If you’re searching for Grammar Schools in Slough, you’re in the right place.
Slough has four fantastic Grammar Schools, all of which are members of the Slough Consortium of Grammar Schools.
In this article, you’ll find a complete list of Grammar Schools in Slough, as well as everything you need to know about securing a place. From the 11+ exam format to test providers and cut-off marks, here’s the latest expert advice, insights and guidance for parents and students embarking on this important educational journey.
So join us as we explore Grammar Schools in Slough and guide your child’s secondary transition with confidence.
How many Grammar Schools are there in Slough?
Slough, a bustling town and unitary authority, is home to four prestigious grammar schools. These institutions (all renowned for their academic excellence and pastoral care) include Herschel Grammar School, Langley Grammar School, Upton Court Grammar School and St Bernard’s Catholic Grammar School.
All of these schools are members of the Slough Consortium of Grammar Schools. This means they work together and use a common 11 Plus entrance exam and eligibility criteria. So no matter which schools you’re applying to, your child will only have to sit one test.
Here’s a brief introduction to each Grammar School in Slough.
Langley Grammar School
Established in 1956, Langley Grammar School has a rich history of academic excellence and innovation. They describe themselves as an “innovative and forward-thinking school” committed to developing their students into “well-rounded, confident and successful young adults”.
With a strong focus on STEM subjects (as well as the humanities and languages), they prepare students for the challenges of the future. Langley Grammar School has a student population of around 1,200 students from a wide range of backgrounds forming a “friendly and harmonious community”.
- Students: Co-Educational
- Ofsted: Outstanding (last inspected Nov 2021)
- Exam Results: In 2023, 76.8% of GCSE grades were 9-7 with 30% at grade 9. 76.4% of A Level entries were A*-B with 53% A*-A.
- Address: Reddington Drive, Langley, Berkshire, SL3 7QS
Upton Court Grammar School
With the values of unity, curiosity, growth and service – Upton Court Grammar School has remained a beacon of excellence since its establishment in 1988. They inspire their 1,000 students to become successful and engaged global citizens, in an environment where everyone fulfils their academic and personal aspirations.
Upton Court Grammar School prides itself on blending “tradition with a forward-thinking, internationally-minded educational philosophy”. Indeed, the beautiful campus provides a serene and supportive environment for learning and personal growth.
- Students: Co-Educational
- Ofsted: Outstanding (last inspected Nov 2022)
- Exam Results: In 2023 exam results, 67% of GCSE grades were 9-7 with 24% at grade 9. At A Level, 71% were A*-B with 40% A*-A.
- Address: Lascelles Road, Upton, Berkshire, SL3 7PR
St Bernard’s Catholic Grammar School
Founded in 1957, St Bernard’s Catholic Grammar School holds the distinction of being the only co-educational Catholic Grammar School in the country. With these values in mind, they instil a strong sense of morality, compassion and social responsibility in their students.
The school’s buildings and grounds are steeped in history and tradition, fostering a tight-knit community of just under 1,000 students. In the headmaster’s welcome, he champions the school’s “blend of academic challenge, spiritual development and enrichment” with an aim of “not to limit”, but “liberate” each and every child’s true potential.
- Students: Co-Educational
- Ofsted: Outstanding (last inspected Nov 2023)
- Exam Results: In 2023, 76% of GCSE grades were 9-7 with 20% at grade 9. 59% of A Level Grades were A*-B with 30% A*-A.
- Address: 1 Langley Road, Slough, Berkshire, SL3 7AF
Herschel Grammar School
Herschel Grammar School boasts a “warm and vibrant atmosphere built on an ethos of mutual trust, high academic standards and a commitment to nurturing and developing every individual pupil.” Dating back to 1952, the school has a proud heritage of academic achievement and cultural enrichment, providing the best opportunities to ensure “every child achieves their potential”.
With picturesque surroundings and modern facilities, it’s a dynamic learning environment “built on genuine collaboration and partnership between governors, staff, pupils and parents.” The school has a broad curriculum with specialist status in Technology, Maths and Computer Science.
- Students: Co-Educational
- Ofsted: Outstanding (last inspected September 2012)
- Exam Results: In 2023 exam results, 74% of GCSE grades were 9-7. At A Level, 69% of results were A*-B while 41% were A*-A.
