Essex
Grammar Schools
Essex has a consortium of 10 grammar schools (CSSE) that share a common entrance test. The CSSE test consists of English and Maths papers. A standardised score of 303 is typically needed to qualify.
10
SchoolsCSSE (Essex Consortium)
Exam BoardLate September (estimated)
Test DateLate June (estimated)
DeadlineColchester • CO3 3HD
One of the oldest schools in England, founded in 1206, with outstanding academic results.
90.2%
GCSE 9-792.2%
A-Level A*-BColchester • CO3 3US
An outstanding girls' grammar school with exceptional results across all subjects.
Chelmsford • CM2 6LR
A highly selective girls' grammar school. Note: Uses own test, not CSSE.
Chelmsford • CM1 1LX
Outstanding (February 2025). Ranked 9th nationally, East Anglia State Secondary School of the Year 2025 (Sunday Times). Founded 1551. Excellent STEM provision.
89.7%
GCSE 9-789.1%
A-Level A*-BSouthend-on-Sea • SS1 2TQ
Outstanding in all categories (June 2024). 99% achieved grade 5+ at GCSE. Strong music tradition.
Southend-on-Sea • SS0 0RG
An outstanding girls' grammar school with excellent pastoral care.
Westcliff-on-Sea • SS0 0BP
A successful boys' grammar school with strong academic traditions.
Westcliff-on-Sea • SS0 9TD
A girls' grammar school with strong academic results.
Westcliff-on-Sea • SS0 0AL
A Catholic girls' grammar school.
Southend-on-Sea • SS2 4AA
A Catholic boys' grammar school.
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