Grammar Schools in South London (2026): Rankings, Admissions
Choosing the right Grammar Schools in South London can feel overwhelming, especially with different 11+ entrance exams, admissions criteria, registration deadlines and catchment rules to compare. From the highly competitive schools in Sutton to the academically renowned grammar schools in Bromley, understanding how each school differs is essential before submitting your application.
This guide brings everything together in one place. You’ll discover the best Grammar Schools in South London, compare admissions requirements, learn which schools use the Selective Eligibility Test (SET) or school-specific entrance exams, explore academic performance and find practical advice on when to start preparing for the 11+.
If you’re still deciding which schools to apply for, you may also find our guides to Best Grammar Schools in the UK and Grammar Schools Near Me helpful for comparing selective schools across the country.
Page Contents
Which Grammar Schools Are in South London?
Newstead Wood School
Newstead Wood School is one of the highest-performing girls’ grammar schools in Orpington, Bromley, consistently achieving excellent GCSE and A-Level results and strong university destinations. The school is highly competitive, attracting applicants from across South London thanks to its academic reputation, supportive learning environment and wide range of extracurricular opportunities.
Admission begins with the Selective Eligibility Test (SET), followed by the school’s published admissions process. As demand for places significantly exceeds availability each year, children benefit from preparing early by developing strong Maths, English and reasoning skills.
At a glance:
- School Type: State-funded girls’ grammar school
- Location: Orpington, Bromley
- Age Range: 11–18
- Admission: Selective Eligibility Test (SET)
- Known For: Outstanding academic results, excellent university destinations and highly competitive admissions
St Olave's and St Saviour's Grammar School
St Olave’s and St Saviour’s Grammar School is one of the UK’s highest-performing boys’ grammar schools, located in Orpington, Bromley. Renowned for exceptional GCSE and A-Level results, the school has an outstanding academic reputation and consistently sends students to leading Russell Group universities, including Oxford and Cambridge.
Admission is highly competitive and is based on performance in the school’s 11+ entrance examination. Children applying should begin preparing well in advance, focusing on strong Maths, English and reasoning skills to maximise their chances of securing a place.
At a glance:
- School Type: State-funded boys’ grammar school
- Location: Orpington, Bromley
- Age Range: 11–18
- Admission: School-specific 11+ entrance examination
- Known For: Outstanding academic results, Oxbridge success and highly competitive admissions
Wallington County Grammar School
Wallington County Grammar School is one of South London’s leading boys’ grammar schools, located in Wallington, Sutton. The school is recognised for its consistently excellent GCSE and A-Level results, strong STEM education and wide range of extracurricular activities. It is a popular choice for families seeking a high-achieving academic environment with excellent university progression.
Admission is through the Selective Eligibility Test (SET), with successful candidates progressing through the school’s admissions process. Competition for places is high, so early preparation is recommended.
| Wallington County Grammar School | Details |
|---|---|
| School Type | State-funded boys’ grammar school |
| Location | Wallington, Sutton |
| Age Range | 11–18 |
| 11+ Exam | Selective Eligibility Test (SET) |
| Best Known For | Academic excellence, STEM and university destinations |
Why families choose Wallington County Grammar School
- Consistently strong GCSE and A-Level results
- Excellent reputation for Maths and Science
- Wide range of sports, music and enrichment activities
- Strong progression to Russell Group universities
Wallington High School for Girls
Wallington High School for Girls is a high-achieving girls’ grammar school in Wallington, Sutton, recognised for its outstanding academic results, supportive learning environment and strong focus on developing confident, independent learners. The school consistently performs well at GCSE and A-Level, with many students progressing to leading Russell Group universities.
Entry to Year 7 begins with the Selective Eligibility Test (SET) before eligible applicants continue through the school’s admissions process. As one of the most competitive grammar schools in South London, early preparation can help children build the confidence and exam technique needed to perform at their best.
Admissions Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| School Type | State-funded girls’ grammar school |
| Location | Wallington, Sutton |
| Age Range | 11–18 |
| 11+ Entry | Selective Eligibility Test (SET) |
| Competition | Highly competitive |
Why parents consider Wallington High School for Girls
- Consistently excellent GCSE and A-Level results
- Strong reputation for academic achievement across all subjects
- Supportive pastoral care and personal development
- Excellent progression to top UK universities
Wilson's School
Wilson’s School has built a reputation as one of the UK’s leading boys’ grammar schools, consistently achieving outstanding GCSE and A-Level results. Based in Wallington, Sutton, the school combines academic excellence with a rich programme of sport, music, drama and clubs, giving students opportunities to develop both inside and outside the classroom.
