John Hampden Grammar School (JHGS): 11+ Practice Papers with Video Explanations
John Hampden Grammar School (JHGS) is a prestigious boys’ grammar school located in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire. Established in the early 20th century, the school has built a reputation for academic excellence, strong extracurricular programs, and a commitment to developing well-rounded individuals.
Historical Overview
- Founding (1893):
- The school was founded as the Wycombe Technical School, originally focusing on providing technical and vocational education to boys in the local area.
- Renaming and Evolution (1930s–1940s):
- In the mid-20th century, the school was renamed after John Hampden, a local historical figure and prominent parliamentarian during the English Civil War.
- It transitioned into a grammar school, aligning its curriculum to focus on academic and intellectual development.
- Modern Growth (1990s–2000s):
- The school expanded significantly, introducing new facilities and broadening its curriculum to include a focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects.
- Academy Status (2011):
- JHGS converted to an academy, gaining greater control over its finances and curriculum while retaining its grammar school ethos.
Current Profile
- Pupil Numbers:
- The school educates approximately 1,200 students, including around 250 Sixth Form students.
- Gender and Age Range:
- JHGS is a boys-only school for ages 11 to 16, with a co-educational Sixth Form for ages 16 to 18.
- Admissions:
- Entry is based on performance in the 11 Plus Secondary Transfer Test (STT), managed by Buckinghamshire Council.
Facilities
John Hampden Grammar School is well-equipped with modern facilities to support both academic and extracurricular activities:
- Academic Facilities:
- State-of-the-art science laboratories designed for advanced research and experiments.
- A modern library and resource centre for independent learning.
- Specialist rooms for subjects like art, design and technology, and IT suites for computing and coding.
- Sports Facilities:
- A large sports hall and gymnasium.
- Extensive playing fields for rugby, football, cricket, and athletics.
- An AstroTurf pitch and tennis courts.
- Creative Arts Spaces:
- A dedicated music suite with practice rooms and recording equipment.
- A drama studio and performance space for school productions.
- Sixth Form Center:
- A purpose-built Sixth Form area with study spaces, IT facilities, and a common room for relaxation.
- Sustainability Features:
- JHGS is committed to environmental sustainability, incorporating solar panels and energy-efficient systems.
Academic Achievements
John Hampden Grammar School is consistently ranked among the top grammar schools in Buckinghamshire.
- GCSE and A-Level Success:
- Students achieve exceptional results in GCSEs and A-Levels, with many progressing to Russell Group universities and Oxbridge.
- Specialist Strengths:
- Outstanding performance in Mathematics, Physics, and Computer Science, with a significant focus on STEM education.
- High achievement in English Literature, Modern Foreign Languages, and Economics.
- Recognition for Excellence:
- Regularly ranked in national league tables for academic performance.
Awards and Accolades
- Ofsted Outstanding Rating:
- JHGS has consistently received an Outstanding rating from Ofsted for its academic and pastoral standards.
- Sports Achievements:
- The school is renowned for its success in rugby, cricket, and athletics, often competing at county and national levels.
- Arts Recognition:
- Its music and drama programs have received awards for excellence, with students performing in local and regional events.
- STEM Partnerships:
- JHGS has won accolades for its innovative STEM projects and partnerships with leading organizations like STEM Learning UK and local tech companies.
🏫 John Hampden Grammar School – Contact Information
School Name: John Hampden Grammar School
Type: Selective Grammar School for Boys
Headteacher: Mr. Tracey Hartley
📍 Address:
John Hampden Grammar School
Marlow Hill
High Wycombe
Buckinghamshire
HP11 1SZ
United Kingdom
☎️ Telephone:
+44 (0)1494 529589
📧 Email:
🌐 Website:
📱 Social Media:
-
Twitter/X: @JHGSHW
-
Instagram: @johnhampdengrammarschool
📝 Exam Board: GL Assessment
How to Use ExamTutor 11 Plus Practice Papers with Video Explanations to Achieve High Scores for the John Hampden Grammar School (JHGS) 11+ Entrance Exam
Admission to Year 7 at John Hampden Grammar School (JHGS) is based on performance in the GL Assessment 11+ entrance exam.
To secure a place, students must achieve a high score in the entrance test. ExamTutor’s 11+ Practice Papers with Video Explanations provide a structured and effective way to prepare, ensuring students are fully familiar with the question types and exam format used in the 11+ entrance exam.
