Poole Grammar School
Poole, Dorset · BH17 9JU
AAB+ A-level
32.1%
9–7 GCSE
56%
Pupils
1,199
Inspection
Not yet inspected
Poole Grammar School is a selective day-only boys' grammar school serving Years 7–13 in Dorset with a strong emphasis on academic excellence balanced with character education and moral development. Under relatively recent leadership (Mrs Katie Etheridge as Head), the school positions itself as blending tradition with ambition, fostering a community ethos alongside competitive academic standards. With nearly 1,200 pupils across the 11–18 range, it operates as a substantial regional grammar with visible investment in enrichment, from GCHQ partnerships to joint dramatic productions with neighbouring Parkstone Grammar.
- →Selective entry ensures cohort of academically able peers; strong track record in grammar school system
- →Explicit character education model centred on four virtues (Compassion, Integrity, Respect, Wisdom) appeals to parents seeking moral framework alongside academics
- →Day-only model with reasonable proximity to Poole makes it accessible without boarding complexity; established sixth form pathway
Who thrives here
Academically able boys aged 11–18 who can pass the 11+ or 13+ entrance exams, particularly those who thrive in a structured, tradition-respecting environment with a balanced offer of competitive academics, team sport, music, and character development. Boys with strong motivation and parental support tend to flourish.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
Gravel Hill
Poole, Dorset
BH17 9JU
Nearest stations
Frequently asked questions
How much does Poole Grammar School cost?
Poole 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 Poole Grammar School?
Poole 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 Poole Grammar School's exam results?
At Poole Grammar School, 32.1% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 56% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.
Is Poole Grammar School a boarding school?
Poole Grammar School is a day school in Poole and does not offer boarding.
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Academic rigour and strong teaching in core subjects; selective intake creates motivated peer group
✓Character education and values-based approach (Compassion, Integrity, Respect, Wisdom) resonate with parents seeking moral framework
✓Strong pastoral care, mental health support, and structured wellbeing provision alongside academics
Common concerns
!Not yet Ofsted-inspected, so independent verification of quality limited; reliance on school-provided data and sector reputation
!Grammar school selectivity may create pressure and competitiveness not suited to all boys; pastoral support demand likely high in such cohort