The North Halifax Grammar School
Halifax, West Yorkshire · HX2 9SU
The North Halifax Grammar School is a selective state grammar school serving pupils across the Calderdale area, admitting on the basis of the 11-plus examination. With nearly 1,250 pupils and a well-established sixth form, NHGS combines academic rigour with a broad enrichment programme captured in its motto 'Living to Learn, Learning to Live'. The school draws from a wide catchment across West Yorkshire and prides itself on providing grammar school opportunity to a diverse community of high-ability pupils regardless of background.
- →Selective academic environment with strong A-level and GCSE outcomes at no fee cost
- →Broad enrichment offer through the 'Ambit' programme covering clubs, activities and leadership
- →Sixth form with dedicated electives, UCAS support and apprenticeship pathways via 'NHGS Futures'
Who thrives here
Academically able pupils who thrive in a structured, intellectually challenging environment and are self-motivated enough to engage with the wide range of enrichment on offer. Students who appreciate a community grammar ethos rather than a fee-paying independent school culture will feel at home here.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
Moorbottom Road, Illingworth
Halifax, West Yorkshire
HX2 9SU
Nearest stations
Recent investment
Frequently asked questions
How much does The North Halifax Grammar School cost?
The North Halifax 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 The North Halifax Grammar School?
The North Halifax 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 The North Halifax Grammar School's exam results?
At The North Halifax Grammar School, 19.4% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 52.6% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.
Is The North Halifax Grammar School a boarding school?
The North Halifax Grammar School is a day school in Halifax and does not offer boarding.
What is The North Halifax Grammar School's latest inspection rating?
Ofsted rated The North Halifax Grammar School “Good” (2023).
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Strong academic results relative to the local area and good value as a free grammar school
✓Wide range of enrichment activities through Ambit keeping pupils engaged beyond the classroom
✓Supportive sixth form with clear progression routes including both university and apprenticeships
Common concerns
!Some parents note that the school's size (1,238 pupils) can make it feel impersonal and that individual pupils can be overlooked
!Travel to the suburban Halifax location can be challenging for pupils from outlying villages without direct bus routes