Burnham Grammar School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School: Burnham Grammar School
• Location: Hogfair Lane, Burnham, Buckinghamshire, SL1 7HG
• Type: Co-educational state grammar school
• Age Range: 11-18 years
• Students: Approximately 1,250
• Head: Dr Andrew Gillespie
• Status: Academy since 2011, specialist science college designation
• Notable Alumni: Jimmy Carr, Tracey Ullman

About Burnham Grammar School

Burnham Grammar School represents one of Buckinghamshire's most established grammar schools, serving families across South Buckinghamshire and the Thames Valley since 1967. Located in the historic village of Burnham, the school combines traditional academic rigour with modern educational approaches, creating an environment where intellectual curiosity and personal development flourish.

The school's distinctive vertical tutoring system sets it apart from many grammar schools, fostering cross-year mentorship and building a strong sense of community. This approach enables older students to support younger pupils whilst developing leadership skills themselves. BGS has earned particular recognition for its science programmes, having achieved specialist science college status in 2004, which continues to drive innovation in STEM education.

With approximately 1,250 students, BGS maintains the ideal balance between offering comprehensive opportunities and preserving the personal attention that characterises the finest grammar school education. The school's commitment to developing each student's potential extends well beyond the classroom, with an extensive co-curricular programme that includes everything from competitive debating to elite sports teams.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Burnham Grammar School participates in the Buckinghamshire 11+ selection process, administered by the local authority. The assessment takes place in September of Year 6, approximately one year before students would begin at the school.

The 11+ examination comprises three core components:

• Verbal Reasoning: Tests logical thinking, vocabulary, and comprehension through word-based puzzles and language analysis
• Mathematics: Assesses numerical reasoning, problem-solving abilities, and mathematical concepts appropriate to Year 6 level
• English: Evaluates reading comprehension, grammar, spelling, and written expression skills

Students must achieve the qualifying standard across all three papers to be eligible for grammar school placement. The assessment is designed to identify children who will thrive in a fast-paced, academically challenging environment whilst contributing positively to the school community.

Results are typically available in October, with the main allocation round taking place in March of the following year through Buckinghamshire's coordinated admissions process.

How to Apply

The application process for Burnham Grammar School follows Buckinghamshire's standardised grammar school admissions procedure:

Step 1: Register for the 11+ Test
Parents must register their child for the Buckinghamshire 11+ assessment by the specified deadline, typically in late June or early July of Year 5. Registration is completed online through the Buckinghamshire Council website.

Step 2: Prepare for Assessment
Students should familiarise themselves with the test format and question types. Practise papers and preparation guidance are available through the local authority and various educational resources.

Step 3: Sit the 11+ Examination
The assessment takes place in September at designated test centres across Buckinghamshire. Students typically sit all three papers on the same day.

Step 4: Receive Results
11+ results are communicated to parents in October, indicating whether their child has achieved the qualifying standard for grammar school admission.

Step 5: Submit Secondary School Application
Regardless of 11+ results, all parents must complete the standard secondary school application form by the national deadline (31st October). BGS should be listed as a preference for children who have qualified.

Step 6: Allocation Results
Final school places are allocated in March through the coordinated admissions process, taking into account qualifying scores, preferences expressed, and available places.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition's comprehensive 11+ preparation programme has successfully supported hundreds of families in securing places at Burnham Grammar School and other prestigious grammar schools across Buckinghamshire. Our approach combines academic excellence with the personal attention that enables each child to perform at their best.

Our specialist tutors understand the specific requirements of the Buckinghamshire 11+ assessment and have developed targeted strategies for each component. We provide personalised coaching in verbal reasoning techniques, mathematical problem-solving methods, and advanced English comprehension skills that align precisely with BGS's academic expectations.

Beyond subject-specific preparation, we offer invaluable guidance on examination technique, time management, and confidence-building strategies. Our tutors work closely with families to develop realistic preparation timelines, ensuring children approach the assessment feeling confident and well-prepared rather than overwhelmed.

For families considering Burnham Grammar School, we provide detailed insights into the school's ethos, academic programmes, and expectations. This helps ensure that families make informed decisions about whether BGS aligns with their child's educational needs and aspirations.

Our track record speaks for itself: Taylor Tuition students consistently achieve outstanding results in the 11+ assessment, with many securing places at their first-choice grammar schools. We understand that each child's journey is unique, and our flexible approach ensures that every student receives the support they need to unlock their potential and achieve their academic goals.