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Top 5 Grammar Schools in Manchester for Students and Parents to Consider
A friend asked for help in finding the right grammar school in Manchester for her niece, and together we began exploring the city’s most reputable options. Walking through the gates of these schools, it was clear that each one carried its own character, values, and academic strengths.
Some stood out for their academic track record, while others impressed us with extracurricular opportunities, supportive environments, and facilities designed to nurture both learning and personal growth.
For families weighing their options, knowing where to begin makes the journey much easier. Here are the best grammar schools in Manchester that students and parents need to consider.
1. Malvern House Manchester

Address: Murray House, 85 Piccadilly
Phone: +441612358480
Business Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8:30 AM to 5 PM
Prep Reviews Score | 4.6/5 |
Total Reviews | 4.6/5 |
Score Consistency | 4/5 |
Service | 5/5 |
Quality | 5/5 |
Range | 5/5 |
Facilities | 4/5 |
Pricing (A higher score means a better value) | 4/5 |
Malvern House Manchester gave us the impression of a school that values both academics and community. Located in the city centre, it is easily accessible by bus and train, which is practical if your family lives outside the immediate area.
During our visit, staff were approachable and took time to explain the structure of their English programmes, from General English to IELTS preparation and even Business English.
They also highlighted how classes are designed to match student levels, with small groups that keep lessons interactive. Several students we spoke with described the teachers as patient and thorough, often going beyond textbooks to help students build confidence in speaking.
The international mix of students also seemed to be a big draw, with many saying that learning went hand in hand with cultural exchange. Facilities included a modest library space, group study areas, and a welcoming reception that felt easy to navigate.
The only drawback mentioned was the comfort of the restrooms, which could benefit from an upgrade to match the overall positive environment of the school.
Improved and learned so much
“I’m loving my time at this language school! It’s more than just learning English—it’s a true integration center. I’ve improved my skills and learned so much about the culture. Great experience!”
Lou Sp, Google Review
Feels more like a home where you can learn so much
“The academy isn’t just a place where you go, study, and leave; it feels more like a home than just an academy. All the staff are friendly, and they also offer events in Manchester that you can attend and enjoy. Plus, they organize weekly trips—for example, you can go grab a coffee with a teacher from the academy. There are plenty of activities too! The last thing I’d say is that I highly recommend this academy. From the moment I arrived, I’ve felt like part of their family, not just a student with teachers.”
Omar Al-Qahtani, Google Review
2. NCG Manchester

Address: 9 Portland St
Phone: +441612334290
Business Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8:15 AM to 5 PM
Google Reviews Score | 4.6/5 |
Total Reviews | 4.6/5 |
Score Consistency | 4/5 |
Service | 5/5 |
Quality | 5/5 |
Range | 5/5 |
Facilities | 4.5/5 |
Pricing (A higher score means a better value) | 4/5 |
NCG Manchester came across as a lively and welcoming school during our visit. Staff were approachable, answering questions with patience and giving us a clear overview of the English courses they run, whether for university preparation, professional development, or general improvement.
The building itself is conveniently located in central Manchester, making it easy to access from different parts of the city.
What stood out most was the diversity of the student body. You could see people from many different countries interacting, which naturally creates opportunities for cultural exchange alongside language learning.
However, the size of the student population feels a bit off for us. We noticed that the number of students felt greater than their room’s capacity.
On the positive side, feedback about teaching quality was consistently strong. Students valued how lessons were adapted to different levels and praised the extracurricular options, such as sports and cultural activities.
Teachers are kind and helpful
“I had a great experience at NCG School. The teachers are very kind and helpful, especially David. The classrooms are clean and comfortable. Special thanks to the center manager, Alba, who is very friendly and positive. Her support made my time at the school better. I recommend this school to anyone who wants to learn in a good environment.”
Abdulelah Aldakhil, Google Review
Really felt a sense of belongingness to this school
“I am Fawaz from Kuwait. There is a beautiful feeling of belonging to this place, and this is a result of the teachers’ treatment and the warmth we feel as students there. The students also treat each other with friendship, love and respect. This is beautiful. I don’t want these days to end!!”
Fawaz Alfadhli, Google Review
3. BSC Manchester

