Grammar schools in Dorset
There are no grammar schools in Dorset.
Grammar schools are state secondaries that select by ability, usually through an 11+ test. Only 47 of the 226 local authorities in the UK still have any — Dorset is one of the majority that does not, so local state secondaries admit without a selective test.
The nearest is Parkstone Grammar School, about 13.7 miles away in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole. Most grammar schools accept out-of-area applicants, though distance is often a tie-breaker when a school is oversubscribed.
Nearest grammar schools to Dorset
Straight-line distance from the centre of Dorset — not a travel time.
| School | Area | Distance | Intake | Ofsted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Parkstone Grammar School | Poole | 13.7 miles | Girls | Not judged |
| Poole Grammar School | Poole | 13.8 miles | Boys | Not judged |
| Bournemouth School | Bournemouth | 19.1 miles | Boys | Outstanding |
| Bournemouth School for Girls | Bournemouth | 19.3 miles | Girls | Outstanding |
| Bishop Wordsworth's Church of England Grammar School | Salisbury | 28.5 miles | Boys | Outstanding |
| South Wilts Grammar School | Salisbury | 29.0 miles | Girls | Good |
Schools in Dorset
Dorset has open schools. Browse all Dorset schools with Ofsted ratings, catchment areas and admission criteria, or see them on the map.
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