Ilford, Essex · IG6 2JB
Ilford County High School is a selective boys' grammar school in Essex serving the Ilford area with around 1,138 pupils across years 7–13. It maintains a traditional grammar school ethos while embracing modern pastoral initiatives, as evidenced by its Rainbow Flag Award and UNICEF Rights Respecting School status. The school balances academic rigour with breadth, offering strong enrichment in arts, sport, and personal development.
Who thrives here
Academically able boys who thrive in a traditional grammar setting and benefit from a structured, supportive pastoral environment. Pupils interested in arts, sport, or leadership will find multiple pathways.
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
Fremantle Road, Barkingside
Ilford, Essex
IG6 2JB
Nearest stations
Ilford County High 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.
Ilford County High 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.
At Ilford County High School, 35.4% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 67.9% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.
Ilford County High School is a day school in Ilford and does not offer boarding.
Ofsted rated Ilford County High School “Good” (2021).
Frequently praised
✓Strong pastoral care and house system creating a sense of community and belonging
✓Inclusive, progressive ethos evident in Rainbow Flag and Rights Respecting awards
✓Broad enrichment offer balancing academics with arts, sport, and personal development
✓Well-organised sixth form with clear leadership pathway
Common concerns
!Not yet inspected by Ofsted, making independent verification of standards difficult for prospective parents