Manchester boasts a diverse array of sixth form colleges renowned for their academic excellence, supportive environments, and pathways to top universities. Based on the latest A-Level performance data and institutional highlights, here are the top 10 sixth form colleges in Manchester for 2025:
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1. Altrincham Grammar School for Girls (AGGS)
- Location: Bowdon, Altrincham
- Type: State Grammar, Girls
- Highlights: AGGS consistently ranks among the top state schools nationally. In 2023, 59.6% of A-Level entries achieved A*-A grades, and 94.5% achieved A*-C grades. The school offers a broad curriculum and a wide range of extracurricular activities. (Wikipedia)
2. Loreto Grammar School
- Location: Altrincham
- Type: State Grammar, Girls
- Highlights: Loreto Grammar School has a strong academic record, with a Progress 8 score of 1.07 in 2023/24, indicating ‘well above average’ performance. The school emphasizes both academic achievement and personal development.
3. Altrincham Grammar School for Boys (AGSB)
- Location: Altrincham
- Type: State Grammar, Boys
- Highlights: AGSB achieved an exceptional Progress 8 score of 1.32 in 2023/24, placing it in the ‘well above average’ category nationally. The school is recognized for its strong academic performance and comprehensive curriculum. (Wikipedia, Britannia Study)
4. Eden Boys’ Leadership Academy, Manchester
- Location: Cheetham Hill, Manchester
- Type: State Academy, Boys
- Highlights: An Islamic faith-based school, Eden Boys’ Leadership Academy recorded an impressive Progress 8 score of 1.2 in 2023/24, reflecting its commitment to academic achievement and character development. (The Guardian)
5. Saint Ambrose College
- Location: Hale Barns, Trafford
- Type: State Grammar, Boys
- Highlights: This Catholic grammar school achieved a Progress 8 score of 1.04 in 2023/24, placing it in the ‘well above average’ category. The school emphasizes both academic rigor and moral education.
6. Xaverian College
- Location: Rusholme, Manchester
- Type: State Sixth Form College
- Highlights: Xaverian College is known for its strong academic performance and supportive environment. It offers a wide range of A-Level courses and has a track record of students progressing to top universities. (The Student Room)
7. Loreto College
- Location: Hulme, Manchester
- Type: State Sixth Form College
- Highlights: Loreto College offers a broad curriculum and has a strong emphasis on student support. It has a history of students achieving excellent A-Level results and progressing to higher education. (The Student Room)
8. Holy Cross College
- Location: Bury, Greater Manchester
- Type: State Sixth Form College
- Highlights: Holy Cross College achieved a 96% A-Level pass rate in 2023. The college offers a variety of A-Level and vocational courses and has a strong record of students progressing to university. (Wikipedia)
9. Abbey College Manchester
- Location: Manchester City Centre
- Type: Independent Sixth Form College
- Highlights: Abbey College Manchester offers A-Level and International Foundation Programme pathways. In 2022, 38% of A-Level exam entries were awarded A*-A grades. The college provides a supportive environment with a focus on individual student needs. (Wikipedia)
10. Connell Co-op College
- Location: East Manchester
- Type: State Sixth Form College
- Highlights: In 2024, Connell Co-op College achieved a 95% A-Level pass rate, with 61% of students achieving all grades at A*-C. The college emphasizes both academic achievement and personal development. (connell.ac.uk)
Conclusion
Manchester’s sixth form colleges offer a diverse range of options for students aiming for A-Level success. From selective grammar schools to inclusive state colleges, each institution provides unique strengths to support students’ academic and personal growth. When choosing a sixth form college, consider factors such as course offerings, support services, and the college’s track record in facilitating progression to higher education or employment.
