White British pupils become minority in England grammar schools

New data from the annual school spring census reveals that white British students have become a minority in England’s grammar schools. Over the last decade, the proportion of white British pupils has fallen from 66 per cent in 2016 to 44 per cent in 2026.

School leaders have offered various explanations for this demographic shift. Dr. Chris Evans, head of Reading School, noted that applications from white British families have fallen significantly, suggesting some parents fear their children may be ‘hot-housed’—pushed toward advanced teaching before they are naturally ready.

Other educators attributed the change to rising educational aspirations among second-generation immigrant families. Some schools reported that certain ethnic groups are more willing to relocate or endure long commutes to attend specific institutions. For example, Pate's Grammar School in Gloucestershire saw white British attendance drop from 75 per cent to 34 per cent over ten years, while Indian pupil attendance rose from 8 per cent to 30 per cent, and Chinese student presence increased from 0.3 per cent to 5 per cent.