GrammarboysOfsted · Good
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Ilford County High School

Ilford, Essex · IG6 2JB

AAB+ A-level

35.4%

9–7 GCSE

67.9%

Pupils

1,138

Inspection

Good

Read report
School website

Ilford County High School is a selective boys' grammar school in Essex serving the Ilford area with around 1,138 pupils across years 7–13. It maintains a traditional grammar school ethos while embracing modern pastoral initiatives, as evidenced by its Rainbow Flag Award and UNICEF Rights Respecting School status. The school balances academic rigour with breadth, offering strong enrichment in arts, sport, and personal development.

  • Selective academic entry ensures a peer group of bright, motivated boys
  • Strong pastoral systems with house structure and wellbeing focus
  • Broad co-curricular offer including arts (Artsmark), Duke of Edinburgh, and competitive sport

Who thrives here

Academically able boys who thrive in a traditional grammar setting and benefit from a structured, supportive pastoral environment. Pupils interested in arts, sport, or leadership will find multiple pathways.

Strengths at a glance

Exam results50th pctSports70th pctCo-curricular50th pctValue vs peers100th pctPastoral & wellbeing50th pct

Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.

At a glance

School typeGrammar · Day
Number of pupils1,138
Age range11–11
GenderBoys
FeesFree (state grammar)
Settingsuburban
LocationWell served by London Underground and National Rail; central Ilford location makes it accessible from across East London and beyond.

Contact & visit

Fremantle Road, Barkingside

Ilford, Essex

IG6 2JB

www.ichs.org.uk
02085516496
Mrs Rebecca Drysdale, Headteacher

Nearest stations

Ilford (Circle, District, Hammersmith & City lines)8 min
Ilford (Great Eastern Main Line)8 min

Frequently asked questions

How much does Ilford County High School cost?

Ilford County High School is a state grammar school, so there are no tuition fees — places are free and allocated by the 11-plus exam and the school’s admissions criteria.

How do you get into Ilford County High School?

Ilford County High School admits pupils at 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by 11+ Selective Examination. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.

What are Ilford County High School's exam results?

At Ilford County High School, 35.4% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 67.9% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.

Is Ilford County High School a boarding school?

Ilford County High School is a day school in Ilford and does not offer boarding.

What is Ilford County High School's latest inspection rating?

Ofsted rated Ilford County High School “Good” (2021).

What parents say

Frequently praised

Strong pastoral care and house system creating a sense of community and belonging

Inclusive, progressive ethos evident in Rainbow Flag and Rights Respecting awards

Broad enrichment offer balancing academics with arts, sport, and personal development

Well-organised sixth form with clear leadership pathway

Common concerns

!Not yet inspected by Ofsted, making independent verification of standards difficult for prospective parents