Enfield Grammar School Review 2026: Historic Roots, Modern Outlook

Founded in 1558, Enfield Grammar School sits in the heart of Enfield Town, where its Tudor Old Hall stands in contrast to the surrounding modern high street. Despite the name, this is not a selective grammar school but a comprehensive academy for boys aged 11 to 18. It serves a diverse local community; the intake is non-selective, yet the school retains the trappings of its history. With over 1,000 students, the school balances its heritage with the practical demands of modern boys' education.

The school’s motto, Tant Que Je Puis (As much as I can), is woven into the fabric of daily life. The campus is a unique blend of the ancient and the functional; the Grade II* listed Old Hall is used for assemblies and events, providing a tangible link to the past that few state schools can match. However, the majority of learning happens in more standard blocks that have been added over the decades.

Mr Christopher Lamb has led the school since 2017. His tenure has focused on maintaining stability and fostering a culture of responsibility. The atmosphere is described by parents as friendly but disciplined. Being a boys' school, there is a strong emphasis on channelling energy into sport and active learning. The location in the town centre means students are very much part of the local fabric, and the "walk through town" is a rite of passage for older students.

Academic performance at GCSE is solid. In 2024, the school ranked 1,821st in England and 16th in Enfield for GCSE outcomes (FindMySchool ranking). This places performance in the national typical band, reflecting solid performance in line with the middle 35% of schools in England.

The average Attainment 8 score of 48.5 sits above the England average of 45.9, suggesting students generally achieve higher grades than their peers nationally. The Progress 8 score of -0.05 indicates that students make progress broadly in line with expectations given their starting points.

At A-level, the school ranks 1,899th in England and 17th in Enfield. The 2024 results show 33.8% of grades at A*-B, compared to an England average of 47.2%. While some students achieve highly (evidenced by one student securing a place at Oxbridge in 2024) the sixth form generally serves a broad ability range rather than just an academic elite.

The curriculum is broad and traditional, designed to engage boys through structure and clear expectations. Key Stage 3 covers the full National Curriculum range, while Key Stage 4 keeps the English Baccalaureate central; 11.5% of pupils achieved strong passes (grade 5+) in the full suite of EBacc subjects.

Teachers are experienced in boys' education, often using competition and practical examples to drive engagement. Support for those with Special Educational Needs (SEN) is fully integrated, with teaching assistants deployed in core subjects.

University remains the primary destination for sixth formers. In 2024, 53% of leavers progressed to university. The school has a functional pipeline to the Russell Group, though numbers are not as high as fully selective neighbours.

Alternative pathways are well-supported, reflecting the comprehensive intake. 8% of leavers moved into apprenticeships, and 17% into employment, supported by a careers programme that maintains strong links with local businesses and alumni.

Admission is competitive, though not based on academic exams. In 2024, the school received 502 applications for 172 offers, resulting in a ratio of approximately 2.9 applications per place.

Enfield Grammar operates under a unique admissions policy. While it is comprehensive, it reserves up to 10% of places (18 places total) for aptitude in specialist areas: 9 places for Sport and 9 places for Music. The remaining places are allocated primarily on distance.

Families interested in the specialist places must register for aptitude tests in the autumn term of Year 6 (typically September or October). For general entry, applications are made via the Enfield Local Authority Common Application Form by the national deadline of 31 October.

The pastoral system is organised by Year Groups, with Heads of Year tracking both behaviour and wellbeing. The school utilises a House system to foster competition and belonging, vital in a boys' school context.

Ofsted rated the school Good in 2018, a judgement confirmed by the most recent school inspection in January 2024. Inspectors noted that pupils feel safe and that bullying is dealt with effectively when reported. The town centre location presents challenges regarding external influences, but the school manages this through strict boundary policies and close liaison with parents.

Extracurricular life is a major pillar of the school, particularly sport. The PE department is active, fielding teams in rugby, football, cricket, and basketball that compete successfully at borough and county levels. The onsite sports hall and gym are well-used, though outdoor space is tighter than at suburban schools.

Music is the second major pillar. The aptitude places ensure a steady stream of talent for the school bands and choir. Drama productions and debating societies offer outlets for creative expression.

The school day runs from 8:40am to 3:10pm. The central location in Enfield Town ensures excellent transport links, with Enfield Town and Enfield Chase stations both within short walking distance. Bus routes from across the borough stop nearby.

Not a selective grammar. Despite the historic name, this is a comprehensive academy. Families seeking a selective "11-plus" academic environment should be aware that admission is based on distance and aptitude (Sport/Music), not an academic entrance exam.

Town centre setting. The location provides great transport links but means the site is split and busy. It lacks the sprawling green fields of some perimeter schools, though it makes efficient use of its space.

A-level performance. While GCSE results are solid, A-level performance falls into the national lower band. Students with very high academic aspirations may need to be self-driven or consider whether the sixth form provision matches their specific subject needs.

Enfield Grammar School offers a distinctive choice: a historic single-sex education without the pressure of an academic entrance exam. It provides a grounded, supportive environment where boys can succeed, particularly if they have a passion for sport or music. Best suited to local boys who will thrive in a busy, active school with a strong sense of tradition and community. The main challenge is securing a place given the high number of applications.