In the UK, there are currently 163 grammar schools - schools which have been in long decline in the UK in recent years. Most of them can be found in South-East England, and are well-known for the outstanding academic results each cohort brings. 

But - is this system facing extinction? 

Controversy building up in recent years has brought a new and profound discussion to light - should grammar schools be abolished, or should they be kept?

Let’s start with some arguments in support of grammar schools. Studies have shown that on average, children in grammar schools have performed better than their peers in comprehensive schools. Many argue that grammar schools - despite being funded less than comprehensive ones - produce better results as the environment created is academically stimulating. 

Kulwant Kaur said, “When you put a bunch of children who all want to do well together in one place, you’ll find that they all work with one another to be the best they possibly can be. I understand that this comes with pressure, but that’s one of the things schools everywhere need to do better in helping the kids in.”

Grammar schools not only help unlock potential, but can also be viewed as a mobility tool for many in society. The majority of children who go to grammar schools come from middle class backgrounds, and, most of the time, go on to pursue further education. 

However, there are many reasons why opposition to grammar schools has been growing. In order to get into them, children must pass an 11+ exam. Although all students sit the same exam, many regard it as flawed as some children from more well-off backgrounds can afford tutors and extra support. Therefore, this may disadvantage their peers who have not had the same access to these resources. 

The struggle for many doesn’t end there. Once students reach the school, some find that they are not able to function in the challenging environment. Kochiga Raveendran, a student from Townley Grammar School, stated that, “Grammar schools, though not explicitly, promote toxic competition which can then lower the self esteem of the students.”

Whether grammar schools are going extinct or not, many see different reasons for their existence. For some, grammar schools are an opportunity for progression, but for others, they uphold unrealistic and harsh environments.