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Grammar School Guide
Everything you need to know about grammar school admissions in Slough and Buckinghamshire — from exam formats and key dates to choosing the right school for your child.
Why Grammar Schools?
Grammar schools consistently rank among the best-performing state schools in England. They offer rigorous academic programmes, smaller class sizes, and a culture of high expectations — all without the cost of private education.
For families in Slough and Buckinghamshire, grammar schools represent an exceptional opportunity. But gaining entry is competitive: the 11+ exam requires thorough preparation across multiple subjects, and understanding the differences between exam boards is essential.
This guide breaks it all down — the two exam systems you need to know about, the schools available in each area, and how to give your child the best possible chance of success.
Two Areas, Two Exam Systems
Slough and Buckinghamshire use different 11+ exam boards. Understanding which one applies to your target school is the first step.
Slough — GL Assessment
Slough grammar schools use the GL Assessment 11+ exam. The test covers:
- English (comprehension, writing)
- Mathematics (arithmetic, problem-solving)
- Verbal Reasoning
- Non-Verbal Reasoning
Tests are typically sat in September of Year 6, with results arriving in October and offers in March.
Buckinghamshire — CEM
Buckinghamshire grammar schools use the CEM (Centre for Evaluation & Monitoring) exam. This tests:
- Verbal Ability (vocabulary, comprehension)
- Numerical Ability (maths, data interpretation)
- Non-Verbal Ability (spatial reasoning, patterns)
The CEM exam is known for being less predictable — question styles can vary year to year, making broad preparation essential.
Grammar Schools in Slough
Slough has five grammar schools, all using the GL Assessment entrance exam. All are non-fee-paying state schools.
| School | Type | Exam Board |
|---|---|---|
| Langley Grammar School | Mixed | GL Assessment |
| Herschel Grammar School | Mixed | GL Assessment |
| Upton Court Grammar School | Mixed | GL Assessment |
| St Bernard's Catholic Grammar School | Mixed | GL Assessment |
| Lynch Hill Enterprise Academy (Grammar Stream) | Mixed | GL Assessment |
Grammar Schools in Buckinghamshire
Buckinghamshire has 13 grammar schools — more than any other county in England. All use the CEM entrance exam.
| School | Type | Exam Board |
|---|---|---|
| Royal Grammar School, High Wycombe | Boys | CEM / Bucks 11+ |
| Wycombe High School | Girls | CEM / Bucks 11+ |
| John Hampden Grammar School | Boys | CEM / Bucks 11+ |
| Aylesbury Grammar School | Boys | CEM / Bucks 11+ |
| Aylesbury High School | Girls | CEM / Bucks 11+ |
| Chesham Grammar School | Mixed | CEM / Bucks 11+ |
| Burnham Grammar School | Mixed | CEM / Bucks 11+ |
| Dr Challoner's Grammar School | Boys | CEM / Bucks 11+ |
| Dr Challoner's High School | Girls | CEM / Bucks 11+ |
When Should Preparation Start?
Most families begin 11+ preparation in Year 4 (ages 8-9), giving approximately 12-18 months of structured preparation before the exam in September of Year 6. This allows time to build core skills without excessive pressure.
Starting in Year 5 is still possible, but requires a more intensive programme. Starting any later than January of Year 5 significantly narrows the window — particularly for the CEM exam, where broad exposure across question types is key.
12-18 months. Build foundations, identify gaps, steady progress.
6-9 months. More intensive sessions needed. Focus on weakest areas.
Requires 1-to-1 tuition and holiday intensives. Targeted approach essential.
How Think Smart Academy Prepares Your Child
Over 1,000 grammar school placements and counting. Here's what sets our 11+ programme apart.
Free Diagnostic Assessment
Every child begins with a 30-minute diagnostic to pinpoint strengths and gaps. No generic plan — your child's programme is built around their actual starting point.
Board-Specific Preparation
GL and CEM require different approaches. We tailor preparation to the exact exam board your target school uses — not a one-size-fits-all workbook.
Termly Mock Exams
Regular timed mock exams in realistic conditions. Your child builds exam technique and confidence while you get clear progress reports showing exactly where they stand.
Small Groups (Max 8)
Group sessions from just £15/hour with a maximum of 8 students — small enough for individual attention, affordable enough for sustained preparation over 12+ months.
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