What is Wilson’s School known for?
| Area | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Academic Performance | Consistently among the highest-performing state schools in England |
| STEM Education | Strong results in Maths, Science and Computing |
| Extracurricular Activities | Extensive opportunities in music, sport, debating and leadership |
| University Progression | High numbers of students progress to Russell Group and Oxbridge universities |
As one of the most competitive grammar schools in South London, entry is through the Selective Eligibility Test (SET). Families considering Wilson’s School should register for the entrance process on time and support their child with regular practice across Maths, English and reasoning to build confidence ahead of the 11+ examination.
Sutton Grammar School
Sutton Grammar School is a selective boys’ grammar school in the London Borough of Sutton, recognised for its strong academic performance and supportive school community. Alongside excellent GCSE and A-Level results, the school places a strong emphasis on personal development, encouraging pupils to take part in music, sport, leadership and a wide range of extracurricular activities.
Why do parents choose Sutton Grammar School?
Families are drawn to Sutton Grammar School for its balance of academic achievement and well-rounded education. Key reasons include:
- Consistently strong GCSE and A-Level outcomes
- A broad curriculum with excellent STEM and humanities provision
- Extensive extracurricular opportunities, including sport, music and clubs
- Strong progression to Russell Group universities and competitive degree courses
Admissions: Entry to Sutton Grammar School is through the Selective Eligibility Test (SET), followed by the school’s admissions criteria. As applications significantly exceed available places each year, children benefit from preparing well in advance of the 11+ entrance assessment.
Nonsuch High School for Girls
Nonsuch High School for Girls is one of South London’s most respected grammar schools, located in Cheam, Sutton. The school has an excellent reputation for academic achievement, consistently delivering strong GCSE and A-Level results while offering a wide range of opportunities in music, sport, languages and the arts.
Nonsuch High School at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Cheam, Sutton |
| School Type | State-funded girls’ grammar school |
| Age Range | 11–18 |
| 11+ Entry | Selective Eligibility Test (SET) |
| Sixth Form | Yes |
Beyond academic success, Nonsuch High School is known for encouraging students to develop confidence, leadership skills and independence through a broad extracurricular programme. Entry is highly competitive, so families should register for the admissions process on time and begin preparing for the 11+ well before Year 6 to give children the best chance of success.
Map of Grammar Schools in South London
Grammar schools by borough
If you’re searching for grammar schools in South London, you’ll find that they are concentrated in just two London boroughs. Sutton has the largest number of grammar schools in the capital, while Bromley is home to two highly competitive selective schools.
| Borough | Number of Grammar Schools | Schools |
|---|---|---|
| Sutton | 5 | Sutton Grammar School, Wilson’s School, Wallington County Grammar School, Wallington High School for Girls, Nonsuch High School for Girls |
| Bromley | 2 | St Olave’s and St Saviour’s Grammar School, Newstead Wood School |
For many families, borough is just one factor to consider. It’s also worth comparing each school’s 11+ entrance exam, admissions criteria, catchment area (where applicable) and travel time before deciding which schools to include on your child’s application list.
Which areas are within reach?
Many families applying to South London’s grammar schools travel from outside Sutton and Bromley. Thanks to excellent rail, bus and tram connections, these schools attract applicants from a wide catchment across South London and neighbouring counties.
| Area | Nearby Grammar Schools |
|---|---|
| Sutton | Sutton Grammar School, Wilson’s School, Wallington County Grammar School, Wallington High School for Girls, Nonsuch High School for Girls |
| Wallington | Wilson’s School, Wallington County Grammar School, Wallington High School for Girls |
| Cheam | Nonsuch High School for Girls, Sutton Grammar School |
| Carshalton | Sutton Grammar School, Wilson’s School, Wallington County Grammar School |
| Croydon | Wallington schools, Sutton Grammar School, Nonsuch High School for Girls |
| Bromley | St Olave’s and St Saviour’s Grammar School, Newstead Wood School |
| Orpington | St Olave’s and St Saviour’s Grammar School, Newstead Wood School |
| Purley | Sutton grammar schools via public transport |
| Epsom & Ewell | Sutton Grammar School, Nonsuch High School for Girls, Wilson’s School |
| Kingston upon Thames | Sutton grammar schools via rail and bus links |
Children do not have to live in Sutton or Bromley to apply to these grammar schools. However, each school has its own admissions policy, and some may use factors such as catchment areas, distance or priority zones when allocating places. Always check the latest admissions arrangements before submitting your application.
