Key Information Summary
School: Manchester Grammar School
Location: Old Hall Lane, Manchester M13 0XT
School Type: Independent day school for boys
Age Range: 7-18 years
Entry Points: 7+, 11+, 13+, 16+
Telephone: 0161 224 7201
Website: www.mgs.org
Fees (2024/25): £14,040 per annum
About Manchester Grammar School
Manchester Grammar School represents one of the North West's most academically rigorous independent schools, maintaining an exceptional reputation for scholarship and character development since its foundation in 1515. Located in the heart of Manchester, MGS has educated distinguished alumni including Nobel laureates, prominent politicians, and leading figures across numerous professions.
The school's academic excellence is reflected in consistently outstanding examination results, with the vast majority of pupils progressing to Russell Group universities, including significant numbers to Oxford and Cambridge. MGS operates a selective admissions process that attracts the most able students from across Greater Manchester and beyond.
Beyond academics, the school offers an extensive co-curricular programme encompassing music, drama, sport, and numerous societies. The Combined Cadet Force, established partnerships with local communities, and international exchange programmes contribute to the school's commitment to developing well-rounded young men prepared for leadership roles in society.
The 11+ Assessment Process at Manchester Grammar School
Manchester Grammar School employs a highly competitive 11+ entrance examination designed to identify candidates with exceptional academic potential. The assessment process typically occurs in January for September entry, with approximately 1,200 candidates competing for roughly 120 places.
The examination comprises:
- English: Comprehension exercises testing reading analysis and written expression
- Mathematics: Problem-solving questions assessing mathematical reasoning and numerical fluency
- Reasoning: Verbal and non-verbal reasoning components evaluating cognitive abilities
Candidates achieving the highest marks in the written examination are invited to attend an interview, where academic potential, intellectual curiosity, and suitability for the school's ethos are assessed. The interview process allows staff to evaluate each candidate's character and commitment to learning.
Results are typically communicated in February, with successful candidates offered places for the following September. The school maintains a waiting list for exceptional candidates who narrowly miss the initial offer.
How to Apply to Manchester Grammar School
The application process for Manchester Grammar School requires careful planning and early preparation:
Registration: Parents must register their son by the end of October in Year 5 for 11+ entry. Registration forms are available on the school website and require completion with relevant supporting documentation.
Entrance Examination: The 11+ examination takes place in January, typically on a Saturday morning. Candidates attend the school for approximately three hours to complete all assessment components.
Interview Process: High-performing candidates are invited for individual interviews during February. These discussions focus on academic interests, extracurricular activities, and motivation for joining MGS.
Offers and Acceptance: Successful applicants receive offers in late February, with parents required to confirm acceptance and pay the deposit by the specified deadline.
Parents are strongly advised to visit the school during open days to understand the academic expectations and cultural environment. Early preparation through appropriate 11+ tutoring significantly enhances prospects for success in this highly competitive process.
How Taylor Tuition Can Help with Manchester Grammar School Applications
Taylor Tuition's specialist 11+ programme has successfully prepared numerous candidates for Manchester Grammar School's demanding entrance requirements. Our expert tutors understand the specific academic standards and assessment format employed by MGS, enabling targeted preparation that maximises each student's potential.
Our comprehensive approach includes:
- Diagnostic Assessment: Identifying individual strengths and areas requiring development
- Targeted Curriculum: Focused preparation covering English, Mathematics, and reasoning skills
- Practise Examinations: Regular mock tests replicating MGS conditions and timing
- Interview Preparation: Developing confidence and articulation for the selection interview
- Strategic Planning: Timeline management ensuring optimal preparation without overwhelming pressure
Our tutors' deep understanding of independent school admissions, combined with proven teaching methodologies, provides families with the expertise necessary to navigate Manchester Grammar School's competitive selection process successfully. We work closely with parents to ensure each child receives personalised support tailored to their learning style and academic profile.
Contact Taylor Tuition today to discuss how our specialist 11+ programme can support your child's application to Manchester Grammar School and secure their place at this prestigious institution.
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