About Bristol Grammar Schools
Bristol hosts 4 selective schools — primarily independent grammars and faith-based selectives, as Bristol abolished its state grammars in the 1970s. Notable Bristol selectives include Bristol Cathedral Choir School, Colston's Girls' School, Bristol Grammar School (independent), and Clifton College. The city has a strong tradition of selective independent education.
History & Tradition
Bristol Grammar School was founded in 1532 by Robert and Nicholas Thorne. Bristol Cathedral School dates from medieval cathedral schools. Colston's Girls' was founded in 1891 (and renamed in recent years amid the Colston statue debate). Bristol's state grammars were abolished in the 1970s under comprehensive reform.
The Entry Test
Bristol selectives use various tests — typically school-specific entrance exams in English, Maths, and Reasoning, often supplemented by interviews. Colston's Girls' uses its own test; Bristol Cathedral Choir School includes music aptitude testing.
Bristol 11+ at a Glance
7 Things You Should Know About Bristol Grammar Schools
Researched facts about the region's selective schools — drawn from official sources, school websites and education research.
- 1Bristol abolished its state grammar schools in the 1970s under comprehensive reform — there are no traditional state grammars in the city.
- 2Bristol Cathedral Choir School is a state-funded faith school admitting choristers via music aptitude tests — one of the few state-funded selective routes in Bristol.
- 3Bristol Grammar School (independent, founded 1532) is one of the oldest still-operating independent schools in England — fees ~£18,000/year for day pupils.
- 4Colston's Girls' School (formerly Colston's Girls', renamed amid the statue removal debate) is an independent day school with strong academic record.
- 5Clifton College (independent, founded 1862) offers boarding and day options — one of the most prestigious South West independents.
- 6Bristol families seeking traditional grammar education typically look to Gloucestershire (Pate's Grammar, Cheltenham) — a 30-40 minute commute north.
- 7Most Bristol state secondary schools are comprehensive — academic ability is no longer used for state-school admission in the city.
| Rank | School Name | Gender | PAN | 11+ Exam | GCSE 9-7 | A-Level A*-B |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bristol Grammar School (BGS) | Mixed | 150 | GL Assessment | 69.6% | 77.7% | |
| Clifton High School | Girls | — | Independent | 57.3% | 62.9% | |
| Collegiate School Bristol | Mixed | — | Independent | — | — | |
| Queen Elizabeth's Hospital | Boys | — | Independent | 66.1% | 78.2% |
Bristol Grammar Schools — Frequently Asked Questions
What 11+ exam do Bristol grammar schools use?
Most Bristol grammar schools admit pupils through the Independent 11+. Check each school's row above, as some set their own entrance test or use a different exam board.
What makes Bristol grammar schools distinctive?
Bristol abolished its state grammar schools in the 1970s under comprehensive reform — there are no traditional state grammars in the city.
What else should families know about the Bristol 11+?
Bristol Cathedral Choir School is a state-funded faith school admitting choristers via music aptitude tests — one of the few state-funded selective routes in Bristol.
Nearby Regions
Many families consider grammars in neighbouring regions to maximise options. Explore: