Question 1

What is a grammar school?

Accepted Answer

A grammar school is a state-funded secondary school that selects pupils by academic ability, using the 11-plus entrance exam. There are 163 grammar schools in England, concentrated in around 10 counties including Kent, Buckinghamshire, and Lincolnshire. They are free to attend and typically cover ages 11–18.

Question 2

How does the 11-plus exam work?

Accepted Answer

The 11-plus is taken in September or October of Year 6 (age 10–11). It typically tests verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, mathematics, and English. Each grammar school consortium sets its own pass mark. Preparation through practice papers is common, and some children attend specialist tutoring. Results are usually issued in October.

Question 3

How many grammar schools are in England?

Accepted Answer

There are 163 fully selective state grammar schools in England, educating around 167,000 pupils. They are concentrated in specific areas: Kent has 33, Buckinghamshire has 13, and Lincolnshire has 15. Some areas such as London, Manchester, and Birmingham have no grammar schools at all.

Question 4

Which counties have grammar schools?

Accepted Answer

Grammar schools are mainly found in Kent, Buckinghamshire, Lincolnshire, Essex, Devon, Gloucestershire, Hertfordshire, Shropshire, Wiltshire, and parts of the West Midlands and Berkshire. A handful also exist in other areas as isolated selective schools. Use the search above to find grammar schools near your postcode.

Question 5

Are grammar schools better than non-selective schools?

Accepted Answer

Grammar schools consistently rank highly in league tables, but this partly reflects the high prior attainment of their intake rather than the schools adding exceptional value. Research shows mixed evidence on value-added progress. Non-selective schools rated Outstanding by Ofsted can offer equally strong outcomes. Comparing Progress 8 scores gives a fairer picture of school effectiveness.

Question 6

Is there an alternative to grammar school?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many outstanding non-selective secondary schools and academies achieve excellent GCSE and A-level results. Some independent schools also offer highly academic environments, often with means-tested bursaries. Use Eduscope to compare all secondary schools in your area by results, Ofsted rating, and distance.

Grammar Schools Near Me

What to look for

11-Plus Exam

Ofsted Rating

Academic Results

Popular locations for grammar schools near me

Hampshire

Essex

Kent

Hertfordshire

Lancashire

Surrey

Birmingham

West Sussex

Staffordshire

Derbyshire

Norfolk

Nottinghamshire

Frequently Asked Questions

Browse by Phase

Browse by Faith

Browse by Gender