The number of applicants to the schools that form the elite of the state system has risen strongly this year in some local authorities contacted by the FT, in spite of a decline in the overall number of pupils applying. Several schools cite financial insecurity caused by the recession.

Their views, and the figures behind them, support anecdotal evidence that an increasing number of parents previously intent on their children being educated in the private sector are exploring the option of a free education at grammar schools.

The tally of candidates for autumn 2009 entry has risen by 4 per cent in the wealthy London Borough of Barnet, in spite of an overall 5 per cent decline in the number of pupils applying for state school places in the borough.