Year 7 places available at Bradford Grammar School – excellence in academics, sport, music & pastoral care
For families still considering entry to secondary school, Bradford Grammar School (BGS) is still accepting applications and offers a comprehensive and enriching educational experience that extends beyond academics. Pupils are welcomed into a vibrant and dynamic community that nurtures personal growth and character development, while developing the skills and resilience needed to thrive throughout their school years and beyond.
With a legacy dating back to 1548 and a reputation for high standards and an inclusive, caring atmosphere, BGS draws students from a wide catchment area, supported by strong transport links, and offers a unique environment where every student can flourish. The school’s exceptional facilities – including state-of-the-art science labs, world-class sports amenities, an extensive modern library and beautiful green spaces – create the ideal setting for a holistic education and personal growth.
A transformative start
BGS are committed to providing a nurturing environment where pupils embarking on their secondary school journey are encouraged to thrive. The Year 7 residential trip is a thrilling start to the BGS experience, held at Caythorpe Court, in Lincolnshire, pupils camp together and take part in high ropes, raft-building and team challenges. Organised just a few days into the start of the first term, the trip is designed to ease the boys and girls transition into senior school and help them build strong connections with their peers.
Emma Tomlinson, Head of Year 7, says: “Our aim is to equip them with the tools and confidence they need to make the most of their time here and lay a solid foundation for the future.”
Academics: A springboard for success
At BGS, the academic experience in Year 7 is broad and engaging, covering a range of subjects, from English and maths to science, humanities, languages, including Latin, creative arts and sport. This diverse approach ensures that each student is encouraged to explore their interests and thrive across multiple disciplines.
One key feature of the Year 7 curriculum is the absence of sets, which promotes a collaborative and supportive learning environment.
We believe Year 7 should be a time for students to discover their strengths and develop their skills, free from the pressure of being placed in a set. This approach allows all pupils to build confidence and provides them the freedom to explore their academic potential in an inclusive, broadminded setting.
Sports, music and co-curricular life: Cultivating well-rounded individuals
Physical activity and team sports are integral parts of life at BGS. With world-class facilities, including astro-turf hockey pitches, a 25-meter swimming pool, boat house and all-weather tennis and netball courts, pupils thrive across a wide range of sports, from cricket and rugby to netball and rowing. BGS’s sporting philosophy embraces both mass participation and elite pathways, and pupils benefit from training with specialist coaches, many of whom bring national-level expertise.
Music and drama provide vibrant outlets for creativity and self-expression at the school, allowing students to perform, create, and collaborate. Music is at the heart of school life, with expert tuition and a variety of ensembles, musicians of all levels take part in recitals, concerts, and workshops. All supported by exceptional facilities, including a music auditorium, recording studio, and specialist classrooms. Meanwhile, drama students explore acting, writing and technical roles, staging stand-out productions in the purpose-built Hockney Theatre, which boasts professional sound and lighting equipment.
Outside of sports and music, BGS offers over 60 clubs and societies, covering a wide range of interests, from debating and digital arts to cadets, chess, crafts, volunteering, the Duke of Edinburgh Award and science clubs. With so many activities available, pupils can explore their passions, broaden their horizons and make friends beyond their immediate peer group.
A strong support system
BGS’s commitment to student welfare drives its strong pastoral care system, beginning in Year 7. Alongside form tutors and pastoral leaders, the school has a head of pastoral care, on-site nurses and partnerships with specialist well-being providers. Pastoral prefects – Year 13 students – also play a key role in supporting younger students.
Emma explains: “The support from our pastoral prefects is invaluable. They help our Year 7s feel settled, supported and confident in their new school environment. It’s all about creating a close-knit community from the outset.
“The school’s pastoral leaders, who are also teaching staff, are actively involved in pupils’ daily lives, making it easy to identify challenges and ensuring every Year 7 feels welcomed and supported both academically and personally.”
Shaping futures and realising potential
As pupils progress from Year 7 through to Sixth Form, they benefit from the continuity of support, opportunity and community that BGS provides. Each year builds on the last, with new challenges, friendships and achievements that shape confident, resilient and capable individuals ready for higher education and life beyond.
With limited Year 7 places remaining, the school encourages families to get in touch as soon as possible. Whether you’re new to the area or reconsidering your options, their admissions team is happy to help with any enquiries.
Start your child’s journey at Bradford Grammar School and enquire today by Email: [email protected] or Phone: 01274 553702.
Find out more online here.