Selection by ability:a comparison of admissions to grammar schools in England and in Germany

This working paper focuses on admissions to grammar schools in Germany and the UK (England). Although there are academically selective schools in England (grammar schools) and Germany (Gymnasien) there is a paucity of comparative research addressing the legislative provision, policy and approaches used to select pupils. This working paper seeks to shine a light on the institutional rules that apply to the selection and admission of children to grammar schools and Gymnasien and the characteristics of the main beneficiaries of selective schooling. We find clear differences between the two countries, with legislation being the responsibility of the Land in Germany and the national government in the case of England. A key distinguishing feature is that admission to a Gymnasium in Germany is based on the recommendation of the child’s primary school; this may or may not be binding on parents. In England, admission to grammar school is based on the 11-plus test, which varies between schools / academy trusts / local authority areas. Notwithstanding the differences in policy and approaches used to selection, the evidence indicates that those who attend selective schools in both countries tend to be from more rather than less advantaged families.