The Royal Grammar School High Wycombe (RGSHW): 11+ Practice Papers with Video Explanations
The Royal Grammar School High Wycombe (RGSHW) is one of the most prestigious grammar schools in the UK, steeped in a rich history dating back several centuries. Known for its academic excellence, extensive facilities, and holistic approach to education, RGSHW remains a cornerstone of elite secondary education in Buckinghamshire. This article provides an overview of the school’s history, pupil demographics, modern facilities, and notable awards that contribute to its stellar reputation.
History of RGSHW
Founding and Early Development
The Royal Grammar School High Wycombe was founded in 1562 by a Royal Charter from Queen Elizabeth I. Initially established to provide a classical education to boys in High Wycombe and the surrounding areas, the school has evolved into a centre of academic excellence over the past 450 years.
Originally a small school with just a handful of students, it grew steadily through the centuries. In the 20th century, RGSHW expanded significantly, becoming a prominent institution in Buckinghamshire for bright young minds. The school’s royal patronage and historic legacy make it one of the oldest continually operating grammar schools in England.
Key Historical Milestones
- 1562: Foundation by Royal Charter.
- 1875: The school moved to its current location on Amersham Hill.
- 1944: RGSHW became a selective grammar school under the Education Act.
- 2007: The school attained Academy status, allowing it greater independence in curriculum design and finances.
- 2020s: Continued focus on academic excellence, extracurricular achievements, and state-of-the-art facilities.
Pupil Numbers and Demographics
Student Enrolment
RGSHW currently caters to approximately 1,400 boys aged between 11 and 18. Admission to the school is highly competitive, with students required to pass the 11+ entrance exam to secure a place.
The school draws students from across Buckinghamshire and beyond, with a reputation for nurturing gifted and talented individuals. The Sixth Form, which includes boys from other schools, has over 400 students, making it one of the largest grammar school Sixth Forms in the region.
Diversity and Inclusivity
While the school historically catered to local students, it now embraces diversity, welcoming students from various cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. This inclusivity fosters a vibrant and dynamic learning environment.
Facilities at RGSHW
RGSHW boasts state-of-the-art facilities designed to support both academic and extracurricular excellence. Over the years, significant investment has been made to upgrade and expand the campus.
Key Facilities
- Academic Buildings: Modern science labs, IT suites, and subject-specific classrooms equipped with cutting-edge technology.
- Sports Facilities:
- An all-weather Astroturf pitch.
- Rugby, cricket, and football pitches.
- A modern sports hall and fitness centre.
- Performing Arts Centre: A fully equipped theatre and rehearsal spaces for music, drama, and other creative pursuits.
- Library and Learning Resources Centre: An extensive library with thousands of books, journals, and digital resources.
- Boarding Facilities: RGSHW is one of the few state grammar schools in the UK offering boarding, with accommodation for around 70 students.
Sustainability Initiatives
RGSHW has also embraced sustainability, implementing eco-friendly projects such as solar panels and energy-efficient systems across the campus.
Notable Achievements and Awards
RGSHW has consistently been recognised for its academic excellence and contributions to holistic education.
Academic Performance
- RGSHW ranks among the top grammar schools in the UK, with students achieving outstanding results in GCSEs and A-levels.
- Many students secure places at leading universities, including Oxford, Cambridge, and the Russell Group.
Recent Awards
- Ofsted Rating: Rated “Outstanding” in all categories.
- Sporting Accolades: Consistent success in national rugby and cricket championships.
- Eco-School Status: Recognised for its sustainability efforts.
