Grammar school uk意思

"Grammar school" in the UK refers to a type of secondary school that selects its students based on their performance in an entrance exam, typically taken by students at the end of their primary education (around age 11). These exams are known as the 11-plus exams.

Grammar schools are state-funded, meaning they are free to attend, but they operate on a selective basis, which sets them apart from comprehensive schools, which accept all students in their local catchment area without an entrance exam.

The purpose of the grammar school system is to provide an academically rigorous education to students who demonstrate high ability in the entrance exams. These schools are known for their strong focus on academic subjects and often have a good reputation for preparing students for higher education.

However, the selection process has been a subject of debate, with some arguing that it unfairly disadvantages students from less privileged backgrounds, as tutoring for the 11-plus exams can be expensive, and the system may reinforce social inequalities. Others argue that grammar schools provide an important opportunity for bright students from all backgrounds to access a high-quality education.

It's worth noting that the availability and prevalence of grammar schools varies across the UK. In some parts of the country, such as London and the South East, there are still a significant number of grammar schools, while in other areas, they were largely abolished in the 1960s and 1970s as part of the comprehensive education reforms.

In recent years, there have been discussions about expanding the grammar school system in the UK, but these proposals have faced opposition from those who argue that the resources would be better spent on improving comprehensive schools rather than creating a more selective system.