St. Olave's Grammar School
St. Olave's Grammar School is a super-selective boys' grammar school founded in 1571, making it one of England's oldest grammar schools. With over 450 years of history, it maintains exceptional academic standards and is consistently the highest-performing state school in the country.
Quick Facts
Established:1571
Places (PAN):124
Ofsted Rating:Outstanding
Last Inspection:November 2023
Contact Information
Address:Goddington Lane, Orpington, Kent, BR6 9SH
Phone:01689 820101
Headteacher:Mr Andrew Rees
Visit School Website →Admission Details
Places Available (PAN):124
Catchment Area:No catchment area - London and Kent intake
Oversubscription Criteria:Two-stage test: Stage 1 (SET) covers English, Maths, VR, and NVR. Stage 2 written English and Maths. Top 450 from Stage 1 to Stage 2. Prioritises LAC/PLAC and up to 10 Pupil Premium places, then rank order.
Application Process:Two-stage Selective Eligibility Test (SET) system
Competition Level:Extreme - typically 3,000+ applicants for 124 places (24:1 ratio)
Preparation Advice:Requires mastery across all subjects plus exceptional mathematical ability
Why Choose St. Olave's Grammar School?
- Founded in 1571, making it one of England's oldest grammar schools
- Consistently ranked #1 state school in England for academic performance
- Two-stage entrance: SET test followed by school-specific papers
- Top 450 from Stage 1 (of 3,000+ applicants) invited to Stage 2
- Exceptional Oxbridge success rate (30-40% of Year 13 annually)
- Outstanding results: 99%+ A*-A at A-level, 98%+ Grade 9-7 at GCSE
- No catchment area - admits from across London, Kent, Surrey, Essex
- Up to 10 dedicated Pupil Premium places available
- Renowned for mathematics, sciences, and academic competitions
- Strong tradition in International Olympiads and national competitions
School Facilities
Advanced science laboratories with university-standard equipment
Mathematics and computing centre with specialist software
Sports complex with gymnasium, fitness facilities, and courts
Music department with practice rooms and performance spaces
Design technology and engineering workshops
Sixth form centre with individual study areas and seminar rooms
Library with extensive academic and research resources
Playing fields and outdoor sports facilities including tennis courts
Historic main building with modern educational extensions
Getting There
Public Transport
Bus 51Bus 61Bus 208Bus 353Bus 358Bus R2Bus R7Bus R8
Railway
Orpington (1.5 miles) or St Mary Cray (1.2 miles)
Car Parking
On-site parking available for visitors
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