Admissions Policy

Understanding Admissions Policy

The admissions policy field indicates whether a school uses academic selection to determine entry. This significantly affects the school’s intake and, consequently, its raw results.

Types of Admissions

Non-selective: The majority of state schools. Places are allocated based on criteria like distance, siblings, and catchment areas — not academic ability.

Selective: Grammar schools and some other schools that select based on academic ability, typically through the 11+ examination. Only around 5% of state schools are selective.

Not Applicable: Usually refers to special schools or other institutions where standard admissions categories don’t apply.

How Selection Works

Selective schools typically:

• Require entrance examinations (11+ or 13+)
• Set minimum score thresholds
• May interview candidates
• Often have intense competition for places

Entry is based primarily on demonstrated academic ability rather than where you live.

Impact on Results

Selection dramatically affects school results:

• Selective schools have higher raw attainment (by design)
• Progress measures are more meaningful for comparison
• A comprehensive school with strong Progress 8 may be doing better work than a grammar school with weaker Progress 8

For Parents

Consider:

• If considering grammar schools: Prepare for entrance exams, understand the competitive process
• If choosing comprehensives: Look at Progress 8 rather than raw results for a fair comparison
• Your child’s fit: Not all children thrive in selective environments; some flourish in comprehensive settings

The best school is one where your child will be happy, challenged, and supported — regardless of selection status.