Bishop Vesey's Grammar School
Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands · B74 2NH
Bishop Vesey's Grammar School is a highly selective, state-funded boys' grammar school with an exceptional 495-year heritage in Sutton Coldfield. Holding an Ofsted Outstanding rating, it ranks among the leading state schools nationally and competes favourably with fee-paying independents. The school combines rigorous academics with a well-rounded education, underpinned by a strong pastoral house system and ambitious co-curricular provision.
- →Ofsted Outstanding status and proven track record of academic excellence ranking above many independent schools
- →State-funded tuition with no fees, removing financial barrier to grammar school education
- →70% of sixth-formers progress to Russell Group universities, including Oxbridge
- →Strong pastoral care and house system fostering belonging and leadership development
- →Broad co-curricular offer including Mandarin Excellence Programme, competitive sport, and drama
Who thrives here
Able, intellectually curious boys and girls with strong primary school attainment who thrive in a selective, academically rigorous environment and benefit from structured pastoral support. The school suits pupils seeking a traditional grammar school experience without fees.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
Lichfield Road
Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands
B74 2NH
Nearest stations
Notable alumni
Jack Butland
England international footballer (Stoke City, Watford)
Recent investment
Frequently asked questions
How much does Bishop Vesey's Grammar School cost?
Bishop Vesey's Grammar School is a state grammar school, so there are no tuition fees — places are free and allocated by the 11-plus exam and the school’s admissions criteria.
How do you get into Bishop Vesey's Grammar School?
Bishop Vesey's Grammar School admits pupils at 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by 11+ Selective Examination. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.
What are Bishop Vesey's Grammar School's exam results?
At Bishop Vesey's Grammar School, 45.2% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 76.2% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.
Is Bishop Vesey's Grammar School a boarding school?
Bishop Vesey's Grammar School is a day school in Sutton Coldfield and does not offer boarding.
What is Bishop Vesey's Grammar School's latest inspection rating?
Ofsted rated Bishop Vesey's Grammar School “Outstanding” (2024).
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Outstanding Ofsted rating and proven exam outcomes translating to university progression
✓Strong pastoral care and house system fostering sense of belonging and peer mentoring
✓Exceptional value for money as state-funded grammar school competing with independents
✓Warm, engaged teaching staff who know pupils individually and care about their development
✓Broad and balanced curriculum with distinctive programmes (Mandarin, EPQ, sport)
✓Well-organised admissions process with free 11+ support removing barrier to entry
Common concerns
!Selective entry and rigorous pace may create anxiety for families new to grammar system
!Limited visibility on SEND provision and inclusivity for pupils with additional needs
!No independent inspection data available (Ofsted rating inherited from predecessor designation); school awaiting first independent inspection cycle
!Travel logistics for pupils from across wider Midlands region may be demanding