About Bath & Somerset Grammar Schools
Bath & Somerset hosts 2 selective schools — primarily Bath-area independents including King Edward's School Bath (founded 1552) and Royal High School Bath (GDST, girls). Bath has no state grammar schools — Somerset abolished selection in the 1970s. Many Somerset families seeking grammar education look to Wiltshire (Bishop Wordsworth's) or Bristol Cathedral Choir School.
History & Tradition
King Edward's School Bath (founded 1552) is one of the oldest still-operating grammar schools in England. Royal High School Bath (1865) is part of the Girls' Day School Trust. Somerset's state grammars were abolished in the 1970s.
The Entry Test
King Edward's Bath uses its own school-specific entrance test in autumn of Year 6. Royal High Bath also uses school-specific testing plus interviews.
Bath & Somerset 11+ at a Glance
7 Things You Should Know About Bath & Somerset Grammar Schools
Researched facts about the region's selective schools — drawn from official sources, school websites and education research.
- 1King Edward's School Bath (founded 1552) is one of England's oldest still-operating grammar schools — co-educational since 1990.
- 2Royal High School Bath (founded 1865) is a GDST school — known for strong A-Level results and Oxbridge entry.
- 3Somerset abolished state grammars in the 1970s — all selective education in the county is now fee-paying independent.
- 4Bath families seeking traditional grammar education typically look to neighbouring Wiltshire (Bishop Wordsworth's, South Wilts) — 45-60 minutes by car.
- 5Bristol Cathedral Choir School is a state-funded selective option accessible to some Somerset families.
- 6Bath independents (King Edward's, Royal High Bath) offer bursaries — making selective education accessible to academically strong families with modest incomes.
- 7Many Somerset families with academically able children prioritise strong comprehensive schools (Norton Hill, Wells Cathedral School) — Somerset has several well-regarded non-selective options.
| Rank | School Name | Gender | PAN | 11+ Exam | GCSE 9-7 | A-Level A*-B |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Millfield School | Mixed | 170 | CEM Select | 40% | 62% | |
| Prior Park College | Mixed | — | CEM Select | 52% | 63% |
Bath & Somerset Grammar Schools — Frequently Asked Questions
What 11+ exam do Bath & Somerset grammar schools use?
Most Bath & Somerset grammar schools admit pupils through the CEM Select 11+. Check each school's row above, as some set their own entrance test or use a different exam board.
What makes Bath & Somerset grammar schools distinctive?
King Edward's School Bath (founded 1552) is one of England's oldest still-operating grammar schools — co-educational since 1990.
What else should families know about the Bath & Somerset 11+?
Royal High School Bath (founded 1865) is a GDST school — known for strong A-Level results and Oxbridge entry.
Nearby Regions
Many families consider grammars in neighbouring regions to maximise options. Explore: