Choosing the right grammar school for your child is one of the biggest decisions you will make as a parent. Buckinghamshire is unique — it still operates a fully selective system, meaning every child takes the Secondary Transfer Test (commonly known as the 11+) to determine whether they qualify for a grammar school place.
With 13 grammar schools spread across the county — from Aylesbury to Marlow, Chesham to Buckingham — the choice can feel overwhelming. Each school has its own character, strengths, and admissions criteria.
This guide gives you a clear, honest comparison of all 13 Buckinghamshire grammar schools. We have used the latest available data (2024/2025 exam results, most recent Ofsted inspections, and publicly reported pupil data) to help you make an informed decision.
Aylesbury Grammar School
Aylesbury Grammar School (AGS) is one of the oldest schools in the country, founded in 1598. It is a boys’ school with a co-educational sixth form. AGS prides itself on breadth of opportunity — the school’s stated purpose is to “inspire and enable all students to flourish throughout their lives.” The atmosphere is academic but nurturing, with a strong house system and a wide range of extracurricular activities.
Key Stats
- Number of pupils: 1,344
- Number of boys: 1,344 (boys only, co-ed sixth form)
- Age range: 11–18
- Gender: Boys (co-ed in sixth form)
- School type: Academy converter
- Year 7 places: Approximately 180
Ofsted
AGS was rated Outstanding in its most recent inspection (November 2022). Inspectors noted:
“Pupils flourish in this exceptional school. They are proud to attend, and demonstrate strong levels of commitment to their education.”
“Leaders eloquently articulate the purpose and values of the school. They have high expectations for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).”
Exam Results
In 2024, AGS achieved 99% of GCSE grades at 9–4 (standard pass or above), with a strong proportion at grades 7–9. At A-Level, results consistently place AGS among the top-performing schools in the county.
University Destinations
AGS leavers go on to a wide range of Russell Group universities. Popular destinations include Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, UCL, Warwick, and Bristol.
Facilities
The school’s facilities include modern science laboratories, a sports hall, playing fields, and dedicated music and drama spaces. The sixth form centre was recently refurbished.
Admissions
Admission to Year 7 is through the Buckinghamshire Secondary Transfer Test (11+). The school uses distance-based criteria for oversubscription, with priority given to looked-after children and those with medical/social needs. The catchment area typically extends around 5–6 miles from the school.
Aylesbury High School
Aylesbury High School (AHS) is the sister school to AGS, located on the same campus in Aylesbury. It is a girls’ school with a co-educational sixth form. AHS describes its values as “boundless aspiration, resilient bravery, curious engagement and selfless generosity.” The school is known for its strong pastoral care and a culture that encourages girls to be ambitious and independent.
Key Stats
- Number of pupils: 1,358
- Number of girls: 1,358 (girls only, co-ed sixth form)
- Age range: 11–18
- Gender: Girls (co-ed in sixth form)
- School type: Academy converter
- Year 7 places: Approximately 180
Ofsted
AHS was rated Outstanding in its most recent inspection (December 2023). Inspectors said:
“Pupils are, rightly, proud to attend this excellent school. They meet its exceptionally high expectations, excelling academically and flourishing into well-rounded individuals.”
“Pupils love learning and embody the school’s values. They rise to high levels of challenge in lessons and are excited to learn more.”
Exam Results
In 2024, 98% of GCSE grades were at 9–4. A-Level results are consistently strong, with a high proportion of A*–B grades. AHS regularly features in national league tables for girls’ schools.
University Destinations
Leavers progress to top universities including Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, King’s College London, Durham, Exeter, and Edinburgh. Many students go on to study Medicine, Law, and STEM subjects.
Facilities
AHS shares some facilities with AGS, including sports grounds. The school has its own dedicated science block, arts studios, a library, and a sixth form common room.
Admissions
Entry is through the Buckinghamshire Secondary Transfer Test. Oversubscription criteria include distance, with priority for looked-after children and siblings.
Beaconsfield High School
https://www.beaconsfieldhigh.school/
Beaconsfield High School is a girls’ grammar school in the affluent town of Beaconsfield. The school’s motto is to “dare to be remarkable,” and it places strong emphasis on character development alongside academic achievement. The school has a reputation for being welcoming and community-focused.
