The Best Grammar Schools in Bristol

Mar 03, 2023

Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions a parent can make. If you live in Bristol, you’ll be pleased to know that the city is home to some of the best grammar schools in the country.

But what exactly is a grammar school? Simply put, it is a state secondary school that places a strong emphasis on academic achievement. Students are admitted based on their performance in an entrance examination, commonly referred to as the 11-plus, which tests their skills in verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, mathematics, and English.

There are several factors that contribute to a grammar school’s reputation, including the academic achievements of its past students and its Ofsted rating. The latter grades schools on a scale of 1 to 4, with 1 being “Outstanding,” 2 being “Good,” 3 being “Requires Improvement,” and 4 being “Inadequate.” Inspectors evaluate the quality of education, behaviour and personal development of pupils, and leadership and management.

One of the most important measures of a grammar school’s success is the average A Level grades obtained by its students. A Levels are crucial because they determine the UCAS points required for undergraduate study. In Bristol, state-funded schools and colleges have an average A Level grade of B-.

Here are some of the best grammar schools in Bristol, based on their A Level results and other factors:

1. Redland Green School

Redland Green School

Address: Redland Ct Rd, Bristol BS6 7EH

Ofsted Rating: 1-Outstanding

Number of students sitting A Levels: 127

Average A Level Grade: B+

% of 125 students achieving AAB or higher, including at least two facilitating subjects: 33.6%

Redland Green School is a mixed comprehensive school with a grammar stream that offers a broad range of academic and vocational courses. The school has a strong focus on sustainability and encourages students to take part in a wide range of extra-curricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and community service.

2. Backwell School

Backwell School

Address: Station Rd, Backwell, Bristol BS48 3BX

Ofsted Rating: 2-Good

Number of students sitting A Levels: 154

Average A Level Grade: B-

% of 137 students achieving AAB or higher, including at least two facilitating subjects: 25.5%

Backwell School is a mixed comprehensive school with a grammar stream that offers a wide range of academic and vocational courses. The school has a strong focus on pastoral care and offers a range of extra-curricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and community service.

3. Fairfield High School

Fairfield High School

Address: Allfoxton Rd, Bristol BS7 9NL

Ofsted Rating: 2-Good

Number of students sitting A Levels: 58

Average A Level Grade: C+

% of 47 students achieving AAB or higher, including at least two facilitating subjects: N/A

Fairfield High School is a mixed comprehensive school with a grammar stream that offers a broad range of academic and vocational courses. The school has a strong focus on diversity and inclusion and offers a range of extra-curricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and community service.

4. Cotham School

Cotham School

Address: Cotham Lawn Rd, Bristol BS6 6DT

Ofsted Rating: 2-Good

Number of students sitting A Levels: 200

Average A Level Grade: B-

% of 174 students achieving AAB or higher, including at least two facilitating subjects: 23%

Cotham School is a mixed comprehensive school with a grammar stream that offers a wide range of academic and vocational courses. The school has a strong focus on sustainability and offers a range of extra-curricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and community service.

Overall, Bristol is home to a range of grammar schools that offer excellent academic opportunities for students who are willing to work hard and achieve their potential. Parents should carefully consider their child’s strengths and interests when choosing a school, and should also take into account the school’s academic achievements, Ofsted rating, and range of extra-curricular activities.

5. Montpelier High School

Montpelier High School

Address: Cheltenham Rd, Bristol BS6 5RD

Ofsted Rating: 4-Inadequate

Number of students sitting A Levels: 120

Average A Level Grade: A-

% of 114 students achieving AAB or higher, including at least two facilitating subjects: 50%

Previously named Colston’s Girls’ School, Montpelier High School is a selective, all-girls grammar school that places great importance on academic achievement. The school offers a wide range of extra-curricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and art.