Top 10 Grammar Schools in Manchester

Manchester and its surrounding areas boast some of the UK’s most prestigious grammar schools, known for their academic excellence and holistic development of students. Whether you’re considering options for your child or exploring the educational landscape, here’s a curated list of the top grammar schools in Greater Manchester for 2025:

1. Altrincham Grammar School for Girls (AGGS)

• Location: Bowdon, Altrincham
• Type: State, Girls (11–18)
• Ofsted: Outstanding
• Highlights: AGGS is the largest single-sex grammar school in England, renowned for its exceptional academic results. In 2023, 46.2% of GCSE grades were at grade 9, and 59.6% of A-Level entries achieved A*-A grades. The school offers a broad curriculum and a wide range of extracurricular activities.

2. Altrincham Grammar School for Boys (AGSB)

• Location: Bowdon, Altrincham
• Type: State, Boys (11–18)
• Ofsted: Outstanding
• Highlights: AGSB has a strong focus on STEM subjects and consistently ranks among the top-performing schools nationally. The school emphasizes discipline, independence, and community engagement, preparing students for success in higher education and beyond.

3. The Manchester Grammar School (MGS)

• Location: Manchester City Centre
• Type: Independent, Boys (7–18)
• Highlights: Founded in 1515, MGS is one of the UK’s leading independent schools. In 2023, 78.9% of A-Level students achieved AAB or higher, including at least two facilitating subjects. The school offers a rich array of extracurricular activities, fostering well-rounded development.

4. Loreto Grammar School

• Location: Altrincham
• Type: State, Girls (11–18)
• Ofsted: Outstanding
• Highlights: A Roman Catholic grammar school with a strong academic record, Loreto offers a supportive environment and a diverse curriculum. In 2023, 33.9% of A-Level students achieved AAB or higher, including at least two facilitating subjects.

5. Sale Grammar School

• Location: Sale
• Type: State, Co-educational (11–18)
• Ofsted: Outstanding
• Highlights: Sale Grammar is known for its modern facilities and emphasis on both academic and creative subjects. The school provides a balanced education with strong support for students’ personal development.

6. Stretford Grammar School

• Location: Stretford
• Type: State, Co-educational (11–18)
• Ofsted: Good
• Highlights: Stretford Grammar offers a diverse and inclusive environment, focusing on academic achievement and personal growth. The school has a strong community ethos and encourages student participation in various extracurricular activities.

7. Urmston Grammar School

• Location: Urmston
• Type: State, Co-educational (11–18)
• Ofsted: Good
• Highlights: Urmston Grammar is recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and student well-being. The school offers a broad curriculum and a range of extracurricular opportunities to support holistic development.

8. William Hulme’s Grammar School

• Location: Manchester
• Type: State, Co-educational (3–18)
• Ofsted: Good
• Highlights: As an all-through academy, William Hulme’s provides continuous education from primary through to sixth form. The school emphasizes academic achievement and offers a variety of extracurricular programs.

9. Kassim Darwish Grammar School for Boys

• Location: Manchester
• Type: Independent, Boys (11–16)
• Highlights: This Islamic independent school focuses on academic excellence within an Islamic ethos. The school provides a supportive environment that nurtures both educational and personal development.

10. Manchester Islamic Grammar School for Girls

• Location: Chorlton, Manchester
• Type: Independent, Girls (11–16)
• Highlights: An outstanding Islamic independent school, it offers a comprehensive curriculum that balances academic rigor with spiritual growth. The school is known for its strong leadership and commitment to student success.

Final Thoughts

Greater Manchester’s grammar schools offer a range of options catering to diverse educational needs and preferences. From state-funded institutions with outstanding Ofsted ratings to independent schools with specialized curricula, families have access to top-tier education choices. When selecting a school, consider factors such as academic performance, extracurricular offerings, school ethos, and alignment with your child’s interests and values.