Grammar School Admissions in South London
Registration deadlines
Registration deadlines for South London grammar schools are usually between May and July of Year 5, although exact dates vary by school and can change each year. Missing the registration window may mean your child cannot sit the 11+ entrance examination, so it’s important to plan ahead.
| Stage | Typical Timing |
|---|---|
| Registration opens | April–May (Year 5) |
| Registration closes | May–July (Year 5) |
| 11+ entrance exam | September (Year 6) |
| Results released | October (Year 6) |
| Secondary school application deadline | 31 October (Year 6) |
| National Offer Day | 1 March (Year 6) |
Top tip: Registration dates differ between schools, even if they use the same entrance exam. Always check the latest admissions timetable on each school’s website and register as early as possible to avoid missing a deadline.
Catchment areas and eligibility
Unlike many comprehensive schools, grammar schools do not all use the same catchment rules. While performance in the 11+ entrance examination is essential, some schools also consider factors such as home address, priority areas or other oversubscription criteria when allocating places.
| Factor | What It Means |
|---|---|
| 11+ Performance | Your child must achieve the required standard in the entrance examination. |
| Catchment Area | Some grammar schools give priority to applicants living within a defined area. |
| Distance from School | If more children qualify than there are places available, distance may be used as a tie-breaker. |
| Looked-After Children | Priority is typically given in line with the school’s admissions policy. |
| Siblings | Some schools include sibling criteria, while others do not. |
It’s important to remember that each South London grammar school has its own admissions policy. Before applying, check the latest eligibility criteria, catchment information and oversubscription rules to understand how places are allocated and whether your child meets the requirements.
Pass marks and competition
There is no universal pass mark for South London’s grammar schools. Instead, children are ranked based on their performance in the 11+ entrance examination, with places offered to the highest-scoring applicants who also meet the school’s admissions criteria.
How competitive are South London grammar schools?
| School | Competition |
|---|---|
| Wilson’s School | Very High |
| St Olave’s and St Saviour’s Grammar School | Very High |
| Sutton Grammar School | Very High |
| Wallington County Grammar School | High |
| Wallington High School for Girls | High |
| Nonsuch High School for Girls | High |
| Newstead Wood School | High |
Rather than aiming for a specific pass mark, families should focus on helping their child achieve the highest score possible. Popular grammar schools often receive several applications for every available place, meaning even children who meet the required standard may not receive an offer if demand exceeds capacity. Starting preparation early, practising under timed conditions and developing strong Maths, English and reasoning skills can all improve a child’s chances of success.
Ready to give your child the best possible start? Our specialist 11+ teachers help children build confidence in Maths and reasoning through engaging live online lessons, structured learning and personalised feedback. Book your free trial today and discover how Think Academy can support your child’s grammar school journey.
Which 11+ Exam Does Each School Use?
Selective Eligibility Test (SET)
The Selective Eligibility Test (SET) is the shared 11+ entrance examination used by five grammar schools in the London Borough of Sutton. Sitting the SET allows your child to be considered for multiple participating grammar schools through a single assessment, making it a key part of the South London grammar school admissions process.
Which grammar schools use the SET?
| Grammar School | SET Required |
|---|---|
| Sutton Grammar School | ✅ |
| Wilson’s School | ✅ |
| Wallington County Grammar School | ✅ |
| Wallington High School for Girls | ✅ |
| Nonsuch High School for Girls | ✅ |
What does the SET assess?
The SET is designed to measure whether a child has the academic ability for grammar school education. The assessment typically includes:
- Mathematics
- English
- Verbal Reasoning
Children who achieve the required standard become eligible to progress through each school’s individual admissions process. Qualifying in the SET does not guarantee a place, as each grammar school applies its own admissions criteria and oversubscription rules.
Parent Tip: Register for the SET during Year 5 and begin preparation well before the exam. Regular practice with Maths, English and reasoning questions can help children build confidence and become familiar with the format of the assessment.
