About Cambridgeshire Grammar Schools
Cambridgeshire hosts 7 selective schools — primarily Cambridge-area independents including The Perse School (boys), Perse Upper School, St John's College School, King's College School (Cambridge), and the Stephen Perse Foundation. Cambridge has a strong tradition of selective independent education tied to its university connections — many academic dynasties pass through these schools.
History & Tradition
The Perse School (founded 1615) is one of England's oldest independent schools — named after its founder, Stephen Perse. King's College School Cambridge (1441) and St John's College School (1511) were founded as choristers' schools for King's and St John's colleges respectively. Cambridge has no traditional state grammars — Cambridgeshire abolished selection in 1974.
The Entry Test
Cambridge independents typically use school-specific entrance exams. The Perse School tests in Maths, English, and Reasoning. Many also include interviews. The Choir schools (King's, St John's) require auditions in addition to academic testing.
Cambridgeshire 11+ at a Glance
7 Things You Should Know About Cambridgeshire Grammar Schools
Researched facts about the region's selective schools — drawn from official sources, school websites and education research.
- 1The Perse School (founded 1615) is one of the UK's top independent schools — particularly strong in Sciences and Mathematics, reflecting its proximity to Cambridge University.
- 2Cambridgeshire abolished state grammars in 1974 — all selective education in the county is now fee-paying independent.
- 3King's College School Cambridge and St John's College School (Cambridge) admit pupils as choristers — singing daily services in the world-famous King's and St John's college choirs.
- 4The Stephen Perse Foundation operates two co-educational independent senior schools in Cambridge — selective at entry and known for music and the arts.
- 5Cambridge independents draw families from across East Anglia and beyond — many pupils relocate to access the schools given their academic reputation.
- 6The Perse School moved to a new co-educational model in 2009 (Senior School), with the prep school becoming Perse Pelican.
- 7Cambridgeshire families seeking traditional grammar education at 11+ typically look to neighbouring Lincolnshire (1 hour) or Buckinghamshire (1.5 hours) — both involve significant commuting.
| Rank | School Name | Gender | PAN | 11+ Exam | GCSE 9-7 | A-Level A*-B |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kimbolton School | Boys | — | Independent | 60.8% | 71.4% | |
| Oundle School | Mixed | 210 | Independent | 77.6% | 87.5% | |
| St. Mary's School, Cambridge | Girls | 50 | CEM Select | 62.9% | 77% | |
| The King's (The Cathedral) School, Peterborough | Mixed | 96 | GL Assessment | 45.7% | 69.4% | |
| The Leys School | Mixed | 130 | Independent | 86.1% | 85.7% | |
| The Perse School | Mixed | 162 | Independent | 90.4% | 93.9% | |
| The Peterborough School | Girls | — | Independent | — | — |
Cambridgeshire Grammar Schools — Frequently Asked Questions
What 11+ exam do Cambridgeshire grammar schools use?
Most Cambridgeshire 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 Cambridgeshire grammar schools distinctive?
The Perse School (founded 1615) is one of the UK's top independent schools — particularly strong in Sciences and Mathematics, reflecting its proximity to Cambridge University.
What else should families know about the Cambridgeshire 11+?
Cambridgeshire abolished state grammars in 1974 — all selective education in the county is now fee-paying independent.
Nearby Regions
Many families consider grammars in neighbouring regions to maximise options. Explore: