Newstead Wood School
Orpington, Kent · BR6 9SA
Newstead Wood School is a highly selective girls' grammar school in Orpington, Kent, forming part of the United Learning trust, with a co-educational Sixth Form. Known for exceptional academic results and a strong culture of intellectual ambition, the school draws top-performing girls from across the London Borough of Bromley and neighbouring areas. Its ethos centres on 'creating opportunities for success' beyond the classroom, blending rigorous scholarship with a broad co-curricular programme. The school has a well-established reputation as one of the highest-performing state secondary schools in the South East.
- →Consistently outstanding GCSE and A-level results placing it among the top grammar schools nationally
- →Free selective education with the academic environment of an independent school
- →Strong Sixth Form with co-educational intake and well-regarded Russell Group progression
- →Broad curriculum including rare language options such as Japanese, Chinese, and Latin
- →Part of United Learning trust, bringing additional professional development and resources
Who thrives here
Academically driven girls who enjoy intellectual challenge and are self-motivated learners will thrive here; the school rewards curiosity, independence, and resilience. Students who want strong extracurricular provision alongside high academic expectations will find the environment stimulating.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
Avebury Road
Orpington, Kent
BR6 9SA
Nearest stations
Notable alumni
Anita Dobson
Actress, known for EastEnders
Gemma Chan
Actress and model, known for Crazy Rich Asians and Marvel films
Recent investment
Frequently asked questions
How much does Newstead Wood School cost?
Newstead Wood 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 Newstead Wood School?
Newstead Wood 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 Newstead Wood School's exam results?
At Newstead Wood School, 37.8% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 85.5% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.
Is Newstead Wood School a boarding school?
Newstead Wood School is a day school in Orpington and does not offer boarding.
What is Newstead Wood School's latest inspection rating?
Ofsted rated Newstead Wood School “Outstanding” (2022).
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Exceptional academic outcomes and strong university destinations for a state school
✓High-calibre peer group that motivates and inspires pupils
✓Broad language and humanities curriculum that genuinely stretches able pupils
✓Supportive and knowledgeable subject teachers with high subject expertise
✓Active Parents' Association and good home-school communication
Common concerns
!High academic pressure can feel relentless for some pupils, particularly in Years 10-11
!Limited SEND and pastoral resource relative to the demands placed on high-ability girls
!Competition for places is intense and the 11+ process can be stressful for families
!Some parents note that extracurricular provision, while available, can feel secondary to academic priorities