Exploring Partially Selective Schools: What Parents Need to Know

As secondary school admissions grow increasingly competitive, many parents are considering partially selective schools as an option for their children. These schools offer a unique blend of selective and non-selective education, but understanding how they work—and how they relate to the 11 Plus exam—is essential.

This guide breaks down everything parents need to know, from what partially selective schools are to how they admit students and how they differ from grammar or fully selective schools.

What Is a Partially Selective School?

A partially selective school (also called a “bilateral school” or “part-selective academy”) is a state-funded secondary school that admits a percentage of its pupils based on academic ability, aptitude in subjects like music or sport, or other criteria—while the remaining places are open to local applicants or filled through a standard admissions process.

Unlike fully selective grammar schools, which select all pupils based on academic performance (often via the 11 Plus exam), partially selective schools may only test a portion of their intake.

How Are Students Selected?

Admissions procedures vary between schools, but generally, partially selective schools follow one or more of these methods:

• Academic Selection: Pupils sit entrance tests, often similar in style or difficulty to the 11 Plus.
• Aptitude Testing: Some schools select based on specific talents such as music, drama, or sport.
• Non-Selective Entry: Remaining spots are filled by siblings, proximity to the school, or faith-based criteria (in religious schools).

It’s common for these schools to publish an admissions breakdown, stating the number of selective and non-selective places available.

Do You Need to Take the 11 Plus for a Partially Selective School?

This depends on the school. Many partially selective schools use their own entrance exams rather than the standard 11 Plus, but these tests can be similar in content, focusing on:

• Verbal reasoning
• Non-verbal reasoning
• English
• Mathematics

Some schools may even participate in local consortium testing, which aligns with grammar school entry requirements.

Tip: Always check the admissions policy of each school you’re applying to. Some may require registration months in advance, especially for aptitude assessments.

How Do Partially Selective Schools Compare to Grammar Schools?

Feature	Grammar Schools	Partially Selective Schools
Selection Criteria	100% based on academics (11 Plus)	Partial: academics, aptitude, or catchment
Entry Test	11 Plus	School-specific (often similar)
Admissions Competition	Very high	High, but slightly more accessible
Curriculum Rigour	Academic-focused	Mix of academic and mainstream

Some partially selective schools have academic streams that rival grammar school standards, while still offering a more diverse classroom environment.

What Are the Benefits of Partially Selective Schools?

• Balanced Learning Environment: A blend of academically gifted students and others fosters social diversity and peer learning.
• Opportunities for Talented Children: Children with musical, sporting, or artistic aptitude may find more tailored support.
• Reduced Pressure: Since not all students are selected by exams, the environment may feel less intense than grammar schools.
• Multiple Routes of Entry: You can still secure a place without excelling solely in academics.

Are There Any Drawbacks?

• Admissions Complexity: Each school has different tests, deadlines, and processes—easy to overlook.
• Unpredictable Catchment: With selective criteria, living near the school may not guarantee a place.
• Inconsistent Academic Standards: While some selective streams are very strong, others may vary within the same school.

Should You Consider a Partially Selective School if Your Child Is Taking the 11 Plus?

Absolutely. Even if your child is preparing for grammar school entry via the 11 Plus, partially selective schools make excellent backup or alternative choices. The tests are often similar, so preparation overlaps, and the diversity of the student body can benefit your child’s development in ways that purely selective environments might not.

Choosing the Right Fit

Partially selective schools offer a middle ground, allowing students to thrive in both academic and holistic settings. If your child is sitting the 11 Plus, these schools provide a logical extension of your application strategy, offering flexibility, strong performance, and a well-rounded environment.

Frequently Asked Questions