How ExamTutor 11+ Practice Papers with Video Explanations Help Students Succeed
1. Mirrors the GL Assessment 11+ Test Format
ExamTutor’s practice papers closely follow the GL Assessment 11+ test format, covering:
📌 English – Reading comprehension, grammar, punctuation, and vocabulary.
📌 Mathematics – Numerical reasoning, arithmetic, and problem-solving.
📌 Verbal Reasoning – Word patterns, logic, and problem-solving.
📌 Non-Verbal Reasoning – Spatial awareness, pattern recognition, and sequences.
✔ By practicing with ExamTutor papers, students become familiar with the structure and content of the John Hampden Grammar School (JHGS) entrance exam, improving confidence and performance.
2. Identify Weak Areas & Improve Performance with a Structured Study Plan
A structured study plan is essential for 11+ success. Our practice papers:
✔ Help identify weaker subjects at the earliest stage.
✔ Allow students to focus on specific question types where they struggle.
✔ Include detailed answer explanations so students understand their mistakes and improve.
📌 Tip: Encourage your child to take regular timed practice tests to build exam stamina and confidence.
3. Boost Confidence with Video Explanations
Some 11+ question types can be challenging for students. Our expert-led video explanations:
🎥 Break down complex questions step by step
🎥 Teach proven problem-solving techniques
🎥 Show shortcuts and strategies to save time in the exam
🎥 Help students reinforce learning and build confidence
How to Use Video Explanations Effectively:
✅ Review incorrect answers with video solutions – Identify and correct mistakes early.
✅ Take notes on key strategies – Record important problem-solving techniques for future reference.
✅ Rewatch explanations for difficult topics – Reinforce learning by revisiting challenging areas.
✔ Video explanations ensure students fully understand concepts rather than just memorising answers.
4. Develop Strong Time Management & Exam Techniques
Success in the 11+ entrance exam isn’t just about knowledge—it’s also about:
✔ Time management – Completing questions quickly and accurately under exam conditions.
✔ Skipping tricky questions – Avoid wasting time on difficult questions and returning to them later.
✔ Eliminating wrong answers – Using logical reasoning to improve accuracy.
📌 Tip: Regular timed practice with ExamTutor tests ensures students develop these key exam skills.
5. Build Confidence Before the Big Day
Confidence is crucial for success in the John Hampden Grammar School (JHGS) 11+ exam. Our practice tests help by:
✔ Simulating real exam conditions – So students know exactly what to expect.
✔ Providing motivation through measurable improvement.
📌 Tip: Encourage your child to review their mistakes using our detailed video explanations to turn weaknesses into strengths.
Why Choose ExamTutor 11+ Practice Papers for John Hampden Grammar School (JHGS) Preparation?
✔ GL Assessment-style practice papers covering all tested subjects.
✔ Video explanations for step-by-step learning.
✔ Used successfully by thousands of students every year.
How to Get Started with ExamTutor Practice Papers
1️⃣ Take a practice test – Identify your child’s strengths and weaknesses.
2️⃣ Create a study plan – Focus on weaker areas while reinforcing strengths.
3️⃣ Practice regularly – Use ExamTutor timed papers to simulate real exam conditions.
4️⃣ Review mistakes using video explanations – Learn from errors and improve.
5️⃣ Track progress – Monitor scores over time to ensure continuous improvement.
📌 Tip: Start preparing at least 6–12 months before the exam to allow enough time for practice and improvement.
John Hampden Grammar School (JHGS) Year 7 is highly competitive, but ExamTutor 11+ Practice Papers with Video Explanations provide a powerful tool to maximise your child’s success.
By mirroring the GL Assessment test format, identifying weak areas, improving time management, and building confidence, our practice tests give students the best chance of securing a high score and gaining admission to John Hampden Grammar School (JHGS).
📌 Start preparing today with ExamTutor and set your child on the path to 11+ success! 🚀
If you’re interested in the typical day of a JHGS student, you can watch this video:
John Hampden Grammar School (JHGS): Year 7 Admissions
John Hampden Grammar School (JHGS) is a highly regarded boys’ grammar school in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire. Admission to Year 7 is determined by performance in the Secondary Transfer Test (11 Plus Exam), administered by Buckinghamshire Council. Here’s an overview of the process:
Eligibility Criteria
- Age Requirement:
- Applicants must be 11 years old by 31st August in the year they start Year 7.
- Residency:
- While JHGS admits students from across Buckinghamshire and surrounding areas, priority is given to those living within the designated catchment area.
- Secondary Transfer Test Qualification:
- Students must achieve a standardised score of 121 or above in the 11 Plus exam to be considered for admission.
The Secondary Transfer Test (11 Plus Exam)
- Test Format:
- Two multiple-choice papers designed by GL Assessment:
- Paper 1: Verbal Reasoning and English.
- Paper 2: Non-Verbal Reasoning and Mathematics.
- Each paper lasts approximately 60 minutes.
- Two multiple-choice papers designed by GL Assessment:
- Scoring:
- Scores are age-standardised to ensure fairness for younger candidates.
- Practice Test:
- A practice test is conducted to familiarise students with the exam format and procedures.
Oversubscription Criteria
If the number of qualified applicants exceeds the school’s Published Admission Number (PAN) for Year 7 (180 students), the following criteria are applied in priority order:
- Looked After and Previously Looked After Children:
- Priority is given to children in care or those adopted from care.
- Catchment Area:
- Applicants living within the school’s designated catchment area.
- Siblings:
- Students with siblings currently attending JHGS.
- Proximity:
- Priority is given to applicants living closest to the school, measured in a straight line.
- Sons of Staff:
- Consideration may be given to sons of staff members who meet specific criteria.
How to Apply for Year 7 at John Hampden Grammar School (JHGS)
John Hampden Grammar School (JHGS) is a popular boys’ grammar school in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, and admission to Year 7 is determined by performance in the Secondary Transfer Test (11 Plus Exam), managed by Buckinghamshire Council. Below is a detailed guide to the application process:
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
- Age Requirement:
- Your child must be 11 years old by 31st August in the year they start Year 7.
- Catchment Area:
- While JHGS accepts students from across Buckinghamshire and surrounding areas, priority is given to those living within the school’s designated catchment area.
- Academic Qualification:
- Students must achieve a standardised score of 121 or above in the Secondary Transfer Test (STT) to be eligible.
Step 2: Register for the Secondary Transfer Test (11 Plus Exam)
- Automatic Registration for Buckinghamshire Primary School Students:
- If your child attends a Buckinghamshire primary school, they will be automatically registered for the Secondary Transfer Test.
- Manual Registration for Out-of-Area Applicants:
- If your child attends a school outside Buckinghamshire, you must register them via the Buckinghamshire Council website.
Step 3: Prepare for the Secondary Transfer Test
- Familiarisation Materials:
- Buckinghamshire Council provides free familiarisation booklets to help students understand the test format and question types.
- Practice Test:
- The practice test will take place in September each year, providing students with a realistic trial of the exam format and conditions.
- Test Date:
- The official Secondary Transfer Test is scheduled for September each year.
- Test Format:
- The exam consists of two multiple-choice papers, provided by GL Assessment:
- Paper 1: Verbal Reasoning and English.
- Paper 2: Non-Verbal Reasoning and Mathematics.
- Each paper lasts approximately 60 minutes.
- The exam consists of two multiple-choice papers, provided by GL Assessment:
Step 4: Submit the Common Application Form (CAF)
- Online Submission:
- Parents must complete and submit the Common Application Form (CAF) via their home local authority’s online portal.
- List Preferences:
- Ensure that John Hampden Grammar School is listed as one of your preferences on the CAF.
- CAF Deadline:
- Submit the form by 31st October 2024.
Step 5: Receive Results and Offers
- Test Results Notification:
- You will receive your child’s Secondary Transfer Test results in October each year.
- National Offer Day:
- Offers for Year 7 places will be sent out on March each year.
Step 6: Appeals Process (If Necessary)
- Appeals for Non-Qualification:
- If your child does not achieve the qualifying score, you can appeal to Buckinghamshire Council, providing evidence of academic ability.
- Appeals for Oversubscription:
- If your child qualifies but is not offered a place due to oversubscription, you may appeal based on specific circumstances or additional evidence.
Oversubscription Criteria
If more students qualify than the Published Admission Number (PAN) of 180 places, the following priority criteria are applied:
- Looked After and Previously Looked After Children:
- Children in care or those adopted from care.
- Catchment Area:
- Priority is given to students living within the designated catchment area of JHGS.
- Siblings:
- Students with siblings currently attending JHGS.
- Proximity:
- Priority is given to students living closest to the school, measured in a straight line.
- Children of Staff Members:
- Consideration may be given to applicants whose parents are staff members at the school.
Special Considerations
- Special Educational Needs (SEN):
- Adjustments can be made to the testing environment or format for students with SEN or disabilities.
- Exceptional Circumstances:
- Parents can inform the admissions team if there are any special circumstances affecting their child’s performance.