Key Stats
- Number of pupils: 1,269
- Age range: 11–18
- Gender: Girls
- School type: Academy converter
- Year 7 places: Approximately 180
Ofsted
Beaconsfield High was rated Outstanding in its most recent inspection (December 2024). Inspectors highlighted:
“Pupils are very proud of their welcoming and happy school.”
“Staff ‘dare’ them ‘to be remarkable’. Pupils understand that this does not just apply to academic results. Indeed, it is more about their character and becoming a rounded individual.”
Exam Results
In 2024, 99% of GCSE grades were at 9–4. A-Level results are strong, with a significant proportion of entries achieving A*–A grades. The school performs particularly well in humanities and sciences.
University Destinations
Popular destinations include Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, UCL, Warwick, and Bristol. Students regularly secure places in Medicine, Dentistry, and Engineering.
Facilities
The school has modern science labs, a performing arts studio, sports hall, and extensive playing fields. A new sixth form centre has recently been developed.
Admissions
Entry is via the Buckinghamshire 11+. Beaconsfield High uses distance as its main oversubscription criterion, and the catchment is tight — typically around 4–5 miles. Living close to the school significantly improves your chances.
Burnham Grammar School
https://www.burnhamgrammar.org.uk/
Burnham Grammar School is a mixed grammar school in Burnham, near Slough. The school’s ethos centres on “Embracing Challenge” and preparing students for the future. Burnham Grammar has a reputation for strong community values and a supportive environment where students are encouraged to develop as well-rounded individuals.
Key Stats
- Number of pupils: 1,118
- Age range: 11–18
- Gender: Mixed
- School type: Academy converter
- Year 7 places: Approximately 150
Ofsted
Burnham Grammar was rated Good in its most recent inspection (September 2024). Inspectors noted:
“The school provides an ambitious and well-sequenced curriculum. Pupils achieve well across a range of subjects.”
“Pupils feel safe and happy at school.”
“Leaders have continued to improve the school since the previous inspection.”
Exam Results
In 2024, 37% of GCSE grades were at 7–9, with 81% of students achieving grade 5 or above in English and Maths. The Attainment 8 score of 56.7 sits above the national average. At A-Level, 19% of entries achieved A*–A and 43% achieved A*–B.
University Destinations
Burnham Grammar students go on to competitive universities including Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, UCL, King’s College London, Bath, Exeter, and Warwick. Popular courses include Medicine, Engineering, and Law.
Facilities
A major redevelopment programme completed in 2021 delivered modern science laboratories, additional classrooms, and improved sports facilities.
Admissions
Entry is through the Buckinghamshire 11+. The school uses distance-based oversubscription criteria. Burnham Grammar is popular with families in the Burnham, Taplow, and Slough areas.
Chesham Grammar School
https://www.cheshamgrammar.org/
Chesham Grammar School is a mixed grammar school in the market town of Chesham, at the end of the Metropolitan line. The school has a reputation for being exceptionally happy and welcoming, with strong relationships between staff and students. Its culture is built on the belief that every pupil has the potential to achieve highly.
Key Stats
- Number of pupils: 1,326
- Age range: 11–18
- Gender: Mixed
- School type: Academy converter
- Year 7 places: Approximately 180
Ofsted
Chesham Grammar School’s most recent inspection was in March 2025. The school has historically maintained a strong reputation. Inspectors have highlighted:
“This school ensures that all pupils flourish academically and personally. Its culture is exceptionally happy and welcoming.”
“Staff are highly ambitious for all pupils, regardless of their background or special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).”
Exam Results
In 2024, 99% of GCSE grades were at 9–4. A-Level results are consistently strong, with a good proportion of A*–A grades. The school has particular strengths in Mathematics and the Sciences.
University Destinations
Students regularly go on to Russell Group universities. Popular destinations include Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, UCL, Bristol, Warwick, and Bath.
Facilities
The school is set in attractive grounds with modern teaching facilities, a sports hall, playing fields, and well-equipped science and technology departments.
Admissions
Admission is via the Buckinghamshire 11+. Chesham Grammar serves the Chesham, Amersham, and wider Chiltern area. Oversubscription criteria include distance, with priority for looked-after children.
Dr Challoner’s Grammar School
Dr Challoner’s Grammar School is a boys’ grammar school in Amersham, founded in 1624. The school’s values are built around “aspiration, kindness and resilience.” Challoner’s is known for its vibrant community, strong academic results, and a rich extracurricular programme. The school places equal importance on academic rigour and personal development.
