Wycombe High School: Comprehensive 11+ Admissions Guide

Key Information Summary

• School Type: Girls' Grammar School (Academy)
• Age Range: 11-18 years
• Location: Marlow Road, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire HP11 1TB
• Students: Approximately 1,300
• Headteacher: Mrs Nicola Renyard
• Ofsted Rating: Outstanding
• Annual Intake: 192 students (Year 7)
• Entrance Requirements: 11+ examination and catchment area priority

About Wycombe High School

Wycombe High School holds the distinction of being Buckinghamshire's first state grammar school for girls, founded in 1901. This historic institution has evolved into one of the region's most sought-after educational establishments, serving approximately 1,300 students across its 11-18 age range.

The school's academic excellence was recognised when it received the prestigious title of 'Southeast Secondary School of the Year' by The Sunday Times in 2022. Having achieved academy status in 2011, Wycombe High School maintains its selective tradition whilst embracing modern educational approaches.

Located in High Wycombe's heart, the school benefits from excellent transport links and serves families across Buckinghamshire. The institution's commitment to academic rigour is matched by its dedication to developing confident, articulate young women prepared for leadership roles in their chosen fields.

The school's curriculum philosophy centres on providing breadth and flexibility, ensuring each student discovers her strengths whilst maintaining high standards across all subjects. This approach has consistently produced exceptional GCSE and A-level results, with many graduates progressing to Russell Group universities.

The 11+ Assessment Process

Wycombe High School utilises Buckinghamshire's standardised 11+ examination system to select its annual intake of 192 students. The assessment evaluates students across four key areas:

• Verbal Reasoning: Testing comprehension, vocabulary, and logical thinking using language-based problems
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Assessing spatial awareness and pattern recognition through visual puzzles
• Mathematics: Covering numerical reasoning, problem-solving, and mathematical concepts appropriate for Year 6 level
• English: Evaluating reading comprehension, writing skills, and grammatical understanding

The examination takes place annually in September, with results released in October. Students must achieve the qualifying score set by Buckinghamshire County Council to be eligible for grammar school places.

The 11+ format at Wycombe High School follows the county-wide standard, ensuring fairness across all Buckinghamshire grammar schools. The examination is designed to identify students who will thrive in the school's academically rigorous environment.

How to Apply

The application process for Wycombe High School follows a structured timeline with specific deadlines:

Step 1: 11+ Registration
Registration opens on 3rd May and closes on 14th June each year. Parents must register their child through the Buckinghamshire County Council website during this period.

Step 2: Entrance Examination
The 11+ examination takes place in September (typically mid-month). Students sit the test at designated centres across Buckinghamshire.

Step 3: Secondary School Application
Parents must complete the Common Application Form, listing Wycombe High School as one of their preferred schools. Applications open in early September and must be submitted by 31st October.

Step 4: Results and Allocation
11+ results are released in October, followed by secondary school allocations in March of the following year.

Admission Criteria Priority Order:

• Students achieving the qualifying score within the designated catchment area
• Siblings of current students (within catchment)
• Distance from school (shortest distance measured from home to school)

How Taylor Tuition Can Help

Taylor Tuition's proven approach to grammar school preparation has helped numerous families secure places at Wycombe High School. Our comprehensive support programme is specifically designed for the demands of Buckinghamshire's 11+ system.

Tailored 11+ Preparation
Our experienced tutors provide targeted coaching in all four 11+ components, with particular emphasis on the specific question styles and time constraints of the Buckinghamshire examination. We utilise practice papers that mirror the actual test format, ensuring students are thoroughly prepared.

Strategic Application Guidance
Understanding Wycombe High School's admission criteria is crucial for successful applications. We provide detailed guidance on catchment areas, application timing, and school preference strategies to maximise your daughter's chances of securing a place.

Comprehensive Assessment Programme
Our regular mock examinations and progress assessments ensure students are working towards the qualifying standards expected by Wycombe High School. We provide detailed feedback and personalised improvement plans throughout the preparation period.

Interview and Transition Support
Beyond examination preparation, we offer guidance on the transition to grammar school life, helping students develop the confidence and study skills necessary to excel in Wycombe High School's demanding academic environment.

Contact Taylor Tuition today to discuss how we can support your daughter's journey to Wycombe High School, one of Buckinghamshire's most prestigious educational institutions.