Choosing the right school for your child is a pivotal decision, and for parents in Buckinghamshire, the selection of grammar schools offers a pathway to exceptional education. With some of the highest-performing selective schools in the country, Buckinghamshire offers excellent options for families looking for a rigorous academic environment, enriching extracurriculars, and strong university progression.
Here’s a detailed look at the top grammar schools in Buckinghamshire and what you need to know about the admissions process.
Which are the best grammar schools in Buckinghamshire?
The table below summarises key performance indicators for the grammar schools in Buckinghamshire, including GCSE and A-Level results, Ofsted ratings, and Progress 8.
A number of Buckinghamshire schools are also recognised nationally as the highest-performing grammar schools in the UK.
| School | Entry | GCSE 9-7 | A Level A*-B | Ofsted rating | Progress 8 | Attainment 8 (Bucks avg. 54.5 ) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dr Challoner's Grammar School | Boys | 77.8% | 84.0% | Outstanding | Well above average | 77.5 |
| Dr Challoner's High School | Girls | 77.0% | 81.6% | Outstanding | Well above average | 78.5 |
| Beaconsfield High School | Girls | 76.0% | 83.0% | Outstanding | Well above average | 76.9 |
| Sir William Borlase Grammar School | Mixed | 76.4% | 80.3% | Outstanding | Well above average | 76.4 |
| Aylesbury High School | Girls | 76.5% | 75.4% | Outstanding | Well above average | 77.6 |
| Aylesbury Grammar School | Boys | 68.4% | 77.3% | Outstanding | Well above average | 75 |
| Royal Grammar School | Boys | 74.4% | 77.0% | Good | Well above average | 76 |
| Wycombe High School | Girls | 68.0% | 76.0% | Outstanding | Well above average | 74.6 |
| Sir Henry Floyd Grammar School | Mixed | 68.0% | 74.0% | Outstanding | Well above average | 73.3 |
| John Hampden Grammar School | Boys | 64.1% | 73.4% | Outstanding | Well above average | 72.9 |
| Burnham Grammar School | Mixed | 56.0% | 63.0% | Good | Well above average | 70 |
Key Highlights
1. Dr Challoner’s Grammar School (Amersham)
Dr. Challoner’s Grammar School has consistently been one of the highest performing grammar schools in Buckinghamshire for the last few years. Based in Amersham, it is a selective grammar school (granted academy status in 2011) that accepts boys from Years 7 to 13. Academically, DCGS recently achieved the highest results for both GCSEs and A Levels of every school in Buckinghamshire, and its Ofsted rating was ‘outstanding’. Year-on-year, over 95% of leavers move on to Higher Education, with the vast majority of boys gaining places at top UK universities; around 15-20 students study at Oxford or Cambridge.
2. Dr Challoner’s High School (Little Chalfont)
The counterpart girls’ grammar has a similar reputation for outstanding performance and rich extracurricular offerings, making it a popular choice among families.
3. Beaconsfield High School (Beaconsfield)
Known for its academic success and broad range of opportunities beyond the classroom, Beaconsfield High regularly features among the county’s top grammar schools.
4. Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School (Marlow)
A mixed grammar with strong results and an “Outstanding” rating, Borlase’s is another highly regarded choice for families seeking a balanced academic and pastoral environment.
5. Aylesbury Grammar & Aylesbury High Schools
Both schools in Aylesbury — one boys’ and one girls’ — deliver excellent results and maintain distinguished reputations, especially for academic performance and university progression.
Understanding Grammar School Admissions in Buckinghamshire
Buckinghamshire operates one of the few fully selective education systems in England. To gain entry to any grammar school, students must sit the Buckinghamshire Secondary Transfer Test (formerly known as the 1+) in Year 6.
Your child is suitable for any Buckinghamshire grammar school if they score 121 or more in the Secondary Transfer Test; it is expected that about 37% of children will achieve that level.
Buckinghamshire grammar schools do not rank applicants by their Secondary Transfer Test results so higher results are not an advantage for entry. Beyond requiring a qualification score of 121 or above, each grammar school sets its own criteria for admissions so it’s important to check each individual grammar school’s admissions policy.