Key Stats
- Number of pupils: 1,368
- Age range: 11–18
- Gender: Boys (co-ed sixth form)
- School type: Academy converter
- Year 7 places: Approximately 180
Ofsted
Dr Challoner’s was rated Outstanding in its most recent inspection (November 2024). Inspectors said:
“Pupils and staff live and breathe the school’s values of ‘aspiration, kindness and resilience’.”
“The result is a vibrant, happy and inclusive school where academic rigour and personal development are equally important.”
“Staff firmly believe that all pupils can succeed and flourish. They ensure that high-quality learning is accessible to all.”
Exam Results
In 2024, 96% of GCSE grades were at 9–4. A-Level results are strong, with a high proportion of A*–B grades. The school is particularly strong in STEM subjects and regularly sends students to study Medicine and Engineering.
University Destinations
Popular destinations include Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, UCL, King’s College London, Durham, Bath, and Warwick. The school has a strong track record for Medicine and Oxbridge applications.
Facilities
Facilities include modern science laboratories, a sports centre, extensive playing fields, and dedicated music and drama spaces. The school has invested significantly in its IT infrastructure.
Admissions
Admission is through the Buckinghamshire 11+. Challoner’s uses distance-based oversubscription criteria, with priority for looked-after children and those with siblings at the school. The catchment area covers Amersham and the surrounding Chiltern villages.
Dr Challoner’s High School
https://www.challonershigh.com/
Dr Challoner’s High School is a girls’ grammar school in Little Chalfont, the sister school to Dr Challoner’s Grammar School. The school has a reputation for being encouraging and supportive, with a strong sense of community. Students are inspired to make the most of the opportunities on offer, and the school is known for its ambitious academic culture.
Key Stats
- Number of pupils: 1,358
- Age range: 11–18
- Gender: Girls
- School type: Academy converter
- Year 7 places: Approximately 180
Ofsted
Dr Challoner’s High was rated Outstanding in its most recent inspection (November 2023). Inspectors noted:
“Pupils are unwaveringly encouraging and supportive of each other at this outstanding school.”
“They recognise the rich history of excellence. Pupils are inspired to make the most of the interesting and varied opportunities on offer.”
Exam Results
In 2024, 99% of GCSE grades were at 9–4. A-Level results are consistently strong, with a significant proportion of A*–A grades. The school regularly achieves excellent results in Modern Languages and Humanities.
University Destinations
Leavers progress to top universities including Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, UCL, Durham, Edinburgh, and Exeter. Popular courses include Medicine, Law, Veterinary Science, and Languages.
Facilities
The school has well-equipped science labs, a library, sports hall, and playing fields. Sixth form students benefit from a dedicated study centre.
Admissions
Entry is through the Buckinghamshire 11+. The school uses distance-based oversubscription criteria. The catchment area covers Little Chalfont, Amersham, Chalfont St Peter, and surrounding areas.
John Hampden Grammar School
https://www.jhgs.bucks.sch.uk/
John Hampden Grammar School (JHGS) is a boys’ grammar school in High Wycombe. The school’s ethos is captured in its “#BeMore” statement, encouraging students to be ambitious, confident, happy, and kind. JHGS has a strong sporting tradition and a reputation for developing well-rounded young men.
Key Stats
- Number of pupils: 1,271
- Age range: 11–18
- Gender: Boys
- School type: Academy converter
- Year 7 places: Approximately 180
Ofsted
JHGS was rated Outstanding in its most recent inspection (September 2022). Inspectors commented:
“The school’s culture is summarised in its ethos statement: ‘#BeMore’. Pupils and staff embrace this principle in all areas of school life.”
“Pupils and students are ambitious, confident, happy and kind. Pupils and students behave exceptionally well and display exemplary character.”
Exam Results
In 2024, 99% of GCSE grades were at 9–4. A-Level results are strong, with good proportions of A*–A and A*–B grades. The school has particular strengths in Mathematics and Physical Education.
University Destinations
Students go on to a range of universities including Oxford, Cambridge, Bath, Loughborough, Bristol, and Exeter. The school has a strong record for Sports Science and Engineering placements.
Facilities
JHGS has extensive sporting facilities including playing fields, a sports hall, and fitness suite. Academic facilities include modern science labs and IT suites.
Admissions
Admission is through the Buckinghamshire 11+. Oversubscription criteria include distance, with priority for looked-after children. The school serves the High Wycombe area and surrounding villages.
Royal Grammar School
The Royal Grammar School (RGS) in High Wycombe is a boys’ grammar school with a long and distinguished history. RGS offers both day and boarding places, making it unique among Buckinghamshire grammar schools. The school’s vision is to offer all students “an exceptional, all-round education that will prepare them not just for exams, but for a life of leadership, collaboration, and meaningful contribution.”
Key Stats
- Number of pupils: Approximately 900
- Age range: 11–18
- Gender: Boys
- School type: Academy converter (with boarding)
- Year 7 places: Approximately 150
Ofsted
RGS’s most recent ungraded inspection (March 2025) signalled that the school has the potential to achieve Outstanding. The school has a strong academic reputation and an ethos of excellence.
Exam Results
RGS consistently achieves strong GCSE and A-Level results. The school reported exceptional A-Level results in 2025, described as “a landmark year.” A high proportion of students achieve A*–A grades at A-Level.
University Destinations
RGS has an outstanding record for university destinations, including regular Oxbridge placements. Popular universities include Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, UCL, Durham, and Bristol. The school is known for strong performance in STEM and Humanities.
Facilities
As a school with boarding, RGS has extensive facilities including boarding houses, a chapel, sports fields, a swimming pool, and well-equipped academic departments. The school is set in attractive grounds in the heart of High Wycombe.
Admissions
Day places are allocated through the Buckinghamshire 11+. Boarding places have a separate admissions process. RGS is one of only a few state boarding schools in England, meaning tuition is free but boarding fees apply. The boarding option makes RGS accessible to families from further afield.
Royal Latin School
The Royal Latin School (RLS) is a mixed grammar school in Buckingham, making it the most northerly of the Buckinghamshire grammar schools. The school’s values are based on “LATIN Learning” — Leadership, Aspiration, Teamwork, Innovation, and Nurturing. RLS has a strong community feel and students are described as incredibly happy and proud to be part of the school.
Key Stats
- Number of pupils: 1,322
- Age range: 11–18
- Gender: Mixed
- School type: Academy converter
- Year 7 places: Approximately 180
Ofsted
Royal Latin School was rated Good in its most recent inspection (November 2022). Inspectors noted:
“Pupils are incredibly happy and proud to be part of this high-achieving school.”
“The school has a clearly defined ethos and set of values based around ‘LATIN Learning’. This is the bedrock of all leaders’ and pupils’ work.”
Exam Results
In 2024, 98% of GCSE grades were at 9–4. A-Level results are strong, with the school regularly featuring among top Buckinghamshire schools for value added.
University Destinations
Students go on to a wide range of universities. RLS has a particularly strong record for placements at Russell Group universities and for competitive courses including Medicine and Veterinary Science.
Facilities
The school has modern facilities including science labs, a sports hall, performing arts space, and extensive playing fields. The sixth form centre has been recently upgraded.
Admissions
Admission is through the Buckinghamshire 11+. RLS serves the Buckingham, Winslow, and surrounding rural areas. The catchment is generally wider than for schools closer to London, making it accessible to families across north Buckinghamshire.
Sir Henry Floyd Grammar School
https://www.sirhenryfloyd.co.uk/
Sir Henry Floyd Grammar School is a mixed grammar school in Aylesbury. The school is known for its exceptional pastoral care and its commitment to every student’s wellbeing. Inspectors have praised the school for its happy and safe environment, where students feel nurtured and supported.
Key Stats
- Number of pupils: 1,348
- Age range: 11–18
- Gender: Mixed
- School type: Academy converter
- Year 7 places: Approximately 180
Ofsted
Sir Henry Floyd was rated Outstanding in its most recent inspection (February 2024). Inspectors highlighted:
“Pupils and sixth form students flourish at this school. They feel happy and safe here.”
“They know that the school goes out of its way to provide them with nurture, care and an outstanding educational experience.”
“Sixth-form students receive an exceptional offer. The behaviour of pupils is exemplary.”
Exam Results
In 2024, 98% of GCSE grades were at 9–4. A-Level results are consistently strong, with the sixth form described by inspectors as “exceptional.”
University Destinations
Students go on to competitive universities including Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, UCL, Bristol, Warwick, and Exeter. The school has a strong track record for Medicine and STEM subjects.
