Dr Challoner's Grammar School 11+

Crucial 11+ info, past 11+ papers and practice 11+ papers for Dr Challoner's Grammar School.

How to get into Dr Challoner's Grammar School

Dr Challoner's Grammar School is a selective secondary school in Buckinghamshire. To get into Dr Challoner's Grammar School children need to pass the school's 11+ entrance test. Here is the step-by-step guide to getting your child into Dr Challoner's Grammar School with all the important information you need to know.

Admission Requirements

Children born between 1st September 2013 and 31st August 2014 are eligible for Year 7 entry in September 2025 (see key dates). The school offers 180 places annually for boys entering Year 7 and operates as a selective grammar school [1].

All applicants must achieve a standardised score of at least 121 in the Buckinghamshire Secondary Transfer Test (STT) to qualify for consideration for a grammar school place. The exam is created by GL Assessment and administered by Buckinghamshire County Council.

  • Complete the Common Application Form (CAF) through the local authority by 31st October 2025 (see key dates)
  • Register for testing between 2nd May and 13th June 2025 (see key dates) if attending a non-Buckinghamshire primary school
  • Complete a Supplementary Information Form (SIF) if applying based on catchment area residence
  • Provide proof of address and birth certificate as required

Catchment Area and Priority

The school prioritises children living in the catchment area which includes Amersham, Chesham, Chalfont St Giles, Chalfont Common, Gerrards Cross, Great Missenden and Prestwood. Families must complete the school's Supplementary Information Form by 30th November 2025 (see key dates) to confirm residency qualification .

All images © Dr Challoner's Grammar School.
All images © Dr Challoner's Grammar School.

The school applies oversubscription criteria when more than 180 qualified children apply. Children are prioritised in the following order: boys who are looked after children or previously looked after children, boys living in the catchment area who receive pupil premium, siblings of current students who live in the catchment area.

  • Up to 12 places are reserved for boys in the catchment area receiving pupil premium or looked after children with scores of 115 or above
  • Further places allocated by distance from school for qualified applicants
  • Contact details available in the school information section

Application Process

Families must follow a structured application process with specific deadlines. Children attending Buckinghamshire primary schools are automatically registered for testing. Others must register separately through Buckinghamshire Council.

The practice test takes place on Tuesday 9th September 2025 followed by the actual Buckinghamshire Secondary Transfer Test (STT) on Thursday 11th September 2025 (see key dates) . Test results are released by email after 4pm on 10th October 2025 (see key dates).

  • Submit school preferences via Common Application Form by 31st October 2025 (see key dates)
  • Complete Supplementary Information Form for catchment area claims
  • Attend allocated test venue on examination day
  • Families cannot choose test time, date or venue as these are allocated automatically
  • Provide completed identification form if testing at grammar school venue

Examination Details

The Secondary Transfer Test consists of two papers with all questions in multiple-choice format. One paper tests verbal skills including comprehension, technical English and verbal reasoning, while the other tests mathematics and non-verbal skills including spatial reasoning.

Each paper lasts approximately 45 minutes with 60 minutes total including introduction and examples. Scores are age-standardised and weighted according to different test sections. Children achieving 121 or above qualify for grammar school consideration .

  • Paper 1: Comprehension, technical English and verbal reasoning
  • Paper 2: Non-verbal reasoning, spatial reasoning and mathematics
  • Practice test available on 9th September 2025 (see key dates)
  • Results marked by GL Assessment with age standardisation

Preparation Guidance

Families should begin preparation well in advance using a structured approach. Education experts recommend regular study sessions of 20-30 minutes for children aged 10-11, using a 'little and often' approach for effective learning.

The practice test is recommended but not compulsory. It helps children become familiar with different question types, test style and using separate answer sheets under test conditions. Families can access free preparation resources through practice papers.