School-specific entrance exams
While most South London grammar schools use the Selective Eligibility Test (SET), not every grammar school follows the same admissions process. Some schools set their own school-specific 11+ entrance examinations, which means the format, subjects tested and selection process can differ.
| School | Entrance Exam |
|---|---|
| St Olave’s and St Saviour’s Grammar School | School-specific 11+ entrance examination |
| Newstead Wood School | School-specific 11+ entrance examination |
| Sutton Grammar School | Selective Eligibility Test (SET) |
| Wilson’s School | Selective Eligibility Test (SET) |
| Wallington County Grammar School | Selective Eligibility Test (SET) |
| Wallington High School for Girls | Selective Eligibility Test (SET) |
| Nonsuch High School for Girls | Selective Eligibility Test (SET) |
Before registering, it’s important to check each school’s admissions arrangements carefully. Schools with their own entrance examinations may assess different combinations of Mathematics, English and reasoning, have separate registration deadlines or include additional stages as part of the selection process. Understanding these differences early allows families to prepare more effectively and avoid missing key application dates.
Interview requirements
Most South London grammar schools do not require an interview as part of their Year 7 admissions process. Admission is typically based on a child’s performance in the 11+ entrance examination, alongside the school’s published admissions criteria.
| School | Interview Required? |
|---|---|
| Sutton Grammar School | ❌ No |
| Wilson’s School | ❌ No |
| Wallington County Grammar School | ❌ No |
| Wallington High School for Girls | ❌ No |
| Nonsuch High School for Girls | ❌ No |
| St Olave’s and St Saviour’s Grammar School | ❌ No |
| Newstead Wood School | ❌ No |
For the vast majority of applicants, the admissions process consists of registering for the entrance exam, sitting the assessment and meeting the school’s eligibility and oversubscription criteria. Unlike many independent schools, grammar schools generally do not assess children through interviews for Year 7 entry.
Good to know: While interviews are not normally part of the Year 7 admissions process, some grammar schools may use meetings or interviews for late entry or sixth form admissions, so it’s always worth checking the latest admissions policy for the relevant year.
Best Grammar Schools in South London
Academic performance
South London’s grammar schools are consistently ranked among the highest-performing state schools in England, with pupils achieving exceptional GCSE and A-Level results year after year. Many students progress to Russell Group universities, including Oxford and Cambridge, making these schools a popular choice for academically ambitious families.
| Grammar School | Academic Reputation | Strengths |
|---|---|---|
| Wilson’s School | Outstanding | Maths, Science, Computing |
| St Olave’s and St Saviour’s Grammar School | Outstanding | Across all academic subjects |
| Sutton Grammar School | Excellent | Balanced curriculum with strong STEM results |
| Wallington County Grammar School | Excellent | STEM and academic achievement |
| Wallington High School for Girls | Excellent | Consistently high GCSE and A-Level results |
| Nonsuch High School for Girls | Excellent | Strong performance across a broad curriculum |
| Newstead Wood School | Excellent | Academic achievement and university progression |
While league tables can be helpful, they shouldn’t be the only factor when choosing a grammar school. Parents should also consider teaching quality, extracurricular opportunities, travel time, pastoral care and whether the school’s learning environment suits their child’s strengths and interests.
GCSE and A-Level results
One of the biggest reasons families choose South London grammar schools is their consistently strong GCSE and A-Level results. Pupils regularly achieve grades well above the national average, with many schools reporting high proportions of Grade 7–9 GCSEs and A/A grades at A-Level*.
What can parents expect?
| Qualification | Typical Performance |
|---|---|
| GCSEs | High proportion of Grades 7–9 across core and optional subjects |
| A-Levels | Strong A*/A outcomes with excellent university progression |
| University Destinations | Russell Group, Oxbridge and other leading UK universities |
| Academic Support | Specialist teaching, enrichment programmes and independent learning opportunities |
While results vary slightly between schools and from year to year, Wilson’s School, St Olave’s and St Saviour’s Grammar School, Newstead Wood School and the Sutton grammar schools all have excellent academic track records. Parents should view the latest published performance data alongside factors such as subject choice, pastoral care and extracurricular opportunities when deciding which grammar school is the best fit for their child.
Popular choices for families
Every family has different priorities when choosing a grammar school. While some parents focus on league table performance, others place greater importance on location, extracurricular opportunities or the school’s learning environment.
| If you’re looking for… | Consider |
|---|---|
| One of the UK’s highest-performing grammar schools | Wilson’s School |
| Outstanding boys’ grammar school | St Olave’s and St Saviour’s Grammar School |
| High-achieving girls’ grammar school | Newstead Wood School |
| Strong all-round academic reputation | Sutton Grammar School |
| Excellent STEM opportunities | Wallington County Grammar School |
| Supportive environment for girls | Wallington High School for Girls |
| Broad curriculum and extracurricular activities | Nonsuch High School for Girls |
Ultimately, the best grammar school is the one that matches your child’s academic strengths, interests and learning style. Visiting open days, reviewing each school’s admissions policy and understanding the 11+ requirements can help families make a more informed decision before submitting their secondary school application.