🏫 The Royal Grammar School, High Wycombe – Contact Information
School Name: The Royal Grammar School (RGSHW)
Type: Selective Grammar School for Boys (with co-ed Sixth Form boarding)
📍 Address:
Royal Grammar School
Amersham Road
High Wycombe
Buckinghamshire
HP13 6QT
United Kingdom
☎️ Telephone:
+44 (0)1494 524955
📧 Email:
🌐 Website:
📱 Social Media:
-
Twitter/X: @RGSHW
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Facebook: Royal Grammar School High Wycombe
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Instagram: @rgshwofficial
📝 Exam Board: GL Assessment
How to Use ExamTutor 11 Plus Practice Papers with Video Explanations to Achieve High Scores for the Royal Grammar School High Wycombe (RGSHW) 11+ Entrance Exam
Admission to Year 7 at Royal Grammar School High Wycombe (RGSHW) 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 Royal Grammar School High Wycombe (RGSHW) 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 Royal Grammar School High Wycombe (RGSHW) 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 Royal Grammar School High Wycombe (RGSHW) 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.
Royal Grammar School High Wycombe (RGSHW) 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 Royal Grammar School High Wycombe (RGSHW).
📌 Start preparing today with ExamTutor and set your child on the path to 11+ success! 🚀
To gain a deeper insight into the school, you can check out this video:
Admissions
he Royal Grammar School High Wycombe (RGSHW) is one of the most sought-after grammar schools in Buckinghamshire, renowned for its academic excellence and rich heritage. Admission to Year 7 is highly competitive, as the school attracts applications from families seeking a top-tier education for their children. This article provides an in-depth guide to the Year 7 admissions process at RGSHW, covering the eligibility criteria, entrance exams, key deadlines, and tips for preparation.
Overview of Year 7 Admissions at RGSHW
Year 7 admissions are designed for boys aged 11+, who demonstrate academic aptitude and a passion for learning. RGSHW follows a selective admissions policy, which is based primarily on performance in the 11+ entrance examination administered by Buckinghamshire Council.
Key Points About Admissions
- Type of School: Selective grammar school for boys.
- Year of Entry: Year 7 (students aged 11–12).
- Admissions Authority: The Buckinghamshire Grammar Schools (TBGS).
- Entry Criteria: Academic performance on the 11+ test.
Eligibility Criteria
Age Criteria
Boys must be aged 11 on or before 31st August of the year they start Year 7.
Residency
RGSHW gives preference to students living within its catchment area. While boys from outside the area can still apply, they are less likely to secure a place if the school is oversubscribed.
Catchment Area
The school primarily admits students residing in High Wycombe and the surrounding towns. To check if your address is within the catchment area, use the Catchment Area Checker on Buckinghamshire Council’s website.
The 11+ Entrance Exam
The 11+ is the primary selection tool used for admission to RGSHW. It is designed to assess a student’s aptitude in verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, and mathematics.
Test Provider
The 11+ test for RGSHW is administered by GL Assessment, a leading provider of cognitive ability testing.
Structure of the Exam
The test comprises two multiple-choice papers:
- Verbal Reasoning and English (comprehension, vocabulary, and reasoning).
- Mathematics and Non-Verbal Reasoning (problem-solving, patterns, and logic).
Each paper lasts approximately 45 minutes, and both are taken on the same day.
Passing Standard
The qualifying score for the 11+ exam is 121. However, achieving this score does not guarantee admission, as places are offered based on ranked scores until the school’s Year 7 places are filled.
Admission Priorities
When RGSHW is oversubscribed, the following priorities are used to allocate places:
- Boys who are Looked After or Previously Looked After Children (LAC).
- Boys living in the catchment area.
- Boys who qualify for Pupil Premium and reside within the catchment area.
- Siblings of current RGSHW students.
- Remaining applicants ranked by their 11+ scores.
It’s worth noting that the Pupil Premium Scheme offers opportunities for boys from disadvantaged backgrounds, giving them priority under certain conditions.
Parents should ensure they register their child for the test during the registration window, as late applications are rarely accepted.
You can view school location on the map below:
How to Apply for 11 Plus (11+) Entry to The Royal Grammar School (RGSHW)
The Royal Grammar School High Wycombe (RGSHW) is a prestigious selective grammar school for boys in Buckinghamshire, known for its exceptional academic results and rich history. Admission to Year 7 at RGSHW is highly competitive and requires careful navigation of the application process, which includes registering for the 11+ exam and adhering to strict timelines.
This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process for applying to RGSHW for Year 7 admission, including details on the 11+ test, key deadlines, and important tips to increase your chances of success.
Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, ensure that your child meets the following criteria:
- Age Requirements:
Boys must be aged 11 on or before 31st August in the year of entry. For example, for entry in September 2025, boys must have been born between 1st September 2013 and 31st August 2014. - Catchment Area:
While boys from outside the catchment area may apply, priority is given to those who live within the school’s designated catchment area. You can check your address against the RGSHW catchment area map via the Buckinghamshire Council website. - Academic Selection:
Admission is based on performance in the 11+ entrance examination, administered by Buckinghamshire Grammar Schools.
Step 1: Register for the 11+ Entrance Exam
All boys applying to RGSHW must take the 11+ entrance exam, which is organised by The Buckinghamshire Grammar Schools (TBGS).
- How to Register:
Parents must register their child for the 11+ test online via the Buckinghamshire Grammar Schools website. Registration typically opens in May and closes in June of the year preceding entry. - Important Notes:
- Boys attending Buckinghamshire primary schools are automatically registered for the test, but parents should confirm this with their child’s school.
- Boys attending schools outside Buckinghamshire must register independently.
Step 2: Take the 11+ Exam
The 11+ test is the primary selection tool used for admission to RGSHW. It is designed to assess a boy’s aptitude in verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, and mathematics.
Key Details About the 11+ Test:
- Provider: The test is set by GL Assessment, a leading provider of cognitive ability tests.
- Format:
- Paper 1: Verbal reasoning and English.
- Paper 2: Mathematics and non-verbal reasoning.
- Scoring: The qualifying score is 121, but achieving this does not guarantee admission.
Practice Test:
- A practice test is administered a few days before the actual exam to familiarise boys with the format and question types.
Tips for Success:
- Start Early: Begin preparing at least 12 months before the test.
- Practice Papers: Use official GL Assessment practice papers.
- Mock Exams: Consider enrolling your child in mock 11+ tests to build confidence.
- Time Management: Practice answering questions under timed conditions.
Step 3: Submit Your Secondary School Application
Once your child has taken the 11+ exam, you will need to submit the Common Application Form (CAF) through your local council to indicate your school preferences.
- Deadline: The CAF must be submitted by end of October each year.
- How to Submit:
- If you live in Buckinghamshire, submit the form through Buckinghamshire Council’s online portal.
- If you live outside Buckinghamshire, submit the CAF to your local council and include RGSHW as one of your preferences.
- Preference Ranking: RGSHW should be listed as your first choice if it is your preferred school.
Step 4: Results and Offers
- 11+ Results:
- Results are usually sent out in mid-October. You will be informed whether your child has achieved the qualifying score of 121 or higher.
- National Offer Day:
- Around 1st March each year, parents will receive an email or letter from their local council indicating whether their child has been offered a place at RGSHW.
- Accepting the Offer:
- If your child is offered a place, you must formally accept it by the specified deadline (usually mid-March).
- Waiting List:
- If your child is not initially offered a place but meets the qualifying score, they may be placed on a waiting list.
Step 5: Appeals (If Necessary)
If your child is not offered a place at RGSHW, you have the right to appeal the decision. The appeals process involves presenting your case to an independent panel, explaining why your child should be offered a place.
- Appeals must be lodged within the deadline specified in the offer letter.
- While appeals are rarely successful, strong evidence (e.g., mitigating circumstances or exceptional academic potential) may improve your chances.
Special Considerations for Year 7 Admissions
RGSHW aims to provide fair opportunities for all applicants, including those with special circumstances.
- Pupil Premium Priority:
Boys who qualify for Pupil Premium funding and live within the catchment area receive priority in the admissions process. - Special Educational Needs (SEN):
Boys with recognised SEN are entitled to reasonable adjustments during the 11+ exam. Parents should notify the admissions team when registering for the test. - Looked-After Children (LAC):
Boys who are looked-after or previously looked-after children are given top priority for admission.
