About Nottinghamshire Grammar Schools
Nottinghamshire has no state grammar schools — Nottingham's selective education is provided by Nottingham High School (independent, mixed). The county abolished state grammars in the 1970s. Nottingham High School (founded 1513) is one of the older independent schools in England.
History & Tradition
Nottingham High School (founded 1513) — one of the oldest grammar schools in England, originally for boys. Co-educational since 2014. Nottinghamshire abolished state grammars in 1973.
The Entry Test
Nottingham High School uses its own entrance test in autumn of Year 6 — covering English, Maths, and Reasoning. Also accepts pupils at 13+ Common Entrance.
Nottinghamshire 11+ at a Glance
7 Things You Should Know About Nottinghamshire Grammar Schools
Researched facts about the region's selective schools — drawn from official sources, school websites and education research.
- 1Nottinghamshire has no state grammar schools — Nottingham's selective education is provided by Nottingham High School (independent).
- 2Nottingham High School (founded 1513) is one of England's oldest still-operating schools — co-educational since 2014.
- 3Nottinghamshire's state secondary system is fully comprehensive — academic ability is not used for state-school admission.
- 4Nottinghamshire families seeking traditional grammar education typically look to neighbouring Lincolnshire — one of England's largest grammar systems.
- 5Nottingham High School offers significant bursary support — up to 100% of fees for families with household income under £50,000.
- 6Some Nottinghamshire families also access Trafford Grammar Schools (about 1 hour 30 minutes) — particularly families in northern Nottinghamshire (Worksop, Retford).
- 7Strong comprehensive schools in Nottinghamshire include Nottingham Free School and West Bridgford School — both with strong A-Level results.
| Rank | School Name | Gender | PAN | 11+ Exam | GCSE 9-7 | A-Level A*-B |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nottingham Girls' High School (NGHS) | Girls | — | Independent | 60.1% | 82.9% |
Nottinghamshire Grammar Schools — Frequently Asked Questions
What 11+ exam do Nottinghamshire grammar schools use?
Most Nottinghamshire 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 Nottinghamshire grammar schools distinctive?
Nottinghamshire has no state grammar schools — Nottingham's selective education is provided by Nottingham High School (independent).
What else should families know about the Nottinghamshire 11+?
Nottingham High School (founded 1513) is one of England's oldest still-operating schools — co-educational since 2014.
Nearby Regions
Many families consider grammars in neighbouring regions to maximise options. Explore: