Buckinghamshire 11+ Mock Exams
Realistic mock exams for the Buckinghamshire secondary transfer test. Practise under timed conditions with instant results and detailed performance analysis for 2026 grammar school entry.
The 11+ Exam in Buckinghamshire
Buckinghamshire is one of the few remaining counties in England with a fully selective secondary education system. The county has 13 grammar schools (including Sir William Ramsay School in Hazlemere, which is sometimes counted among them), and the Buckinghamshire secondary transfer test is used to assess whether children are suited to a grammar school education. The test is a key part of the admissions process for all Buckinghamshire grammar schools. For a full overview of regional options, visit our 11+ mock exams hub.
The Buckinghamshire secondary transfer test has historically used a mix of question formats. Over the years, the test has drawn on elements associated with both GL Assessment and CEM (Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring) style testing. The specific format can evolve from year to year, so parents should always check the Buckinghamshire Council website for the most up-to-date information on the test structure.
The Buckinghamshire secondary transfer test is administered by Buckinghamshire Council, and parents register through the council’s admissions process. Registration typically opens during the summer term of Year 5, and the test is usually sat in mid-September of Year 6. Results are released in mid-October, and parents then apply for school places through the standard admissions process.
Out-of-county applicants can also apply to sit the Buckinghamshire secondary transfer test, though the registration process may differ. Parents living outside Buckinghamshire should check the Buckinghamshire Council admissions pages for details on how to register, as additional steps or earlier deadlines may apply. For guidance on structuring your child's preparation, see our complete guide to preparing for 11+ mock exams.
Areas Assessed in the Buckinghamshire 11+
The Buckinghamshire secondary transfer test has historically assessed children across several key areas. The specific weighting and format may vary, so the information below provides a general overview of the subjects typically covered.
| Subject Area | What Is Assessed |
|---|---|
| Verbal Reasoning | Logic and language-based problem solving, including word patterns, analogies, codes and sequences. |
| Non-Verbal Reasoning | Pattern recognition, spatial awareness and abstract reasoning using shapes, diagrams and sequences. |
| English | Reading comprehension, grammar, punctuation, spelling and vocabulary. |
| Mathematics | Arithmetic, fractions, decimals, percentages, geometry, data handling and problem solving. |
Note: The exact test format, number of papers and question types can change from year to year. Always check the Buckinghamshire Council admissions website for the current test structure before finalising your preparation approach.
Grammar Schools in Buckinghamshire
Buckinghamshire has around 13 grammar schools spread across the county. Below is a list of the main Buckinghamshire grammar schools.
Aylesbury Grammar School
Aylesbury · Boys
Aylesbury High School
Aylesbury · Girls
Royal Grammar School
High Wycombe · Boys
Wycombe High School
High Wycombe · Girls
Dr Challoner's Grammar School
Amersham · Boys
Dr Challoner's High School
Little Chalfont · Girls
Chesham Grammar School
Chesham · Co-ed
John Hampden Grammar School
High Wycombe · Boys
Sir Henry Floyd Grammar School
Aylesbury · Co-ed
Burnham Grammar School
Burnham · Co-ed
Beaconsfield High School
Beaconsfield · Girls
Sir William Borlase's Grammar School
Marlow · Co-ed
How to Prepare for the Buckinghamshire 11+
Because the Buckinghamshire test format has drawn on elements of both GL and CEM styles, a broad-based preparation approach covering all core 11+ subjects is recommended.
1. Check the Current Format
Before starting preparation, check the Buckinghamshire Council website for the latest details on the test format. Understanding the structure and question types will help you focus your child's preparation effectively.
2. Build Core English Skills
Develop strong reading comprehension, grammar, punctuation, spelling and vocabulary skills. Wide reading across different genres helps build both vocabulary breadth and comprehension speed, which are valuable regardless of the specific test format.
3. Strengthen Mathematics
Cover the Year 5 and Year 6 Maths curriculum thoroughly, including fractions, decimals, percentages, geometry, data handling and problem solving. Build confidence with both mental arithmetic and written methods.
4. Develop Reasoning Skills
Both verbal and non-verbal reasoning are commonly assessed. Since these subjects are not typically taught in school, dedicated practice is essential. Work through a variety of question types to build familiarity and speed.
5. Practise Under Timed Conditions
Time management is critical in the Buckinghamshire test. Start with untimed practice to build understanding, then gradually introduce time limits to develop pace and accuracy under pressure.
6. Use Mock Exams Regularly
Full-length mock exams are one of the best ways to prepare. They replicate the exam experience, build confidence and stamina, and provide detailed feedback on areas that need further work. Aim to take several mock exams in the months leading up to the test.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Buckinghamshire 11+
Buckinghamshire has around 13 grammar schools (depending on how they are counted), making it one of the counties with a significant number of selective schools. These schools are located across the county, with several in Aylesbury, High Wycombe and Chesham. Each school has its own admissions criteria and catchment considerations, but all use the Buckinghamshire secondary transfer test as part of the selection process.
The Buckinghamshire secondary transfer test is typically sat in September of Year 6. Registration is managed through the Buckinghamshire Council admissions process, and parents usually need to register during the summer term of Year 5. It is important to check the Buckinghamshire Council website each year for exact dates and registration deadlines.
The Buckinghamshire secondary transfer test has historically used a mix of formats. The test format has evolved over time and has drawn on elements associated with both GL Assessment and CEM-style testing. Because the format can change, parents should always verify the current test structure with the Buckinghamshire Council before beginning preparation. Practising with a range of 11+ question types covering verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, English and maths provides a strong foundation regardless of the specific format.
Mock exams are one of the most effective preparation tools for the Buckinghamshire 11+. They allow your child to experience the exam format under timed conditions, building familiarity and reducing exam-day anxiety. The detailed performance reports after each mock exam highlight strengths and areas for improvement, enabling targeted revision. Regular mock exam practice also develops the time management skills that are critical for performing well under the strict time limits of the real test.
Prepare for the Buckinghamshire 11+ with Confidence
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