  • Start preparation at least 6-12 months before the exam date
  • Focus on regular practice rather than intensive cramming
  • Ensure children are comfortable working independently for 45-minute periods
  • Use free practice resources for exam familiarisation
  • Consider professional support through qualified tutoring
  • Ensure children have experience working quietly on their own without distractions

Exam Day Preparation

Test centres provide appropriate exam conditions with quiet and organised test rooms to create a fair and equitable environment. Children receive clear instructions and materials to complete the test.

Families should ensure children arrive well-rested and prepared. Normal sounds of a working school may be heard in the background during testing. Children attending grammar school test venues must bring completed identification forms .

  • Arrive at the allocated venue on time with required documentation
  • Bring completed identification form if testing at grammar school venue
  • Ensure children understand they should raise their hand if they need assistance
  • Pack essential items including pencils and erasers as permitted
  • Plan arrival route and parking in advance

Special Considerations and Appeals

Families may apply for a Selection Review if children do not achieve the required score due to exceptional circumstances. The school also maintains a waiting list for qualified applicants when oversubscribed .

Appeals regarding admissions decisions should be directed to the Independent Appeals Panel. The school will not handle admissions queries by telephone as calls are not recorded. All enquiries should be sent to the admissions email address.

  • Submit Selection Review applications for exceptional circumstances
  • Contact the Independent Appeals Panel for admission appeals
  • Email admissions@challoners.org for all enquiries
  • Waiting list operates with re-ranking based on oversubscription criteria

Alternative School Options

Families should consider backup options within Buckinghamshire's education system. The county has 13 grammar schools that all use the same Secondary Transfer Test, forming The Buckinghamshire Grammar Schools (TBGS) consortium.

Non-selective secondary schools in Buckinghamshire provide excellent alternatives for children who do not qualify for grammar school places. Families should research local comprehensive schools and include them in their Common Application Form preferences.

  • Research other Buckinghamshire grammar schools within the TBGS consortium
  • Include non-selective secondary schools as backup preferences
  • Consider independent schools as alternative options
  • Visit school open days to make informed decisions
  • Attend the school's Open Evening on 18th September 2025 (see key dates)

Important Contact Information

For specific admissions guidance and detailed information about Dr Challoner's Grammar School, families should consult the school information section. The school maintains comprehensive admissions policies and frequently asked questions documents.

The school's Admissions Policy and Frequently Asked Questions provide detailed information about the application process. Catchment area maps are available on the school website for families to verify their residential eligibility.

  • Visit the school website for Admissions Policy and detailed guidance
  • Access catchment area maps to verify residential eligibility
  • Review Frequently Asked Questions for common queries
  • Contact the school through official channels for specific advice
  • Attend Open Days for direct interaction with staff and students

[1]Dr Challoner's Grammar School official website

Buckinghamshire Secondary Transfer Test (STT) Information

In order to get into Dr Challoner's Grammar School, children need to pass the Buckinghamshire Secondary Transfer Test (STT). This 11+ test is written by GL Assessment for use by the school's admissions process.

Buckinghamshire Secondary Transfer Test (STT) Subjects & Structure

The Buckinghamshire Secondary Transfer Test (STT) requires children to complete tests in the following subjects:

  • English Comprehension
  • Technical English
  • Verbal Reasoning
  • Key Stage 2 Maths
  • Non-Verbal Reasoning
  • Spatial Reasoning

The Secondary Transfer Test is a crucial assessment for students seeking admission to Dr Challoner's Grammar School. This exam, provided by GL Assessment, evaluates the academic abilities and potential of prospective students through two distinct one-hour papers.

The first paper focuses on verbal skills, assessing the student's proficiency in English comprehension, technical English, and verbal reasoning. These sections aim to gauge the student's ability to understand and analyze written texts, grasp complex language concepts, and apply logical thinking to solve word-based problems.

The second paper concentrates on mathematical and non-verbal skills. This includes Key Stage 2 maths, which tests the student's knowledge and application of essential mathematical concepts. Additionally, non-verbal reasoning and spatial reasoning sections evaluate the student's capacity to identify patterns, solve problems using visual cues, and demonstrate an understanding of shapes and space. Success in this exam is a key factor in securing a place at Dr Challoner's Grammar School.