South London Grammar School Comparison Table
Admissions overview
Applying to a South London grammar school involves several stages, from registering for the 11+ entrance examination to receiving a secondary school offer. Although each school has its own admissions policy, the overall process follows a similar timeline.
| Stage | What Happens? |
|---|---|
| 1. Register | Complete the school’s 11+ registration form during Year 5. |
| 2. Sit the Entrance Exam | Children take either the Selective Eligibility Test (SET) or a school-specific 11+ examination in September of Year 6. |
| 3. Receive Results | Schools release eligibility or test results before the secondary school application deadline. |
| 4. Submit School Preferences | List your chosen grammar schools on your local authority secondary school application by 31 October. |
| 5. National Offer Day | Secondary school offers are released on 1 March. |
Planning ahead: Registering early, understanding each school’s admissions criteria and preparing well for the 11+ exam can give your child the best opportunity to secure a place at a South London grammar school.
Exam provider, PAN and application dates
The table below summarises the key admissions information for South London’s grammar schools, including the 11+ exam provider, Published Admission Number (PAN) and the typical application timeline. Always check each school’s admissions policy, as dates and admission numbers may change each year.
| School | Exam Provider | Published Admission Number (PAN) | Registration | 11+ Exam |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wilson’s School | SET | Varies annually | May–July (Year 5) | September (Year 6) |
| Sutton Grammar School | SET | Varies annually | May–July (Year 5) | September (Year 6) |
| Wallington County Grammar School | SET | Varies annually | May–July (Year 5) | September (Year 6) |
| Wallington High School for Girls | SET | Varies annually | May–July (Year 5) | September (Year 6) |
| Nonsuch High School for Girls | SET | Varies annually | May–July (Year 5) | September (Year 6) |
| St Olave’s and St Saviour’s Grammar School | School-specific 11+ | Varies annually | May–July (Year 5) | September (Year 6) |
| Newstead Wood School | School-specific 11+ | Varies annually | May–July (Year 5) | September (Year 6) |
Did you know? The Published Admission Number (PAN) is the number of pupils a school intends to admit into Year 7 each year. Even if a child achieves the required standard in the 11+, receiving an offer depends on the school’s admissions criteria and the number of places available.
How to Prepare for South London Grammar School Entry
When should children start preparing?
Most children benefit from starting 11+ preparation in Year 4 or early Year 5, although the ideal time depends on their confidence, academic ability and the schools they plan to apply to. Beginning early allows children to strengthen core Maths and English skills before introducing more challenging reasoning questions and timed practice.
Rather than rushing through practice papers, parents should focus on building a solid understanding of key concepts first. As the exam approaches, children can gradually increase the amount of timed work and complete mock exams to become familiar with the pressure of the real test.
A simple preparation journey looks like this:
- Year 3: Build confidence with reading, vocabulary and everyday Maths.
- Year 4: Introduce 11+ question styles and strengthen core knowledge.
- Year 5: Follow a structured study plan with regular practice papers and mock exams.
- Year 6: Focus on exam technique, time management and improving weaker topics.
Expert tip: Starting earlier doesn’t mean studying for longer. Consistent practice of 20–30 minutes a few times each week is often more effective than cramming in the months before the exam.
Maths, English and Reasoning revision
Success in the South London 11+ isn’t just about completing lots of practice papers—it’s about developing a strong understanding of the subjects that schools assess. A balanced revision plan should focus on Mathematics, English and reasoning, helping children build confidence before introducing timed exam practice.
To prepare effectively, children should regularly revise:
- Mathematics: Arithmetic, fractions, decimals, percentages, ratios, geometry and multi-step problem-solving.
- English: Reading comprehension, grammar, punctuation, spelling and vocabulary.
- Verbal Reasoning: Word relationships, codes, sequences and logical thinking.
- Non-Verbal Reasoning: Patterns, shapes, rotations and visual problem-solving (where required by the school).
Rather than revising everything at once, encourage your child to identify weaker topics and revisit them regularly. Combining topic-based practice with full mock exams can improve both subject knowledge and exam technique, helping children feel more confident on the day of the 11+ assessment.
