The Great Grammar School Census: How Many Brainiac Breeding Grounds Are There in England?
Ah, the grammar school. A hallowed institution in some parts of England, a source of endless debate in others. These bastions of academia, bastions that some might argue resemble pressure cookers more than bastions, are state-funded schools that select students based on academic ability. But just how many of these selective schools are there?
The Shockingly Not-So-Shocking Answer (with a Dash of Bureaucracy)
Brace yourselves, knowledge seekers: there are 163 grammar schools in England. That's a number that's been holding steady for a while now, despite whispers of change and the occasional rumour of a rogue school multiplying like rogue gremlins after midnight.
Tip: Read once for flow, once for detail.
For those of you who like your facts wrapped in legalese, here's the fancy way of saying it: there are 163 "state-funded fully selective schools". See? Even the official term sounds like it needs a nap after a long day of wrangling commas.
But Wait, There's More! (A Geographical Aside)
QuickTip: Break down long paragraphs into main ideas.
Now, those 163 schools aren't exactly scattered evenly across England like confetti at a particularly enthusiastic wedding. They're concentrated in a mere 35 local authorities. That means some areas are swimming in grammar schools, while others are left with nary a selective school in sight.
Eleven Plus? More Like Eleven... What Was the Question Again?
Tip: Use this post as a starting point for exploration.
So, how do these brainiac breeding grounds choose their students? Traditionally, it's all about the 11-Plus exam. This test, taken by students around the age of 11, is supposed to be a magical key that unlocks the grammar school door. Though, let's be honest, some might argue it feels more like a high-stakes game of academic hopscotch.
How to Grammar School in Five Easy Steps (Spoiler Alert: It's Not That Easy)
QuickTip: Scan for summary-style sentences.
Here's a glimpse into the wonderful world of getting into a grammar school (with a healthy dose of reality):
- Be Born Gifted (or at Least Really Good at Studying): This one's kind of a prerequisite.
- Ace the 11-Plus: Easier said than done, my friend.
- Navigate the Application Maze: Buckle up, it's a bureaucratic rollercoaster.
- Hope for the Best: Because sometimes, even geniuses get unlucky.
- Remember: Grammar schools aren't the only path to academic success! There are fantastic comprehensive schools out there too.
So there you have it! The not-so-secret, but hopefully now slightly more clear, answer to the age-old question: how many grammar schools are there in England? Now you can impress your friends at trivia night, or wow your neighbours with your newfound knowledge of selective schooling.
💡 This page may contain affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.