Lincolnshire retains a selective education system with grammars across the county.
Lincolnshire has maintained grammar schools in several towns, including Lincoln, Louth, Alford and Caistor. Entry is through the 11+ test and the county remains one of the areas outside Kent and Buckinghamshire where selective education is widespread.
Grammar schools are distributed across the county. Lincoln has the largest cluster, but schools in Louth, Market Rasen and Caistor also serve surrounding areas.
Lincolnshire uses CEM-style tests that focus on reading, comprehension and mathematical reasoning. The papers are less predictable than GL Assessment, so well-rounded preparation matters.
Practical plan
Focus on reading stamina and vocabulary from Year 4 onwards.
Use maths reasoning practice beyond school homework.
Practise CEM-style papers in Year 6 summer term.
Check individual school registration deadlines — they vary.
Each school in Lincolnshire manages its own admissions. Contact the school directly for registration deadlines and test dates. Some use a county-wide process.
Lincolnshire schools use CEM-style tests. The format focuses on comprehension, vocabulary and mathematical reasoning rather than traditional VR and NVR papers.
It varies by school and location. Lincoln Christ's Hospital and Caistor Grammar attract applications from wide catchment areas and can be competitive.