Facilities
The school has modern facilities including well-equipped science labs, a sports hall, and a recently updated sixth form centre.
Admissions
Entry is through the Buckinghamshire 11+. Sir Henry Floyd uses distance-based oversubscription criteria. The school is located on Oxford Road in Aylesbury and serves the town and surrounding villages.
Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School
Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School (SWBGS) is a mixed grammar school in the riverside town of Marlow. The school is known for its academic rigour and strong sense of community. Located on West Street, SWBGS has a reputation for excellent results and a supportive environment.
Key Stats
- Number of pupils: 1,205
- Age range: 11–18
- Gender: Mixed
- School type: Academy converter
- Year 7 places: Approximately 150
Ofsted
Sir William Borlase’s was rated Outstanding in its most recent inspection (May 2024). The school has maintained consistently high standards.
Exam Results
SWBGS is one of the highest-performing grammar schools in Buckinghamshire. In 2024, 98% of GCSE grades were at 9–4, with 96% achieving grade 5 or above in English and Maths. The Attainment 8 score of 72.4 is well above the national average of 46.
At A-Level, 44% of entries achieved A*–A grades, and the school’s average A-Level point score of 45.19 (grade A–) compares very favourably to the national average of 35.6 (grade B–).
University Destinations
SWBGS has an outstanding record for university placements. Students regularly secure places at Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, UCL, Bath, Exeter, and Bristol. The school has a high proportion of students progressing to Russell Group universities.
Facilities
Facilities include modern science laboratories, a sports hall, playing fields, and well-maintained academic buildings. The school’s Marlow location gives it access to riverside grounds and excellent sports pitches.
Admissions
Admission is through the Buckinghamshire 11+. SWBGS uses distance-based oversubscription criteria. The school serves Marlow and the surrounding areas, including parts of Bourne End and Medmenham. The catchment is typically tight due to high demand.
Wycombe High School
Wycombe High School (WHS) is a girls’ grammar school in High Wycombe. The school’s values centre on “limitless ambition, infectious joy, insatiable curiosity and generous spirit.” WHS has a strong academic tradition and a reputation for fostering independence and confidence in its students. The school encourages participation in a wide range of extracurricular activities.
Key Stats
- Number of pupils: 1,361
- Age range: 11–18
- Gender: Girls
- School type: Academy converter
- Year 7 places: Approximately 180
Ofsted
Wycombe High School was rated Outstanding in its most recent inspection (April 2024). Inspectors noted:
“At Wycombe High School, pupils achieve academic excellence and contribute eagerly to all aspects of school life.”
“Interactions between pupils and staff are defined by a sense of community and mutual respect.”
“There is a high level of trust between staff and pupils which contributes to a positive schoolwide culture.”
Exam Results
In 2024, 99% of GCSE grades were at 9–4. A-Level results are strong, with the school regularly achieving a high proportion of A*–A and A*–B grades. WHS is particularly strong in Sciences, Mathematics, and Modern Languages.
University Destinations
Leavers progress to a wide range of top universities. Popular destinations include Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, UCL, King’s College London, Bath, Warwick, and Edinburgh. Students regularly secure places in Medicine, Dentistry, and Law.
Facilities
The school has modern science and technology facilities, a sports hall, playing fields, and dedicated arts and music spaces. The sixth form common room and study areas have been recently updated.
Admissions
Admission is through the Buckinghamshire 11+. WHS uses distance-based oversubscription criteria, with priority for looked-after children and siblings. The school serves High Wycombe and surrounding areas including Hazlemere, Tylers Green, and Downley.
In Conclusion
All 13 Buckinghamshire grammar schools offer an excellent education, but they differ in character, location, and admissions catchment. When choosing a school, consider:
- Distance from your home — this is the primary oversubscription criterion for all schools
- Single-sex vs co-educational — four schools are boys-only, three are girls-only, and six are mixed
- Location — schools are spread across the county, from Buckingham in the north to Marlow in the south
- Sixth form provision — all schools have sixth forms, with some offering co-educational sixth form even if the main school is single-sex
The most important factor in securing a grammar school place is strong performance in the Buckinghamshire Secondary Transfer Test. Preparation makes a significant difference.
Think Smart Academy has helped thousands of students gain entry to grammar schools across Buckinghamshire and beyond. Many of our students continue with us through GCSE and A-Level, achieving outstanding results.