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Grammar school

A state secondary school that selects pupils by academic ability, usually through an entrance test taken in Year 6 (England) or Primary 7 (Northern Ireland).

Used in
England, Northern Ireland
Topic
Types of school

Being checked against official sources. This definition is written in our own words; always check the official guidance for your country.

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Eleven-plus (11+) England Northern Ireland
An entrance test taken by some children around age 10 to 11 to gain a place at a grammar or other selective school. In England it is set by individual schools or areas; in Northern Ireland transfer tests are run by independent test providers.
Selective school All four UK nations (details may differ)
Any school that admits pupils wholly or partly on the basis of academic ability or aptitude tested at entry.
Comprehensive school All four UK nations (details may differ)
A state secondary school that admits pupils of all abilities without academic selection.

More terms: Types of school

First school · Foundation school · Free school · Infant school · Junior school · Maintained school

More terms starting with G · Education glossary A–Z · Get a TIP for your class

Definitions are written by Classfern in our own words for teachers in the UK and the US. They are short explanations, not legal or official definitions: always check the official guidance for your country, nation or state. Classfern is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government department, inspectorate or exam board named here.