About Norfolk Grammar Schools
Norfolk hosts 2 selective schools — Norwich School (mixed, independent) and Norwich High School for Girls (GDST). The county has no state grammar schools (abolished in the 1970s). Norwich is one of England's most historic cities, and its schools share that long tradition.
History & Tradition
Norwich School (founded 1547) was originally a free school for boys, founded with monastic dissolution funds. Norwich High School for Girls (1875) was founded by the Girls' Public Day School Trust (now GDST). Norfolk's state grammars were abolished in 1976.
The Entry Test
Norwich School uses its own entrance test in autumn of Year 6 — covering English, Maths, and Reasoning. Norwich High School for Girls uses its own test plus an interview.
Norfolk 11+ at a Glance
7 Things You Should Know About Norfolk Grammar Schools
Researched facts about the region's selective schools — drawn from official sources, school websites and education research.
- 1Norwich School (founded 1547) is one of England's older grammar schools — co-educational since 1995, with strong ties to Norwich Cathedral.
- 2Norwich High School for Girls is part of the Girls' Day School Trust (GDST) — a network of 25 selective girls' independent schools across the UK.
- 3Norfolk abolished state grammars in 1976 — all selective education in the county is now fee-paying independent.
- 4Norfolk families seeking traditional grammar state education typically apply to Lincolnshire grammars — though distance is significant (1-2 hours).
- 5Norwich School maintains strong sporting and musical traditions alongside academic excellence — the cathedral choir includes Norwich School pupils.
- 6Many Norfolk families with academically able children choose between independent schools (Norwich School, Norwich High School) and strong comprehensive schools in the county.
- 7Norfolk's rural geography means even reaching the few selective schools involves significant travel for many families.
| Rank | School Name | Gender | PAN | 11+ Exam | GCSE 9-7 | A-Level A*-B |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gresham's School | Boys | — | GL Assessment | — | 75% | |
| Norwich School | Mixed | — | Independent | 74% | 81.7% |
Norfolk Grammar Schools — Frequently Asked Questions
What 11+ exam do Norfolk grammar schools use?
Most Norfolk 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 Norfolk grammar schools distinctive?
Norwich School (founded 1547) is one of England's older grammar schools — co-educational since 1995, with strong ties to Norwich Cathedral.
What else should families know about the Norfolk 11+?
Norwich High School for Girls is part of the Girls' Day School Trust (GDST) — a network of 25 selective girls' independent schools across the UK.
Nearby Regions
Many families consider grammars in neighbouring regions to maximise options. Explore: