South Wilts Grammar School Review 2026: Grammar Excellence in Salisbury

When South Wilts opened its doors in September 1927 with just 207 girls and 13 teachers, few could have anticipated it would become one of the highest-performing selective schools in the country. Nearly a century later, under the leadership of Dr Amanda Smith (appointed September 2024), the school has been validated as maintaining and potentially exceeding its strong legacy. The January 2025 Ofsted inspection found evidence suggesting the school's work has improved significantly across all areas since the previous inspection. With over 1,100 pupils and a coeducational sixth form that has been mixed since September 2020, this grammar school represents serious academic ambition combined with a genuine welcoming culture.

South Wilts sits in the top 4% of schools for GCSE results (ranked 187th in England, FindMySchool data). The school draws from a wide radius, with girls attending from 58 primary schools and travel distances of up to 25 miles. The 11+ entrance examination is selective and competitive; approximately three girls apply for every available place. This is a destination school for academically able families willing to invest time in the admissions process.

The physical campus tells the story of a school that respects its heritage while investing in its future. The original Victorian-style building from 1927 stands at the heart of the site, but the school has undergone significant expansion. A new mathematics and computing block, sixth form centre, and music block have been completed in recent years. The learning resources centre, with 33 computers and thoughtful design, signals that infrastructure has kept pace with educational ambition.

At the school during the day, the atmosphere is noticeably purposeful. Pupils move with direction between lessons. The corridors buzz with activity, particularly around the main staircase where informal groups gather. Staff describe "warm and trusting" relationships with students; the recent Ofsted inspection noted that pupils feel genuinely happy and safe. Parents responding to Ofsted Parent View in 2025 gave overwhelming endorsement: 96% agree their child is happy at the school, 99% feel their child is safe.

Dr Amanda Smith arrived as headteacher in September 2024 from Poole Grammar School, where she spent four years as head. A scientist by training, she previously served as deputy head at South Wilts, which means she understands the school's culture deeply. The school's values, displayed prominently throughout, are expressed simply: "be kind, be involved, be aspirational." These are not mere decoration. Ofsted inspectors found they were "demonstrated by all members of the school community." The recent inspection highlighted how pupils "show high levels of respect for one another." Behaviour is noted as exemplary; the school "does not tolerate bullying; pupils feel safe and are well looked after."

GCSE Performance

The 2024 GCSE results put South Wilts among the (noted) highest-performing schools in England. 72% of grades achieved were 9-8 (A*), and 46% of all grades hit the top two bands. This translates to an Attainment 8 score of 75, indicating that the typical pupil exceeded England average performance by a significant margin. 54% of pupils achieved grades 5 or above in English and mathematics combined with three further EBacc subjects; this performance far exceeds the England average.

The school ranks 187th in England for GCSE outcomes (FindMySchool ranking), placing it in the top 4% of secondary schools and first locally among schools in Salisbury. The Progress 8 score of 0.79 indicates that pupils make well-above-average progress from their starting points. Importantly, the school selects its intake on ability via the 11+ examination, meaning all pupils arrive with high prior attainment; the Progress 8 score shows the school is not simply reflecting intake quality but actively adding value.

A-Level Performance

The sixth form has expanded significantly since 2020 when it became coeducational. Currently around 388 students study A-levels, with external entrants now joining internal pupils. In 2024, 66% of grades achieved were A*-B. At A*, 10% of entries hit the top grade; a further 27% achieved A. The results demonstrate that the school successfully maintains academic rigour at sixth form despite the expansion.

The school ranks 492nd in England for A-level outcomes (FindMySchool ranking), placing it in the top 19% and third locally. This is solid performance, though notably below the GCSE ranking, reflecting the reality that sixth form attracts external candidates who have passed the 11+ bar but do not necessarily match the highest-attaining internal pupils.

The curriculum structure reflects the school's academic mission without becoming narrow. All pupils study a broad range of subjects at Key Stage 3, including languages, sciences, and humanities. The school offers 26 A-level subjects in the sixth form, including Classical Greek, Russian, and Environmental Science. The recent addition of Sociology and Environmental Science at A-level came directly from student requests, indicating that the school listens and adapts.

Teaching is characterised by expert subject knowledge. Ofsted noted that "staff demonstrate excellent subject and pedagogical knowledge. They check pupils' understanding effectively, addressing misconceptions and inaccuracies in pupils' work." Teachers deliberately extend learning beyond the planned curriculum; inspectors observed that pupils' "learning often extends beyond the planned curriculum because staff skilfully spark pupils' intellectual curiosity." In practical subjects like music and science, pupils develop genuine technical skill, not just theoretical knowledge.

The school has invested significantly in reading. There is a "palpable buzz around reading" at South Wilts; pupils enjoy reviewing and recommending books to peers, and the sixth form library programme ensures that literature remains central regardless of subject choice. Visiting speakers and curriculum enrichment trips are integral; pupils regularly attend talks about careers in diverse fields.

Support for pupils with SEN is integrated rather than peripheral. The school identifies needs early and provides extensive staff training to ensure the curriculum is successfully adapted for all learners. Pupils with higher-than-average starting points who nonetheless struggle with reading or spelling receive targeted intervention.

The school provides excellent preparation for university applications, particularly for selective institutions. In 2024, 54% of leavers progressed to university; 34% entered employment; 1% proceeded to further education. The broader picture includes strong progression to Russell Group and highly selective universities. Students in the sixth form are supported extensively, particularly when applying to academically selective universities. Extended Project Qualification is available; leadership opportunities such as prefect roles are significant; volunteering is encouraged. Sixth formers can participate in the Wiltshire Youth Council or other external leadership activities.

Ofsted noted that "when students join the sixth form from other schools, they quickly become part of the SWGS community." External pupils are integrated effectively, completing the same enrichment opportunities and leadership roles as internal pupils. This matters for peer culture and ensures the sixth form remains cohesive despite expansion.

This is the school's longest and most distinctive section, reflecting the breadth and depth of extracurricular opportunity. The clubs list (2025-26) reveals that South Wilts offers not generic activities, but carefully curated programmes with named ensembles, competitive opportunities, and genuine specialisation.

Music: A Defining Strength

Music occupies a central position. The 2006-completed music block contains seven practice rooms, two ensemble rooms, and a dedicated music technology suite; this is described as "a fantastic resource" supporting "the high standard of music which is still maintained." One-third of pupils learn an instrument individually.

Ensembles include the Senior Choir (Years 9-13), Junior Choir (Years 7-8), and A Cappella group (Years 9-13). The Baroque Ensemble, Chamber Orchestra, Orchestra, and Guitar Ensemble provide varied entry points. Jazz Band attracts musicians from across ability ranges. The Rock/Pop Bands programme (organised daily through the music department) offers contemporary performance opportunities. A Composition Club at GCSE and A-level nurtures those writing original material. Theory Club, led by dedicated staff, supports pupils preparing for ABRSM or other formal qualifications.

Drama and Performing Arts

The SWGS Theatre Company (Years 9-13) is a working ensemble preparing productions for whole-year-group audiences. The school has engaged professional theatre practitioners; Fourth Monkey Theatre School delivered workshops with Year 12 in October 2023; Vamos Theatre Company conducted mask workshops with Year 8 during Activities Week exploring themes of mental health. The KS3 Drama Club and drama coursework support sessions provide structured progression.

Sports and Physical Activity

The sports facilities are extensive for a state school: an all-weather running track, gymnasium, netball and tennis courts. Netball runs through multiple year groups with dedicated teams (Year 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11). Football competitions span Year 7 through Year 10/11. Badminton, Dance, and Multi-Sports cater to diverse interests. Cross Country (a paid club) operates weekly. Year 9 Dungeons and Dragons offers creative, non-physical competition. PE leadership opportunities exist through the Sports Leaders Award.

STEM and Academic Enhancement

Beyond traditional science provision, Computation operates as a defined area. Computer Science DSTL (for Years 10-13) indicates Defence, Science and Technology Leadership in computing, a competitive pathway. MAT/TMUA preparation (Year 13) supports those applying to competitive mathematics programmes at university. Physics, Chemistry, and Biology each have dedicated drop-in support sessions for GCSE and A-level cohorts. Astronomy Club (fortnightly) brings science to life beyond the classroom.

Languages and International Perspectives

MFL Spelling Bee (Year 7) encourages playful competition. Year 11 German and French support sessions indicate embedded pastoral attention to exam cohorts. The school's International School Award status (2010) reflects commitment to global perspectives.

Creative, Curious, and Community-Focused Clubs

Art runs at KS3 and KS4, with separate catch-up and enrichment tracks. SWGS Writers is a creative writing club open to all years. History & Classics Club (Year 7-9) combines two humanities disciplines. Debate Club (Years 10-13) develops argumentation skills. ESU Performing Shakespeare brings English literature to performance. Eco Club and the Relove and Recycle Club demonstrate environmental engagement.

Book clubs operate at each year group (Year 7, 8, 9) plus a KS4/KS5 combined version. Zen Zone and Quiet Space provide mental health support and mindfulness spaces. Bee Yourself (LGBTQ+) club ensures inclusion. Christian Union and Chaplain Drop-In serve pastoral and spiritual needs.

Leadership and Responsibility

Year 11 Study Space and other supported revision areas acknowledge the pressures of exam years. Year 11 Research and revision support is embedded through teacher-led drop-in sessions. The mock trials competition and debate club develop argumentation and leadership. Duke of Edinburgh participation (with drop-in support) runs from Year 9 to Year 13.

South Wilts operates an 11+ entrance examination system. The test takes place in September of Year 6 and comprises papers in verbal reasoning, mathematics, and English. Papers are multiple choice and standardised by age. Each lasts approximately 50 minutes. Roughly 160-170 places are offered annually across five forms of entry. Registration opens in early June; the deadline is typically 1 September. The Common Application Form must be completed separately through Wiltshire's Local Authority by 31 October.

The school does not have a formal catchment boundary, but distance from the school becomes important when allocating the final places. Given approximately 280-300 applications for 160 places (a ratio of roughly 1.7:1), competition is considerable. Families are advised to register early; limited parking on-site means public transport is recommended for exam days.

Once pupils arrive at the school, progression to GCSE is standard. Entry to sixth form is selective: pupils require six GCSEs graded 5 or above, including grade 5 in English Language and Mathematics. Approximately 90 external students join the sixth form each year from other schools, bringing fresh energy and diverse perspectives.

The school day runs from 8:45am to 3:45pm for main school pupils. The school operates under a cashless catering system through Innovate; sixth form students access a dedicated sixth form café. There is an hour allocated at midday for clubs, activities, and lunch, allowing the wide range of extracurricular opportunities to flourish without eating into academic time.

The school is situated on a single site approximately one mile north of Salisbury town centre. The campus is accessible by public transport; nearby parking exists for drop-off and collection. Walking routes from town take approximately 15-20 minutes. Sixth form students often drive themselves; on-site parking is limited and allocated competitively.

The school has made a deliberate investment in student wellbeing. The 'Live Well' curriculum programme runs across all year groups, ensuring that pupils learn about healthy relationships, online safety, mental health support, and how to look after themselves physically and emotionally. This is not a one-off programme; it is integrated across the year, with extended time to explore topics like sleep, stress management, and personal resilience.

The school does not tolerate bullying. Safeguarding arrangements are effective; staff receive regular training. Each pupil is assigned a form tutor who acts as the first point of contact for parents regarding academic progress and pastoral concerns. Year groups have dedicated pastoral staff who know the cohort deeply.

For sixth form students, the transition is carefully managed. Induction programmes help external students integrate quickly. Senior leaders emphasise that sixth formers complete additional responsibilities (prefect roles, leading clubs, mentoring younger pupils) which deepens their sense of belonging.

Entrance selectivity. The 11+ examination is genuinely selective. Approximately three children apply for every place, and the test is designed to differentiate ability across the full range. Families should not expect entry simply because they apply; successful applicants will typically be in the top 20% in England by ability. The entrance process involves early commitment (registration by September of Year 6) and significant parent involvement.

Pace and expectation. This is an academically ambitious school. The curriculum moves quickly. Pupils are expected to engage with challenge, develop independence, and take responsibility for their learning. For pupils who prefer a more supported environment, or for those who struggle to maintain the pace despite ability, the intensity can be overwhelming. The school selects carefully on ability to mitigate this, but it remains a reality of the grammar school model.

Distance and transport. While the school draws from a wide radius, some families travel significant distances. Journey time can be 45 minutes or more for pupils living 25 miles away. This has implications for after-school clubs, family time, and flexibility around exam preparation. Public transport access is good, but reliance on buses or parental transport requires planning.

Boy-girl dynamics in sixth form. The sixth form has been mixed since 2020. Girls comprise approximately 73% of the sixth form, with around 100 boys. This creates a different atmosphere from the single-sex years 7-11. Some families value the early single-sex experience for confidence-building; others prefer coeducational progression from Year 7. Both perspectives are reasonable.

South Wilts Grammar School represents a rare combination: genuine academic excellence paired with a warm, inclusive culture. The January 2025 Ofsted inspection evidence suggests improvement across all areas since the previous inspection, and the school's trajectory is clearly positive. GCSE results place it in the top 4% of schools in England. The breadth of extracurricular provision is exceptional for a state school; clubs named above represent a curated selection, the full list contains over 100 options running throughout the week.

The school is best suited to families within travelling distance who have an able child confident in academic environments. Entry requires genuine selectivity on ability and early preparation. For families who successfully navigate admissions, the education is exceptional and the experience transformative. The recent headteacher appointment is strong, the facilities are excellent, and the culture is genuinely welcoming.

The principal challenge is securing a place; competition is fierce. Families should verify current admissions information with the school directly and register early. For those who gain entry, this is a school that delivers on its mission: to preserve high academic standards while developing kind, aspirational, involved young people.