Address: 7 Chatham St
Phone: +441273977702
Business Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Google Reviews Score | 4.4/5 |
Total Reviews | 4.4/5 |
Score Consistency | 4/5 |
Service | 5/5 |
Quality | 5/5 |
Range | 5/5 |
Facilities | 4/5 |
Pricing (A higher score means a better value) | 4/5 |
BSC Manchester gave us a very positive impression. The staff were welcoming, taking time to answer questions about course options, exam preparation support, and even career-focused English programmes.
Teachers were introduced as highly qualified, with years of experience helping students gain confidence in real-life communication. The location is another advantage, right in the city centre with easy access to cafes, museums, and public transport.
One point that stood out in our research, however, was feedback about the refund process. Several students mentioned that when changes to schedules or cancellations occurred, refunds sometimes took longer than expected.
While this does not affect the teaching quality, it’s something worth noting if you’re considering a course and want financial flexibility.
All in all, the learning environment felt lively and well-structured. Classrooms were equipped with modern tools, and the atmosphere encouraged interaction between students from all over the world.
Had a great learning experience
“I had a great experience here, and I also learn a lot with interactive clases and AMAZING TEACHERS. All of the BSC team is involved in provide us a great experience in an inclusive place where everyone is welcome so I made lots of friends. I will always remember this experience as a great time, forever thankfull! ❤️”
Sara Romero, Google Review
Teachers really care about their students
“BSC Manchester is a great school with very friendly teachers who really care about their students. They organized fun trips and the classes were interactive, which made learning and improving English enjoyable”
Candela Estevez Deza, Google Review
4. MC Academy

Address: Second Floor, 21-23 Oldham St
Phone: +441612367575
Business Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8:30 AM to 5 PM
Google Reviews Score | 4.3/5 |
Total Reviews | 4.3/5 |
Score Consistency | 4/5 |
Service | 4.5/5 |
Quality | 4.5/5 |
Range | 4.5/5 |
Facilities | 4/5 |
Pricing (A higher score means a better value) | 4/5 |
MC Academy presented itself as a school that takes language learning seriously while creating a sense of community. During our visit, the staff outlined their accredited courses and explained how lessons are designed to prepare students for academic exams, professional careers, or everyday communication.
The flexibility of their programmes stood out, with options for group classes or tailored one-to-one sessions depending on your goals. Teachers were described as highly experienced, and students we spoke with said they appreciated how lessons combined grammar with practical speaking opportunities.
Another strong point was the school’s emphasis on social activities. These give students the chance to practise English in real-world settings while also forming friendships with classmates from different countries.
It was clear from the feedback we gathered that many found this balance between academics and social interaction to be one of the school’s biggest strengths.
The only drawback raised was that a few staff members could improve in terms of customer service. While the majority were friendly and helpful, there were occasional reports of less supportive and rude interactions.
Teacher are very skilled and friendly
“The teachers are very skilled here and friendly too. All the classrooms have interactive whiteboards, air con and very modern feel. Up to 16 in a class but mostly lower”
Lewis Husbands, Google Review
Unforgettable learning experience
“A wonderful experience and unforgettable days. I will definitely return to study at this beautiful institute with its cooperative teaching staff. I wish you all the best ❤️❤️”
7 S, Google Review
5. EC Manchester English Language School

Address: Boulton House, 17-21 Chorlton St
Phone: +441612331000
Business Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8:30 AM to 6 PM
Google Reviews Score | 4.6/5 |
Total Reviews | 4.6/5 |
Score Consistency | 4/5 |
Service | 4.5/5 |
Quality | 4.5/5 |
Range | 4.5/5 |
Facilities | 4/5 |
Pricing (A higher score means a better value) | 4/5 |
The one area that may put some families off is the accommodation. Feedback we heard suggested that while the school provides housing options, they could be better maintained and more comfortable for long-term stays.
If you consider boarding, you may want to explore private alternatives nearby, as Manchester has plenty of student-friendly housing within reach of the school.
That being said, EC Manchester gave us a strong impression as a language-focused school that balances academics with cultural immersion. The staff were approachable when we called, and they explained their intensive courses, flexible schedules, and how programs are designed for learners from beginner to advanced levels.
Teachers were described as supportive, using interactive methods to keep students engaged.
Students we interviewed shortly mentioned that the atmosphere was diverse and welcoming, with classmates from around the world. The activities are also something to highlight as learners can explore Manchester’s music, football, and cultural landmarks while practising English outside the classroom.
Well-organised classes
“EC is a good school. I was there for 3 months and I can say that I have improved my English. All of the teachers are excellent and kind, the schedule is very organized and all the classes start on time. It all depends on you!”
Erika Beron, Google Review
Very comfortable classes
“I am from Colombia and I feel so confortable with my classes here. Alex and Shaun teachers have a good methodology of teaching, I’m learning a lot, I recommend this academy.”
Alex Pineda, Google Review