Secondary Education

Moving to secondary school is an exciting milestone for every child. By the time pupils leave St Vincent's Catholic Primary School, they are well prepared for the next stage of their learning journey. We are committed to supporting and guiding families throughout the process of choosing the right secondary school. Trafford is a selective local authority, offering a wide range of secondary school options. Families may apply to grammar schools, which require pupils to sit an entrance examination, as well as non-selective secondary schools that do not have entrance tests. We strongly encourage parents and carers to research and visit a variety of schools before making their decision. Attending open events, exploring school websites and speaking to staff can help families gain a better understanding of each school's ethos, curriculum and opportunities. Most importantly, consider where your child will feel happy, supported and able to flourish both academically and personally. At St Vincent's, we support pupils throughout the transition process. We introduce children to a range of question types commonly found in entrance assessments and provide opportunities to practise under timed conditions, helping them to develop confidence and effective exam techniques. For families who wish to access additional preparation, after-school tuition is also available on a paid basis.

Which Secondary Schools Can I Apply To?

Historically, many of our pupils have transferred to secondary schools within Trafford, although families may also wish to consider schools in neighbouring local authorities. The right choice will depend on your child's individual needs, interests and circumstances. As admission arrangements can change from year to year and often depend on where you live, we recommend checking each school's website for the latest information on admissions criteria, open events and application procedures. Some independent schools also offer scholarships and bursaries, which families may wish to explore.

Catholic Trafford Secondary Schools

• Blessed Thomas Holford, Altrincham
• Loreto Grammar, Altrincham
• St Ambrose College, Hale Barns
• St Anthony’s Catholic School, Flixton

Other Trafford Secondary Schools

• Altrincham College
• Altrincham Grammar School for Boys
• Altrincham Grammar School for Girls
• Manor Academy
• North Cestrian School
• Sale Grammar School
• Stretford Grammar School
• Urmston Grammar School
• Wellington School

Schools outside of Trafford

• Knutsford Academy
• Lymm High

Independent secondary schools

• Alderley Edge School for Girls
• Cheadle Hulme School
• Chetham's School of Music
• Cransley School
• Manchester Grammar School
• Manchester High School for Girls
• St Bedes College
• Withington Girls School

Trafford Guidance

Please visit the link below for information regarding a secondary school place. Please check the dates below as dates may be subject to change. 

https://www.trafford.gov.uk/schools-and-learning/starting-school-and-admissions/starting-secondary-school

The Application Process

14^th September - online application goes live.

31^st October - deadline for secondary applications via the common application form (CAF).

When completing the CAF, you should always put the schools in your real order of preference.

1^st March - national offer day.

If you would like to talk to us about secondary school, please do not hesitate to contact school to discuss.