Children sit two test papers, each about 60 minutes long, with a break between. The test evaluates your child’s ability to solve verbal, mathematical, and non-verbal problems, allowing them to demonstrate their skills using words, numbers, and visual aids like pictures or diagrams.
The Secondary Transfer Test is administered in September during Year 6. If your child attends a state funded Buckinghamshire primary school or partner school, they will sit the test at school, during the school day. Otherwise, your child will be invited to sit the test at a Buckinghamshire grammar school or other central venue.
The results of the Secondary Transfer Test are released to parents and guardians in mid-October of Year 6. Following the release of results, you should complete the secondary school application form, listing your preferred schools, and submit it to the local authority by the end of October. Make sure to consider each school’s admissions policy and catchment area when making your final selections.
How can I support my child with preparing for the Secondary Transfer Test?
Preparation for the Secondary Transfer test is crucial and should start well in advance. Familiarise your child with the test format and practise different types of questions using the Familiarisation booklet; a hardcopy of this booklet will be provided to all students attending a state funded Buckinghamshire primary school or Partner School. Regular practice helps improve speed and accuracy. Enrolling in a prep course or hiring a tutor can provide structured guidance and address specific areas of weakness. There is also a shorter practice test, usually taken two days before the main test, to help children learn what to expect.
Read more tips in our Grammar School Entrance Exams article.
Encourage a balanced study routine, combining test practice with other activities to prevent burnout. Building strong foundational knowledge in English and Maths through regular schoolwork is essential, as these skills are fundamental to the test. Reading widely, and discussing what they have read with your child, can support English comprehension and creativity. Additionally, developing mathematical skills through puzzles and logic games can be beneficial.
Setting regular, attainable goals and celebrating your child’s progress, regardless of its size, can help maintain their motivation. Encourage a growth mindset by celebrating effort in addition to achievement. When your child makes mistakes or has difficulty understanding a topic, help them realise that they can improve through practice. Consistent praise will enhance their resilience when facing new and challenging subjects. Ensure your child gets adequate rest before the test day to perform optimally.
With thorough preparation and a supportive approach, your child can successfully navigate the Secondary Transfer Test and gain entry into a Buckinghamshire grammar school.
What are the advantages of attending a grammar school?
Attending a British grammar school offers numerous academic advantages, significantly shaping a student's educational journey. Firstly, grammar schools are renowned for their rigorous academic standards and selective admissions process, ensuring a high-achieving peer group. This creates an environment where academic excellence is the norm, fostering a culture of ambition and intellectual curiosity.
The curriculum in grammar schools is often more challenging, with a strong emphasis on traditional academic subjects such as mathematics, sciences, and humanities. This rigorous approach prepares students exceptionally well for higher education, particularly for competitive university admissions. Additionally, grammar schools frequently have highly qualified and specialised teachers, providing students with expert guidance and support.
Moreover, grammar schools typically offer a wealth of extracurricular academic activities, including clubs, competitions, and societies, which enhance students' learning experiences and foster a love for subjects beyond the classroom. Opportunities for advanced study and research projects further enrich the academic landscape.
Another significant advantage is the strong focus on discipline and structure within grammar schools. This environment encourages students to develop effective study habits, time management skills, and a strong work ethic. The emphasis on academic achievement is often matched with robust support systems, including mentoring and counselling, ensuring students can reach their full potential.
Overall, the academic benefits of attending a British grammar school are profound, providing a solid foundation for future academic and professional success.
How do I find the best school for my child?
While league tables offer valuable insights into a school's academic performance, they should not be the sole factor in choosing a grammar school in Buckinghamshire for your child. It is essential to consider the broader educational experience, including extracurricular activities, pastoral care, and the school's ability to nurture well-rounded individuals. Visiting schools, speaking with staff and current students, and reflecting on your child's unique needs and interests are crucial steps. By taking a holistic approach, you can ensure your child not only excels academically but also enjoys a supportive and enriching school environment.
Tutors for 11+ Grammar School Entrance
Each year Keystone supports many students preparing for 11+ grammar school entrance for top grammar schools in Buckinghamshire. Read more about our 11+ grammar school entrance tutors.
For more details, please contact one of our client managers or complete our request a tutor form.