Gloucestershire Selective Schools

An independent co-educational nursery and preparatory school for children aged two to 13, Tockington Manor School in South Gloucestershire prides itself on upholding traditional family values and allowing 'children to be children' for as long as possible.

Housed in the beautiful 18th century Tockington Manor and set in 28 acres of countryside, just north of Bristol, the school offers a breadth and depth in education boasting an excellent success rate in its Common Entrance exams, with a high percentage of its pupils winning academic, design and technology and sports scholarships to the country's top senior schools, too.

The academic experience at Tockington is enhanced by additional childcare that aligns with modern day family life, offering all families extended hours from breakfast until after supper.

Founded in 1666, Sir Thomas Rich's School is a state-funded selective grammar school in Gloucester. It admits boys into Years 7–11 through the Gloucestershire Grammar Schools Admissions Test, with a co-educational sixth form welcoming both young men and women. The school combines a strong academic tradition with excellent pastoral care, extensive extracurricular opportunities and consistently high outcomes, preparing students for leading universities and future careers.

Founded in 1987, St Edward's School is Cheltenham's only independent day school, providing a co-educational environment grounded in Roman Catholic values while welcoming students of all faiths. The school emphasizes academic achievement, personal growth, and community involvement, offering a comprehensive curriculum and a variety of extracurricular activities. Its supportive atmosphere fosters the development of well-rounded individuals prepared for the challenges of higher education and beyond.

Al-Ashraf Primary School offers a distinctive education founded on Islamic values, focusing on academic achievement and personal growth. Its holistic approach nurtures students' moral character, spiritual development, and community-mindedness. The application process involves submitting an online form, followed by an interview or assessment to ensure alignment with the school’s ethos. Parents are encouraged to attend an open day to experience the school firsthand. This combination of strong academic performance with moral and spiritual education prepares students to thrive in both their personal and academic lives.

Berkhampstead School offers a nurturing environment where academic excellence meets personalized learning. Its unique approach emphasizes individual growth, creativity, and a strong sense of community. The school has entry requirements based on assessment processes tailored to each stage, with particular focus on matching candidates’ abilities and values with the school's ethos. Berkhampstead stands out for its focus on holistic education and small class sizes, ensuring every child receives personalized attention to thrive academically and personally.

Pate's Grammar School in Cheltenham is known for its academic excellence, offering a rigorous and well-rounded education, catering to students aged 11 to 18, offering both Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 education, and continuing into the Sixth Form. The school focuses on high standards of scholarship, creativity, and personal development. Admission to Year 7 is through the 11+ entrance exam, which evaluates verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, and mathematics. What sets Pate's apart is its commitment to nurturing intellectual curiosity and leadership, supported by a wide range of extracurricular activities. The school fosters a dynamic and inclusive environment, preparing students for success in both higher education and future careers.

The Richard Pate School is an independent, co-educational day school in Cheltenham, offering a nurturing and stimulating environment for children aged 2 to 11. Known for its strong academic foundation and commitment to developing well-rounded individuals, the school stands out for its personalized approach to education, where each child’s unique needs and potential are recognized and supported.

For admission to Reception and Year 1, children are typically assessed through an informal play-based assessment, which includes observations to evaluate their social and developmental skills. For older year groups, entrance is based on informal assessments, including subject-specific tests and interviews, to ensure the school is a good fit for each child’s abilities and character.

Richard Pate’s focus on creativity, character development, and emotional well-being sets it apart, offering a broad curriculum that includes the arts, sports, and outdoor learning. With small class sizes, a supportive staff, and a strong sense of community, The Richard Pate School prepares students not only for academic success but also for life beyond the classroom.

Marling School is a selective boys' grammar school in Stroud, Gloucestershire, known for its academic excellence, strong community values, and commitment to developing well-rounded individuals. Admission to Year 7 is based on performance in the 11+ entrance exam, which assesses verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, and numerical ability. Marling School stands out for its holistic approach to education, offering a broad curriculum alongside a diverse range of extracurricular activities that emphasize leadership, teamwork, and personal development. The school fosters a culture of academic rigor, resilience, and integrity, preparing students for success in both higher education and future careers. With a focus on both academic achievement and character development, Marling School provides an inspiring and supportive environment where students are encouraged to reach their full potential.

Stroud High School is a selective grammar school for girls in Gloucestershire, renowned for its academic excellence, innovative approach to education, and commitment to student well-being. Admission to Year 7 is based on performance in the 11+ entrance exam, assessing verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, and numerical ability, while entry to the Sixth Form requires strong GCSE results. What sets Stroud High apart is its focus on empowering young women through leadership opportunities, a broad global outlook, and a culture of kindness and aspiration. The school offers a rich curriculum alongside a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including an emphasis on entrepreneurial skills, creativity, and community engagement. With a vibrant and supportive environment, Stroud High School inspires students to become confident, forward-thinking individuals ready to shape the future.

Denmark Road High School is a selective grammar school for girls in Gloucester, distinguished by its exceptional academic standards, strong sense of community, and focus on empowering students to excel. Admission to Year 7 is based on the 11+ entrance exam, which assesses verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, and numerical ability, while entry to the Sixth Form requires strong GCSE results. What sets Denmark Road apart is its commitment to developing students as confident, independent thinkers through a curriculum that fosters curiosity, creativity, and leadership. The school emphasizes student well-being, diversity, and personal growth, ensuring a balance between academic achievement and individual development. With a dynamic learning environment, outstanding extracurricular opportunities, and a culture of ambition and support, Denmark Road High School prepares students to succeed in higher education and beyond.

The Crypt School is a selective co-educational grammar school in Gloucester, known for its academic excellence, inclusive ethos, and strong focus on character development. Admission to Year 7 is based on performance in the 11+ entrance exam, assessing verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, and numerical ability, while entry into the Sixth Form requires strong GCSE results. What sets The Crypt apart is its commitment to developing well-rounded individuals through a combination of academic challenge, leadership opportunities, and an extensive co-curricular programme. The school fosters a culture of integrity, resilience, and ambition, preparing students for success in higher education and future careers. With a welcoming and forward-thinking environment, The Crypt School ensures that every student is supported and encouraged to reach their full potential.

Ribston Hall High School is a selective grammar school for girls in Gloucester, recognized for its academic excellence, supportive community, and focus on individual empowerment. Admission to Year 7 is based on performance in the 11+ entrance exam, which assesses verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, and numerical ability, while entry into the Sixth Form requires strong GCSE results. What sets Ribston Hall apart is its commitment to developing confident, independent learners through a diverse and enriching curriculum, leadership opportunities, and a strong emphasis on student well-being. The school fosters a culture of resilience, creativity, and ambition, ensuring that students not only excel academically but also grow into empowered young women ready to make a positive impact on the world. With a nurturing and inclusive environment, Ribston Hall High School inspires students to achieve their full potential in all areas of life.