Some comprehensive schools ‘more socially selective than grammars’

Poorer pupils are less likely to get into top-performing comprehensive schools than their peers even if there is one in their local area, the study found. Photograph: Ben Birchall/PA

Some comprehensive schools are more “socially selective” than grammar schools, according to new research which has called on the government to review the admissions code in England to improve access for poorer pupils.

While grammars are inherently selective, as admission is based on passing an 11-plus examination, comprehensive secondary schools admit local children, regardless of academic ability or social background, based on a school’s admissions policy.