Buckinghamshire 11 Plus Process: What Parents Need to Know

The Buckinghamshire grammar school system is one of the most prominent in England, and understanding how the 11 Plus works in this area is essential for parents considering selective education for their child. From application timelines to test content and admissions criteria, this guide outlines everything you need to know.

What is the Buckinghamshire Grammar School System?

Buckinghamshire operates a fully selective education system, meaning grammar school entry is determined solely by academic ability as demonstrated in the 11 Plus exam. The county is home to 13 grammar schools, all part of the Buckinghamshire Grammar Schools (TBGS) consortium.

Unlike some other regions, Buckinghamshire uses automatic registration for children attending state primary schools in the county, which simplifies the process for local families.

Which Grammar Schools are in Buckinghamshire?

• Aylesbury Grammar School
• Beaconsfield High School
• Dr Challoner’s Grammar School
• Dr Challoner’s High School
• John Hampden Grammar School
• Sir Henry Floyd Grammar School
• Chesham Grammar School
• Royal Latin School
• Wycombe High School
• Burnham Grammar School
• The Royal Grammar School, High Wycombe
• Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School
• Aylesbury High School

How Does the 11 Plus Work in Buckinghamshire?

What is the Secondary Transfer Test (STT)?

The Buckinghamshire 11 Plus exam is known locally as the Secondary Transfer Test (STT). It is administered by GL Assessment and taken in September of Year 6. The test consists of two papers:

1. Verbal Skills (including comprehension, vocabulary, grammar)
2. Non-verbal and Mathematical Skills (including spatial reasoning and problem-solving)

Each paper lasts approximately 60 minutes and is multiple-choice in format.

What Score is Needed to Pass the Buckinghamshire 11 Plus?

Children must achieve a standardised score of 121 or above to be considered for a grammar school place. The score is adjusted for age to ensure fairness.

When Do You Apply for the Buckinghamshire 11 Plus?

Key Dates for the Buckinghamshire 11 Plus

• May to June (Year 5): Registration opens for out-of-county children
• September (Year 6): STT test dates
• October: Results released
• October 31: CAF (Common Application Form) deadline
• March 1: School allocation offers sent to parents

Do You Need to Register for the 11 Plus in Buckinghamshire?

If your child attends a Buckinghamshire LA primary school, registration is automatic. However, out-of-county applicants must register manually through the Buckinghamshire Council website.

Can My Child Take the Test If We Live Outside Buckinghamshire?

Yes. Buckinghamshire grammar schools accept applications from families living outside the county, but competition for out-of-county places can be intense. Admission is subject to oversubscription criteria, and priority is often given to local children.

What Are the Oversubscription Criteria for Buckinghamshire Grammar Schools?

When there are more qualified candidates than places available, schools apply oversubscription rules. These usually include:

• Children in care or previously in care
• Siblings already attending the school
• Catchment area proximity
• Performance in the STT (tie-breakers may apply)

Each grammar school may have slightly different criteria, so it’s best to consult individual school admissions policies.

How Can You Help Your Child Prepare for the Buckinghamshire 11 Plus?

Recommended Preparation Strategies

• Practice Papers: Use GL-style papers to become familiar with the format
• Time Management: Encourage timed practice to simulate exam conditions
• Tutoring: Consider professional tutoring or group prep classes
• Online Resources: Use educational websites for vocabulary and reasoning skills
• Mock Exams: Many providers offer full-length mock exams locally

Preparation should ideally begin in Year 5, or earlier if the child needs extra support with verbal or mathematical skills.

Are Coaching and Tutoring Allowed?

Yes, but grammar schools are officially “tutor-proofing” their tests to ensure fairness. Still, many parents opt for some form of preparation to boost confidence and familiarity.

Are There Any Practice or Familiarisation Sessions?

Yes, GL Assessment provides familiarisation materials that are distributed by Buckinghamshire schools. These include:

• Sample questions
• Answer sheets
• Instructions on test format

Some schools may also run pre-test sessions to help children understand what to expect.

What Happens After the Test?

When Will 11 Plus Results be Released in Buckinghamshire?

Results are usually sent out in mid-October, well before the CAF deadline. This gives parents enough time to make informed decisions when ranking schools on the application form.

What If My Child Doesn’t Pass?

Failing to achieve 121 does not end the road. Parents can consider:

• Selection Review: A quick review process within the county
• Appeal: If you believe exceptional circumstances affected your child’s performance
• Alternative Schools: High-performing comprehensives or independent schools

How Competitive Are Buckinghamshire Grammar Schools?

Competition is high, especially for top-performing schools like Dr Challoner’s and The Royal Grammar School. While the pass mark is fixed at 121, actual entry depends on demand and ranking.

What’s the Pass Rate in Buckinghamshire?

Around 30% of children sitting the STT achieve a qualifying score, though this can vary slightly from year to year.

Final Thoughts

The Buckinghamshire 11 Plus process is structured, selective, and competitive. Whether you’re a local parent or applying from outside the county, early preparation, familiarity with the Secondary Transfer Test, and understanding of admission rules are crucial. With the right approach, your child can face the 11 Plus with confidence and clarity.

Frequently Asked Questions