Recommended practice papers and mock exams
Using a combination of topic-based practice papers, full-length mock exams and timed assessments is one of the most effective ways to prepare for the South London 11+. While practice papers help children strengthen individual skills, mock exams develop confidence, stamina and time management under realistic exam conditions.
When choosing revision resources, look for materials that:
- Match your child’s target school’s 11+ exam format.
- Cover Maths, English and reasoning in line with the assessment.
- Include fully worked answers or explanations to support learning.
- Increase in difficulty as your child’s confidence grows.
- Offer timed papers to simulate real exam conditions.
As the exam approaches, regular mock exams can help children identify weaker areas, refine exam technique and become familiar with working under pressure. Reviewing mistakes after each paper is just as important as completing the questions, allowing children to build understanding rather than simply memorising answers.
Grammar Schools vs Comprehensive Schools in South London
Which option is right for your child?
Choosing the right grammar school isn’t about finding the highest-ranked school—it’s about finding the best fit for your child’s strengths, interests and learning style. While all South London grammar schools offer an excellent education, each has its own character, admissions process and areas of focus.
You may want to consider:
- Wilson’s School if your child enjoys a highly academic and competitive environment.
- St Olave’s and St Saviour’s Grammar School if you’re looking for outstanding academic results and a school-specific admissions process.
- Sutton Grammar School for a strong all-round education with a wide range of extracurricular opportunities.
- Wallington County Grammar School if your child has a particular interest in Maths, Science and STEM subjects.
- Wallington High School for Girls or Nonsuch High School for Girls for girls seeking a supportive, high-achieving learning environment.
- Newstead Wood School for excellent academic outcomes alongside a strong focus on personal development.
Before making your final choices, attend open days, review each school’s admissions policy and consider practical factors such as travel time and your child’s confidence with the 11+ exam format. The right school is one where your child will not only achieve academically but also enjoy their secondary school experience.
Whether your child is aiming for a grammar school or simply wants to strengthen their Maths skills, expert support can make a real difference. Book a free trial to discover how Think Academy helps children build confidence through engaging live online lessons.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many grammar schools are there in South London?
South London is home to several of England’s highest-performing grammar schools, with many located in the London Borough of Sutton and the London Borough of Bromley. Some of the best-known schools include Wilson’s School, Wallington County Grammar School, Wallington High School for Girls, Sutton Grammar School, Nonsuch High School for Girls, Newstead Wood School and St Olave’s and St Saviour’s Grammar School. Competition for places is extremely high, with thousands of pupils applying through the 11+ each year.
Which is the best grammar school in South London?
There is no single “best” grammar school in South London, as the right choice depends on your child’s strengths, interests and location. However, Wilson’s School is consistently ranked among the highest-performing state schools in the UK, while St Olave’s and St Saviour’s Grammar School, Wallington County Grammar School, Sutton Grammar School, Nonsuch High School for Girls and Newstead Wood School also achieve outstanding GCSE and A-Level results and have excellent university destinations.
Are grammar schools in South London free?
Yes. Grammar schools in South London are state-funded schools, meaning there are no tuition fees. Admission is based on academic ability, with children required to pass the school’s 11+ entrance examination and meet the published admissions criteria. Families should still budget for costs such as uniforms, transport, school trips and optional extracurricular activities.
Which grammar schools are in Sutton?
The London Borough of Sutton is home to four highly regarded grammar schools:
- Wilson’s School
- Wallington County Grammar School
- Wallington High School for Girls
- Sutton Grammar School
Families in Sutton also frequently consider Nonsuch High School for Girls, which serves the wider area and is part of Sutton’s selective admissions process.
What is the SET exam?
The Selective Eligibility Test (SET) is the first-stage entrance examination used by several grammar schools in Sutton, including Wilson’s School, Wallington County Grammar School, Wallington High School for Girls and Nonsuch High School for Girls. The SET assesses English and Mathematics, with the highest-scoring pupils invited to progress to a second-stage assessment where applicable. It provides a common first-round test for multiple participating grammar schools, reducing the number of separate exams children need to sit.
When do South London grammar school applications open?
Registration for most South London grammar schools typically opens during the spring or summer of Year 5, although exact dates vary by school. The 11+ entrance examinations are usually held in the autumn term of Year 6, and parents must also submit their secondary school preferences through their local authority by the national application deadline at the end of October. As admissions timelines can change each year, parents should always check each school’s official admissions page for the latest registration windows and key dates.
