About Northamptonshire Grammar Schools
Northamptonshire hosts 2 selective independent schools — Northampton High School (girls, GDST) and Wellingborough School (mixed). The county has no state grammar schools. Many academically able Northamptonshire families look to neighbouring Lincolnshire or Buckinghamshire for selective state education.
History & Tradition
Northampton High School for Girls (1878) is a GDST school. Wellingborough School (1595) is one of the older grammar schools in England, originally for boys, co-educational since 1979.
The Entry Test
Each school uses its own entrance test in autumn of Year 6. Northampton High School and Wellingborough each have separate registration.
Northamptonshire 11+ at a Glance
7 Things You Should Know About Northamptonshire Grammar Schools
Researched facts about the region's selective schools — drawn from official sources, school websites and education research.
- 1Northamptonshire has no state grammar schools — selective state education is unavailable in the county.
- 2Wellingborough School (founded 1595) is one of England's older grammar schools — co-educational since 1979.
- 3Northampton High School for Girls (1878) is part of the Girls' Day School Trust — strong A-Level results and Oxbridge entry.
- 4Northamptonshire families seeking traditional state grammar education typically look to Buckinghamshire (Aylesbury, ~1 hour) or Lincolnshire (1 hour).
- 5Both Northamptonshire selectives offer means-tested bursaries — making selective education accessible to families with modest incomes.
- 6Wellingborough School offers boarding alongside day places — one of the few selective options in Northamptonshire with residential education.
- 7Strong comprehensive schools in Northamptonshire include Sponne School and Lawrence Sheriff (Rugby, just over the border).
| Rank | School Name | Gender | PAN | 11+ Exam | GCSE 9-7 | A-Level A*-B |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northampton High School | Girls | — | GL Assessment | 58% | 72% | |
| Wellingborough School | Mixed | — | Independent | — | — |
Northamptonshire Grammar Schools — Frequently Asked Questions
What 11+ exam do Northamptonshire grammar schools use?
Most Northamptonshire 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 Northamptonshire grammar schools distinctive?
Northamptonshire has no state grammar schools — selective state education is unavailable in the county.
What else should families know about the Northamptonshire 11+?
Wellingborough School (founded 1595) is one of England's older grammar schools — co-educational since 1979.
Nearby Regions
Many families consider grammars in neighbouring regions to maximise options. Explore: