Birmingham has five King Edward VI state grammar schools — unique in England.
Birmingham is home to the King Edward VI Foundation, which runs five highly regarded state grammar schools. Camp Hill (boys and girls), Handsworth Grammar, King Edward's Aston and Five Ways are among the most sought-after schools in the West Midlands. Entry is through the 11+ selective test.
The King Edward VI Foundation manages five state grammar schools and several academies in Birmingham. Each school has slightly different admissions criteria and oversubscription rules.
Birmingham grammar schools use GL Assessment-style selection papers. Preparation should cover all four subject areas, with particular attention to Verbal Reasoning, which many children find least familiar.
Practical plan
Start Year 5: baseline, then weekly topic practice.
Summer before Year 6: 25 minutes daily across all four areas.
September–January: monthly full mock papers with mistake review.
Final weeks: timed practice and confidence sessions.
Very competitive. The King Edward VI grammar schools receive far more applications than available places. Camp Hill and Five Ways are especially sought-after.
The King Edward VI Foundation schools use a shared selection process. Check each school's admissions page for up-to-date test format details.
Yes. Birmingham grammar schools attract applicants from across the West Midlands. Check each school's admissions criteria and distance rules.