Parents preparing their children for selective secondary school entrance often use “grammar school” and “independent school” interchangeably. They’re not the same thing. Understanding the difference helps you prepare more effectively — and choose the right path for your child.
Grammar Schools
Grammar schools are state-funded, academically selective secondary schools. They’re free to attend — no fees — but entry is competitive and based on passing the 11+ examination. There are around 163 grammar schools in England, concentrated in certain counties: Kent, Buckinghamshire, Lincolnshire, and parts of the West Midlands and South East have significant grammar school provision; most of the country doesn’t.
Grammar schools follow the national curriculum and enter students for standard GCSEs and A-Levels. Teaching quality varies, but the most sought-after grammar schools consistently produce excellent results and have strong cultures of academic expectation.
Independent Schools
Independent schools (also called private schools or public schools — confusingly, “public school” historically refers to the most prestigious independent schools) charge fees and are not state-funded. Entry is typically through their own entrance exam, interview, and sometimes a report from the child’s current school. Many use the 11+ or their own equivalent at 11; others have 13+ entry points.
Independent schools have more flexibility over curriculum, school day, activities, and ethos. Some offer the IGCSE rather than standard GCSE, which is why IGCSE preparation is particularly relevant for children applying to or attending independent schools.
Key Differences at a Glance
- Cost: Grammar schools are free; independent schools charge fees (typically £5,000–£15,000+ per term)
- Availability: Grammar schools exist only in certain areas; independent schools exist across the country
- Entry: Both use selective exams, but independent schools also often interview and assess holistically
- Curriculum: Grammar schools follow the national curriculum; independent schools have more flexibility
- Qualifications: Both typically offer A-Levels; some independent schools also offer IB or IGCSE
Which Is Better for Your Child?
There’s no universal answer. Grammar schools offer excellent education at no cost — a genuinely transformative opportunity for academically able children who wouldn’t otherwise access this standard of secondary education. Independent schools offer breadth, flexibility, and (often) smaller class sizes, but at significant financial cost. The right choice depends on your location, your child’s temperament and interests, your financial circumstances, and which specific schools are realistically available.
What both paths have in common: they require preparation, and strong English is essential to both. Whether the entrance exam is GL Assessment, CEM, or a school’s own paper, reading comprehension, writing ability, and vocabulary are always assessed.
Thorogood English’s 11+ English preparation builds exactly the skills both grammar school and independent school entrance exams assess. Join the waiting list for January 2027.
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