 | 53.4 |
| 92 | Bournemouth School for Girls | Bournemouth | 15.5 | 43.8 | 59.5 |
| 93 | Lawrence Sheriff School | Rugby | 11.7 | 36.7 | 65.2 |
| 94 | Alcester Grammar School | Alcester | 13.1 | 37.7 | 62.6 |
| 95 | Ilford County High School | Ilford | 13.4 | 35.9 | 75.3 |
| 96 | Urmston Grammar | Manchester | - | - | 68 |
| 97 | Devonport High School for Girls | Plymouth | 15.1 | 37.8 | 69.2 |
| 98 | The King’s School, Grantham | Grantham | 19.3 | 40.2 | 56.8 |
| 99 | Queen Mary’s High School, Walsall | Walsall | 9.7 | 32.6 | 71.3 |
| 100 | Lancaster Royal Grammar School | Lancaster | 17.2 | 47.7 | 61 |
| 101 | Wolverhampton Girls’ High School | Wolverhampton | 12.4 | 35.7 | 76.5 |
| 102 | Townley Grammar School | Bexleyheath | 10.2 | 38.3 | 68.5 |
| 103 | Stroud High School | Stroud | 12.6 | 36.3 | 67.3 |
| 104 | Parkstone Grammar School | Poole | 13.7 | 37.6 | 58.9 |
| 105 | Weald of Kent Grammar School | Tonbridge | 14.9 | 37.7 | 60.2 |
| 106 | Southend High School for Girls | Southend-on-Sea | 9.8 | 31.2 | 68.5 |
| 107 | Invicta Grammar School | Maidstone | - | - | 48 |
| 108 | South Wilts Grammar School for Girls | Salisbury | 10 | 31.2 | 69.1 |
| 109 | Queen Mary’s Grammar School, Walsall | Walsall | 12.7 | 35.1 | 68.8 |
| 110 | The Crypt School | Gloucester | 11.3 | 40.1 | 59.3 |
| 111 | Highworth Grammar School | Ashford | - | - | 57.3 |
| 112 | St Ambrose College | Altrincham | - | - | 66 |
| 113 | Haberdashers’ Adams | Newport | 15.6 | 40.6 | 63.9 |
| 114 | St Bernard’s Catholic Grammar School | Slough | 11.6 | 30.1 | 75.8 |
| 115 | Kesteven and Grantham Girls’ School | Grantham | 10.3 | 34.5 | 53.7 |
| 116 | Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School | Rochester | 15 | 41.5 | 57 |
| 117 | Glenlola Collegiate School | Bangor | 9.1 | 34.8 | 54.6 |
| 118 | Caistor Grammar School | Caistor | 10.1 | 37.5 | 55.5 |
| 119 | Kesteven and Sleaford High School | Sleaford | 12.6 | 41.3 | 47 |
| 120 | Churston Ferrers Grammar School | Brixham | 16.4 | 37 | 56.5 |
| 121 | West Kirby Grammar School | West Kirby | 9.6 | 33.5 | 51.8 |
| 122 | Limavady Grammar School | Limavady | 7.7 | 36.2 | 52.3 |
| 123 | Bourne Grammar School | Bourne | 9.2 | 36.1 | 55.4 |
| 124 | Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School | Rossendale | - | - | 60.9 |
| 125 | Burnham Grammar School | Burnham | - | 31 | 56 |
| 126 | Calday Grange Grammar School | West Kirby | - | - | 48.2 |
| 127 | Clitheroe Royal Grammar School | Clitheroe | 9.1 | 30 | 59.3 |
| 128 | Wirral Grammar School for Girls | Bebington | 9.1 | 29.2 | 59.5 |
| 129 | Devonport High School for Boys | Plymouth | - | - | 54.4 |
| 130 | Highsted Grammar School | Sittingbourne | - | - | 28.6 |
| 131 | Beths Grammar School | Bexley | 9 | 26.8 | 63 |
| 132 | Marling School | Stroud | - | 31 | 54 |
| 133 | Torquay Boys’ Grammar School | Torquay | - | - | 47.8 |
| 134 | Cranbrook School | Cranbrook | - | - | 46.3 |
| 135 | Rainham Mark Grammar School | Gillingham | 10.3 | 35.6 | 39.6 |
| 136 | Maidstone Grammar School | Maidstone | 8.3 | 29.8 | 43.1 |
| 137 | Spalding High School | Spalding | - | - | 45 |
| 138 | Queen Elizabeth’s High School, Gainsborough | Gainsborough | 4.2 | 29.2 | 41.5 |
| 139 | The Langton Grammar School for Boys | Canterbury | - | 30 | 56 |
| 140 | Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys | Tunbridge Wells | 9 | 31.6 | 33.8 |
| 141 | The Folkestone School for Girls | Folkestone | - | 30 | 46.8 |
| 142 | Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School, Faversham | Faversham | 10 | 28.4 | 36 |
| 143 | The Crossley Heath School | Halifax | 10.8 | 24.1 | 54 |
| 144 | King Edward VI Handsworth Grammar School for Boys | Birmingham | 7.3 | 21.9 | 58.2 |
| 145 | North Halifax Grammar School | Halifax | 8.6 | 27.1 | 50.1 |
| 146 | Plymouth High School for Girls | Plymouth | 6.3 | 23.4 | 47.7 |
| 147 | Maidstone Grammar School for Girls | Maidstone | - | 26 | 41.6 |
| 148 | Sir Roger Manwood’s School | Sandwich | - | - | 36.6 |
| 149 | Barton Court Grammar School | Canterbury | 6.3 | 25.7 | 35.9 |
| 150 | Oakwood Park Grammar School | Maidstone | 6.5 | 23.3 | 46 |
| 151 | St Joseph’s College, Stoke-on-Trent | Stoke-on-Trent | 5.8 | 20.3 | 45.3 |
| 152 | Gravesend Grammar School | Gravesend | 5.4 | 20 | 46.3 |
| 153 | Borden Grammar School | Sittingbourne | - | - | 36 |
| 154 | Chatham and Clarendon Grammar School | Ramsgate | - | 23 | 37 |
| 155 | Mayfield Grammar School | Gravesend | 5 | 17.5 | 44.3 |
| 156 | Holcombe Grammar School | Chatham | 4.6 | 21.9 | 26.5 |
How are the Rankings Measured?
This league table was completed based on the 2023 A-Levels results and the 2023 GCSE results. With that being said, the ranking acts merely as a point of reference. School selection should not be done solely based on academic results. There is much more to education than that.
Frequently Asked Questions about UK Grammar Schools
To apply for a grammar school, you typically need to register your child for the school’s entrance examination, which is usually taken in the year before they would start secondary education. Each grammar school has its own admission process, so it’s important to check the specific requirements and deadlines of the schools you are interested in.
Grammar schools are designed for academically able students, but the level of required ability can vary between schools. Some grammar schools have more stringent entrance requirements than others.
Yes, grammar schools in the UK are state-funded and, like other state schools, do not charge tuition fees. However, there may be additional costs for uniforms, textbooks, and extracurricular activities.
Grammar schools have a track record of sending a higher proportion of their students to top universities compared to non-selective schools. However, it’s important to note that admission to top universities is competitive, and other factors such as academic performance, extracurricular involvement, and personal statements also play a significant role in the university application process.
Grammar schools can be either single-sex or co-educational. The admission policies regarding gender vary between schools, so it’s necessary to research the specific schools you are interested in to determine their gender policies.
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