About Cornwall Grammar Schools
Cornwall has no state grammar schools — selective education in the county is provided by a single notable independent: Truro School. The county is fully comprehensive at the state level. Many academically able Cornish families choose between Truro School (independent) or comprehensive secondaries (Truro & Penwith College for sixth form).
History & Tradition
Truro School was founded in 1880 — originally as a Methodist boys' school. The school became co-educational in 1990. Cornwall has been fully comprehensive at state level since the 1970s.
The Entry Test
Truro School uses its own entrance test in autumn of Year 6 — covering English, Maths, and Reasoning. The school also accepts pupils at 13+.
Cornwall 11+ at a Glance
7 Things You Should Know About Cornwall Grammar Schools
Researched facts about the region's selective schools — drawn from official sources, school websites and education research.
- 1Cornwall has no state grammar schools — selective state education is unavailable in the county.
- 2Truro School (independent, founded 1880) is Cornwall's only major selective school — admitting boys and girls, with both day and boarding places.
- 3Many academically able Cornish families choose comprehensive schools — Cornwall's comprehensive system is well-developed with strong A-Level results at several schools.
- 4Truro & Penwith College is a popular state sixth-form for academically able pupils — admitting Year 12 onwards.
- 5Cornwall families seeking traditional grammar education at 11+ typically look to neighbouring Devon (Colyton, Plymouth) — though significant travel is required.
- 6Truro School offers means-tested bursaries — making selective education accessible to academically strong families with modest incomes.
- 7Cornwall's geography makes school choice limited — families in West Cornwall (Penzance, Helston) have very limited selective options beyond comprehensive education.
| Rank | School Name | Gender | PAN | 11+ Exam | GCSE 9-7 | A-Level A*-B |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Truro School | Mixed | — | Independent | 46.5% | 80.1% |
Cornwall Grammar Schools — Frequently Asked Questions
What 11+ exam do Cornwall grammar schools use?
Most Cornwall 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 Cornwall grammar schools distinctive?
Cornwall has no state grammar schools — selective state education is unavailable in the county.
What else should families know about the Cornwall 11+?
Truro School (independent, founded 1880) is Cornwall's only major selective school — admitting boys and girls, with both day and boarding places.
Nearby Regions
Many families consider grammars in neighbouring regions to maximise options. Explore: