St Anselm's College
Prenton, Merseyside · CH43 1UQ
St Anselm's College is a Catholic boys' grammar school in Prenton, Merseyside, serving a broad catchment across the North West. It maintains a traditional grammar education with strong academic standards and a distinctive Catholic ethos rooted in Benedictine values. The school educates nearly 1,000 pupils from age 11 through sixth form, balancing rigorous scholarship with pastoral care and community service.
- →Strong academic reputation as a selective grammar school with solid A-level and GCSE outcomes
- →Catholic education within a disciplined, structured environment emphasising character formation
- →Comprehensive co-curricular provision including sport, music, drama, and service opportunities
Who thrives here
Pupils who respond well to traditional pastoral structures, value religious community, and are academically capable. Boys seeking a Catholic education with clear expectations and a focus on both intellectual and moral development thrive here.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
Manor Hill
Prenton, Merseyside
CH43 1UQ
Nearest stations
Notable alumni
John Moores
Founder of Littlewoods and philanthropist
Lord Justice Tomlinson
British judge and legal authority
Recent investment
Frequently asked questions
How much does St Anselm's College cost?
St Anselm's College 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 St Anselm's College?
St Anselm's College 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 St Anselm's College's exam results?
At St Anselm's College, 21.8% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 29.2% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.
Is St Anselm's College a boarding school?
St Anselm's College is a day school in Prenton and does not offer boarding.
What is St Anselm's College's latest inspection rating?
ISI rated St Anselm's College “Good” (2018).
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Strong academic results and rigorous teaching; teachers genuinely invested in pupil progress
✓Supportive pastoral system with house staff who know and care for each boy
✓Excellent co-curricular opportunities (CCF, music, sport, service) that build confidence and character
✓Clear discipline and expectations; orderly, purposeful school environment
✓Catholic values and chaplaincy provide moral framework and sense of community
Common concerns
!Limited flexibility within curriculum; selective intake can feel pressurised for pupils not naturally academic
!SEND provision sparse; parents of pupils with additional needs report feeling unsupported
!Some parents feel co-curricular activities (especially CCF) are heavily promoted, with service options less visible
!Fees rising significantly; bursary availability unclear and potentially limited
!Day-only model; limited pastoral scope compared to boarding schools for certain activities