Other Schools using Buckinghamshire Secondary Transfer Test (STT)

As well as Dr Challoner's Grammar School, several other schools also use Buckinghamshire Secondary Transfer Test (STT). These are:

Buckinghamshire Secondary Transfer Test (STT) Marking Process

The reality of 11+ tests, selective education and academic institutions such as Dr Challoner's Grammar School is that only children with particularly high marks are admitted. Hence why it is important that children perform well in their 11+ papers.

Different schools (and different 11+ tests) have different marking processes. Some tests are marked in person, some remotely, while others utilise computer-based optical recognition technologies for quickly marking multiple-choice answer sheets.

Most 11+ tests are multiple-choice and marked electronically but still some remain that are marked by teachers or examiners.
Most 11+ tests are multiple-choice and marked electronically but still some remain that are marked by teachers or examiners.

Many 11+ tests are age-standardised to ensure younger children are not disadvantaged (i.e. their marks may be moderated depending on the month in which they were born). While creative writing papers can be used as tie-breakers, multiple-choice tests in Maths, Comprehension, Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning normally make up the bulk of a child's marks. The specific details and weightings can vary from year to year.

It's worth remembering that once children's 11+ tests are being marked, the admissions process is completely outside of the parents' control. Hence, parents should not worry themselves about whether their child has got a place!

Buckinghamshire Secondary Transfer Test (STT) Pass Mark

The pass mark for the Buckinghamshire Secondary Transfer Test (STT) changes every year and isn't generally made public knowledge. This is due to the academic strength of the children taking the test varying and how challenging the test ends up being (as well as plenty of other smaller variables).

Stop worrying! Once the 11+ marking has started the admissions process is out of your control.
Stop worrying! Once the 11+ marking has started the admissions process is out of your control.

Hence, as a vague rule-of-thumb, it's recommended that children aim for roughly 75-80% in their practice tests. Whilst this won't guarantee them a place at Dr Challoner's Grammar School, it's a ballpark exam result figure for successful candidates.

Key Dates for the Dr Challoner's Grammar School 11+ Entrance Tests

Here are all the important dates for the 11+ tests (to get into Dr Challoner's Grammar School) as well as other relevant dates.

DateEventCalendar Link
02/05/2025Registration Opens For The Buckinghamshire Secondary Transfer TestAdd Dates to Calendar
13/06/2025Registration Closes For The Buckinghamshire Secondary Transfer Test
09/09/2025Buckinghamshire Practice Test
11/09/2025Buckinghamshire Secondary Transfer Test
Early OctoberParents Receive Results From The Buckinghamshire Secondary Transfer Test
Late OctoberSecondary School Common Application Deadline
02/03/2026National School Offers Day

Although the utmost care has been taken to gather these dates, parents should treat them as a guide and check with Dr Challoner's Grammar School as they may well change.

11+ Tutor for Dr Challoner's Grammar School

As the Buckinghamshire Secondary Transfer Test (STT) entrance process is particularly gruelling, we would highly recommend using an 11+ private tutor.

Why use a private 11+ tutor?

Personal tutors have the experience and expertise to help children pass their 11+ exams. They know the requirements of the GL Assessment 11+ tests inside-out and can provide tailored support to give children the best possible chance of success. It's also important to bear in mind that plenty of other children will be using private tutors too.

11+ tutors don't need to be face-to-face, plenty of children use online 11+ tutors.

11+ tutors help ensure preparation work gets done!
11+ tutors help ensure preparation work gets done!

11+ tutors can also provide regular progress reports and feedback, helping parents to monitor their child's progress and make any necessary adjustments to their preparation.

Most importantly, using an 11+ tutor helps ensure that the preparation work gets done!

Private 11+ Tutors for the Dr Challoner's Grammar School 11+ Tests

We have a range of private tutors who specialise in preparing children for the Dr Challoner's Grammar School 11+ entrance tests. Please click here to be put in touch with a range of excellent 11+ private tutors from our friends at exams.courses.

11+ Past Papers for Dr Challoner's Grammar School

Unfortunately, Dr Challoner's Grammar School has not made any of their 11+ past papers publicly available. However, you can use However, you can use 11+ practice papers from other exam boards (such as GL Assessment, CEM and CSSE) to help your child prepare.

11+ Practice Papers for Dr Challoner's Grammar School

Here are some superb free 11+ practice papers that children can download and use to help prepare for the Buckinghamshire Secondary Transfer Test (STT) Ensure you double-check with Dr Challoner's Grammar School which subjects and topics your child's 11+ tests are in to ensure you prepare for the right tests.

This is just a sample of our extensive collection of 11+ practice papers. Please click here to see the full collection.

11+ Practice Papers for Dr Challoner's Grammar School by Bond

These Free GL 11+ Practice Papers were published by Bond and cover and cover all the main 11+ subjects: English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning. As such they are very helpful for children hoping to pass the Buckinghamshire Secondary Transfer Test (STT) to get into Dr Challoner's Grammar School.

Exam BoardSubjectQuestion BookletAnswers
GL AssessmentEnglish
GL AssessmentMaths
GL AssessmentNon-Verbal Reasoning
GL AssessmentVerbal Reasoning
GL AssessmentMixed

11+ Practice Papers for Dr Challoner's Grammar School by GL Assessment

These Free GL 11+ Practice Papers were published by GL Assessment themselves. As with the Bond papers, they cover all the main 11+ subjects: English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning. They remain useful and we encourage parents to download and use them with their children to help them get into Dr Challoner's Grammar School.

Exam BoardSubjectAnswer SheetQuestion BookletAnswers
GL AssessmentEnglish
GL AssessmentMaths
GL AssessmentNon-Verbal Reasoning
GL AssessmentVerbal Reasoning
GL AssessmentMixed

11+ Practice Papers for Dr Challoner's Grammar School by Exam Ninja

These Free 11+ Practice Tests by Exam Ninja are extremely useful. They are straight-forward 10-question tests in Maths and English, following the same GL Assessment style (and multiple-choice format) as the Buckinghamshire Secondary Transfer Test (STT).

Exam BoardSubjectQuestion BookletAnswers
GL AssessmentMaths
GL AssessmentEnglish

11+ Practice Papers for Dr Challoner's Grammar School by Owl Tutors

These Free 11+ Practice Papers were published by Owl Tutors. These too are written in a GL Assessment style and make useful practice for children hoping to get into Dr Challoner's Grammar School.

Exam BoardSubjectQuestion BookletAnswers
GL AssessmentEnglish
GL AssessmentWriting
GL AssessmentMaths
GL AssessmentVerbal Reasoning

11+ Practice Papers for Dr Challoner's Grammar School by CGP

These Free 11+ Practice Papers were published by CGP and we thank them for granting us permission to distribute them. As with the Bond, GL Assessment and Exam Ninja papers, they're written for the GL Assessment style, in multiple-choice format and are helpful for children hoping to pass their 11+ tests and get into Dr Challoner's Grammar School.

Exam BoardSubjectAnswer SheetQuestion BookletAnswers
GL AssessmentMaths
GL AssessmentEnglish
GL AssessmentVerbal Reasoning
GL AssessmentNon-Verbal Reasoning

These Free CEM 11+ Practice Papers were published by CGP and we thank them for granting us permission to distribute them. If Dr Challoner's Grammar School ever used them then they don't anymore as grammar schools no longer use CEM for any of their 11+ entrance tests. However, as a general practice tool these 11+ tests remain useful.

Exam BoardSubjectAnswer SheetQuestion BookletAnswers
CEMMaths
CEMVerbal Reasoning
CEMNon-Verbal Reasoning

11+ Practice Papers for Dr Challoner's Grammar School by 11+ For You

These Free 11+ Practice Papers were published some time ago by "11+ For You".

Exam BoardSubjectQuestion BookletAnswers
GL AssessmentVerbal Reasoning

11+ Practice Papers for Dr Challoner's Grammar School by Examberry

These Free 11+ Practice Papers were published some time ago by "Examberry".

Exam BoardSubjectAnswer SheetQuestion BookletAnswers
GL AssessmentNon-Verbal Reasoning

11+ Practice Papers for Dr Challoner's Grammar School by Independent Junction

These Free 11+ Practice Papers were published some time ago by Independent Junction.

Exam BoardSubjectQuestion BookletAnswers
GL AssessmentVerbal Reasoning

11+ Practice Papers for Dr Challoner's Grammar School by IPS

These Free 11+ Practice Papers were published some time ago by IPS (Internet Primary School Ltd).

Exam BoardSubjectAnswer SheetQuestion BookletAnswers
GL AssessmentVerbal Reasoning
GL AssessmentMaths

11+ Practice Papers for Dr Challoner's Grammar School by Schofield & Sims

These 11+ practice papers were published by Schofield & Sims, a large UK educational publisher.

Exam BoardSubjectQuestion BookletAnswers
GL AssessmentVerbal Reasoning
GL AssessmentMaths

School Information

Below you will find further information about Dr Challoner's Grammar School together with their admissions contact details.

Dr Challoner's Grammar School is a boys-only grammar school.
Dr Challoner's Grammar School is a boys-only grammar school.
Address
Dr Challoner's Grammar School,
Chesham Road,
Amersham,
Buckinghamshire
HP6 5HA
School Website
Telephone01494787500
Email Addressadmin@challoners.org
GenderBoys only
Total Year 7 Places180
Total Pupils (Girls/Boys)1368 (89 Girls / 1279 Boys)
Headteacher Mr David Atkinson

Dr Challoner's Grammar School is a boys only school. It is also an academy, meaning the school is run independently by a trust or sponsor and is directly funded by the central government (not the local authority).

In total 1,368 pupils attend Dr Challoner's Grammar School and it's led by the Headteacher, Mr David Atkinson.

Dr Challoner's Grammar School Location

Below you will find a map showing the school's location:

Ofsted Information

Dr Challoner's Grammar School was last inspected by Ofsted on 05/11/2019 and the inspection only lasted one day. Ofsted published their report on 28/02/2020, declaring that the school was 'Outstanding'. This information is summarised in the table below along with a link to the full report.

Dr Challoner's Grammar School obtained <strong>Outstanding</strong> in their last Ofsted inspection in 2019.
Dr Challoner's Grammar School obtained Outstanding in their last Ofsted inspection in 2019.

Last Ofsted Report Data

Date InspectedInspection Duration (Days)Reporting DateRatingFull Report
05/11/2019128/02/2020OutstandingFull Report

Ofsted Report Summary

Dr Challoner's Grammar School was inspected by Ofsted on 5 November 2019 and received an Outstanding rating in all areas. The school demonstrated exceptional quality of education, with students consistently achieving high academic standards. The inspection also highlighted the outstanding behaviour and attitudes of the students, who displayed a positive and respectful approach to learning.

The school's personal development provision was deemed outstanding, with a wide range of opportunities for students to develop their skills, interests, and character. The leadership and management of the school were also rated as outstanding, with a clear vision and effective strategies in place to ensure continuous improvement.

Furthermore, the sixth form provision at Dr Challoner's Grammar School was found to be outstanding, with students receiving high-quality teaching, support, and guidance to help them achieve their academic and personal goals.

GCSE & A-Level Subjects

Below you will find a complete list of GCSE and A-Level subjects offered to pupils at Dr Challoner's Grammar School for the 2022-23 academic year.

GCSE Subjects Offered
  • English Language (184 pupils)
  • Mathematics (184 pupils)
  • Chemistry (183 pupils)
  • English Literature (183 pupils)
  • Physics (183 pupils)
  • Biology (182 pupils)
  • Geography (114 pupils)
  • History (108 pupils)
  • Spanish (75 pupils)
  • Electronics (70 pupils)
  • French (61 pupils)
  • Physical Education/Sports Studies (61 pupils)
  • Religious Studies (56 pupils)
  • German (52 pupils)
  • Computer Studies/Computing (41 pupils)
  • Drama & Theatre Studies (26 pupils)
  • Art & Design (Graphics) (22 pupils)
  • Art & Design (Fine Art) (21 pupils)
  • Music (12 pupils)
A-Level Subjects Offered
  • Mathematics (163 pupils)
  • Physics (75 pupils)
  • Chemistry (65 pupils)
  • Biology (59 pupils)
  • Economics (54 pupils)
  • Mathematics (Further) (46 pupils)
  • Geography (40 pupils)
  • Government and Politics (30 pupils)
  • History (30 pupils)
  • English Literature (23 pupils)
  • Religious Studies (23 pupils)
  • Computer Studies / Computing (19 pupils)
  • Business Studies:Single (12 pupils)
  • Electronics (11 pupils)
  • Spanish (9 pupils)
  • Art and Design (Fine Art) (6 pupils)
  • Drama and Theatre Studies (6 pupils)
  • French (6 pupils)
  • German (6 pupils)

GCSE & A-Level Performance

Below are the individual GCSE and A-Level performance tables for Dr Challoner's Grammar School per subject. Note that this may include children taking GCSEs early (e.g. taking a language GCSE in Year 10) or indeed a child in Year 12 retaking a GCSE.

GCSE Results Information (2022-23)

SubjectTotal Pupils Grades Achieved
U123456789
Art & Design (Fine Art)21----144633
Art & Design (Graphics)22---1443523
Biology182----5620384370
Chemistry183---151124363868
Computer Studies/Computing41-----1161419
Electronics70-----31202323
English Language184----41444453739
English Literature183----21838493937
French61---4366141216
Geography114-----514284126
German522--16961567
History108---1156293234
Mathematics184-----614275482
Music12------2433
Physics183----31119334275
Religious Studies56------4112318
Spanish756--2912812818
Drama & Theatre Studies26----169541
Physical Education/Sports Studies61---12413111614

A-Level Results Information (2022-23)

SubjectTotal Pupils Grades Achieved
UEDCBAA*
Art and Design (Fine Art)6--11112
Biology59--5392220
Business Studies:Single12---3621
Chemistry65-235142714
Computer Studies / Computing19--32455
Drama and Theatre Studies6-1-3-11
Economics54---5161617
Electronics11----227
English Literature23----8312
French6---1113
Geography40--191875
German6-----42
Government and Politics30-1-37145
History30---461010
Mathematics163-41010256252
Mathematics (Further)46--2421028
Physics75-251381827
Religious Studies23---4856
Spanish9----432

FAQ

Is Dr Challoner's Grammar School hard to get into?

Yes, Dr Challoner's Grammar School is hard to get into! Children need to pass their challenging 11+ entrance test (with a high pass mark) and there's tough competition with many other children trying to get a place for Year 7.

Is Dr Challoner's Grammar School a private school?

No, Dr Challoner's Grammar School is one of the few remaining academically selective, state-funded grammar schools left in England.

Is Dr Challoner's Grammar School free?

Yes, Dr Challoner's Grammar School is free, there are no school fees. Thus, sending your child to Dr Challoner's Grammar School won't cost you any money.

How do I get my child into Dr Challoner's Grammar School?

You need to apply to take the school's 11+ test. Contact Dr Challoner's Grammar School for how up to date information on how to apply (it may be automatic or it may require some forms to be filled in). More information on their 11+ entrance test can be found here.

Is Dr Challoner's Grammar School a boys-only school?

Yes, Dr Challoner's Grammar School is a boys-only school.

Success!

We have sent %%email%% a confirmation email.

Check your Emails

You will receive the email within 2 minutes.
Open it and click on the confirmation link to enable access.

Not received the email?

Check your Spam/Junk folder
...it could have fallen in there by accident!