Royal Latin School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Type: Selective grammar school (academy converter)
• Location: Chandos Road, Buckingham, Buckinghamshire, MK18 1AX
• Gender: Mixed (ages 11-18)
• Current Roll: 1,312 students
• Headteacher: Mr Ian Chislett
• Ofsted Rating: Good (November 2022)
• 11+ Required: Yes - competitive selective entry
• Religious Character: Non-denominational

About Royal Latin School

Royal Latin School occupies a distinguished position amongst Buckinghamshire's selective grammar schools, serving the historic market town of Buckingham and surrounding areas. Founded with royal patronage, the school maintains strong academic traditions whilst embracing modern educational approaches that prepare students for university and beyond.

The school's comprehensive sixth form attracts students from across north Buckinghamshire and neighbouring counties, creating a diverse and academically ambitious community. With excellent transport links and a central Buckingham location, Royal Latin draws families who recognise the value of a rigorous grammar school education within a supportive environment.

Academic excellence remains at the heart of the school's mission, with consistently strong GCSE and A-level results that reflect both the calibre of students and the quality of teaching. The school's commitment to developing well-rounded individuals extends beyond the classroom through extensive extracurricular programmes, leadership opportunities, and community engagement initiatives.

Recent investments in facilities and technology ensure students benefit from modern learning environments whilst preserving the school's collegiate atmosphere. The leadership team, headed by Mr Ian Chislett, emphasises high expectations, personal responsibility, and academic rigour - values that resonate strongly with families seeking excellence in secondary education.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Entry to Royal Latin School requires success in Buckinghamshire's standardised 11+ examination, administered by the local authority on behalf of all county grammar schools. This selective process ensures students possess the academic ability to thrive in a challenging grammar school environment.

The assessment comprises four key components designed to evaluate different aspects of academic potential:

• Verbal Reasoning: Tests logical thinking through language, including vocabulary, comprehension, and pattern recognition using words
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Assesses spatial awareness and logical thinking through shapes, patterns, and visual sequences
• Mathematics: Evaluates numerical reasoning, problem-solving abilities, and mathematical concepts appropriate for Year 6 level
• English: Focuses on reading comprehension, grammar, punctuation, and written expression skills

The examination typically takes place in September, with results released in October. Students must achieve scores that place them within the top percentile of test-takers to qualify for grammar school places. Given the competitive nature of entry, thorough preparation is essential for success.

Buckinghamshire operates a coordinated admissions system, meaning families can express preferences for multiple grammar schools whilst taking the examination only once. Royal Latin School consistently attracts applications from high-achieving students across the region, making places highly sought after.

How to Apply

The application process for Royal Latin School follows Buckinghamshire Council's coordinated admissions timeline, with specific deadlines that must be strictly observed:

Step 1: Register for the 11+ Test
Complete online registration through Buckinghamshire Council's website by the May deadline preceding your child's Year 6. Late registrations incur additional fees and may not be accommodated.

Step 2: Submit Secondary Application
Complete the Common Application Form (CAF) online, ranking up to four grammar school preferences. Royal Latin School should be included if you wish your child to be considered for a place.

Step 3: Prepare for Assessment
Ensure your child is familiar with 11+ question formats and timing. Practise papers and preparation courses can help build confidence and technique.

Step 4: Sit the 11+ Examination
Attend the designated test centre in September. Students typically take the assessment at local primary schools or testing venues arranged by the council.

Step 5: Await Results and Offers
Qualification results are released in October, with secondary school offers made on National Offer Day in March. Accept or decline offers according to the specified timeline.

Families moving into Buckinghamshire after deadlines should contact the school directly to discuss in-year applications and testing arrangements. Appeal processes exist for unsuccessful applications, though places remain highly competitive throughout the academic year.

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition's comprehensive 11+ preparation programme has successfully supported numerous families in securing places at Royal Latin School and other prestigious Buckinghamshire grammar schools. Our approach combines academic rigour with personalised support, ensuring each child reaches their full potential.

Targeted 11+ Preparation:
Our experienced tutors provide structured preparation across all four assessment areas, using proven methodologies that build both knowledge and examination technique. We understand Buckinghamshire's specific requirements and tailor our approach accordingly.

Practise and Assessment:
Regular mock examinations under timed conditions help students develop confidence and identify areas requiring additional focus. Our detailed feedback enables targeted improvement in the crucial months leading to the assessment.

Strategic School Selection:
With deep knowledge of Buckinghamshire's grammar school landscape, we help families make informed decisions about school preferences, considering factors such as academic fit, travel requirements, and sixth form provisions.

Application Support:
Our team guides families through the entire application process, ensuring deadlines are met and documentation is completed accurately. We provide clarity on procedures that can seem complex to families new to the grammar school system.

Ongoing Academic Support:
For students who secure places at Royal Latin School, our continued support helps ensure smooth transition and sustained academic success throughout their grammar school journey.

Contact Taylor Tuition today to discuss how our proven expertise can help your child achieve their goal of joining Royal Latin School's distinguished academic community.