- Address: Northampton Avenue, Slough, Berkshire, SL13BW
What Slough schools are 11 Plus?
All the Slough Grammars we’ve listed above use 11 Plus exams for admissions. They are all members of the Slough Consortium, which means they all use the same 11 Plus tests and eligibility criteria.
We’ll cover the specific test format in more detail below, but for a general guide to 11 Plus exams (and how to help your child prepare) don’t miss our comprehensive 11 Plus guide for parents.
The 11 Plus exam is a pivotal moment for students hoping to pursue a grammar school education in Slough. These notoriously challenging exams assess pupils’ critical thinking abilities, problem-solving skills and academic potential – ensuring only the most capable and motivated individuals secure coveted places in these prestigious schools.
Are Grammar Schools difficult to get into?
Securing a Grammar School place for your child is undeniably challenging and competitive. With a limited number of spots and a high volume of applicants vying for entry, the admissions process is rigorous and demanding.
Students hoping to attend Grammar School must excel in their 11 Plus exams, demonstrating proficiency in verbal, non-verbal and numerical reasoning skills. Because of the intense competition, diligent preparation, dedication and perseverance are needed for your child to stand out among their peers.
Factors such as the pass mark, number of applicants, and the overall academic performance of students will influence the difficulty of gaining admission from year to year.
But while the process may be daunting, it rewards students who exhibit academic excellence, resilience and a commitment to learning… and is well worth the effort.
Is Slough 11+ CEM or GL?
For exams taking place in 2024 and 2025 the Slough Consortium of Grammar Schools is working with GL Assessment as their official test provider.
GL Assessment is a UK-based company specialising in educational assessment. Their tests are widely used by schools, educational institutions and educational professionals for various purposes. This includes admissions, progress tracking and identifying areas of strengths and weaknesses.
As well as creating exam questions, GL Assessment also marks and standardises students’ 11 Plus papers.
What is the format of the Slough 11+ exam?
Students sitting 11 Plus exams for Slough Grammar Schools will take two papers.
These papers each last 60 to 65 minutes and contain a mix of questions relating to Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning, English and Maths.
They include:
- Verbal Skills Paper: Combining Verbal Reasoning and English questions
- Non-Verbal Skills Paper: Combining Non-Verbal Reasoning and Maths questions
Your child will face a variety of answer formats, which must be filled in on a separate answer sheet. Papers are marked by a computer (with the process managed by GL Assessment) so children must follow answer instructions carefully.
To understand the paper structure and question types, GL Assessment provides free familiarisation materials. It’s a good idea to use these example materials (alongside other practice papers and mock tests) to help your child prepare.
What is the pass mark for Slough Grammar Schools
There isn’t a single “passing” score that secures entry to Slough Grammar Schools. This changes each year, depending on the difficulty of the exam, competition for available places and the schools’ admissions policies.
Despite this, there is an “eligibility score” that allows your child to be considered for entrance at Slough Grammars.
Based on standardised scores, the eligibility score is 111.
As a rule of thumb, pupils achieving 111 or above will be in the top third of students sitting Slough 11+ exams.
Remember though, achieving this score doesn’t automatically guarantee a place. All four Slough Grammar Schools are regularly oversubscribed, which means other entrance criteria come into play.
You’re more likely to secure a place if:
- You live within the catchment or priority area surrounding the school
- Your child has a sibling already at the school
- Your child is eligible for free school meals (pupil premium)
- A parent has been employed by the school for more than two years
- Your child attends a designated “feeder school” for primary
- Your child is among the top 120 performing pupils on the 11 Plus exam
- Your child is, or was previously a “looked after child” (i.e. in the care of the local authority)
It’s essential parents understand the admissions rules and catchment area of each school. Head to their websites to check these policies, which may change from year to year.
Is Slough considered London?
While Slough is located close to London and is often associated with the Greater London urban area, it is an independent town situated in the ceremonial county of Berkshire in the South East of England.
The Borough of Slough is also separate from London. It’s a unitary authority (centred around the town of Slough) that extends to include Langley and parts of Buckinghamshire.
Despite its geographical proximity to the capital, Slough maintains its distinct identity, culture and administrative jurisdiction separate from London.
If you’re searching for schools in London, explore our guides to the best Grammar Schools, the best secondary schools, and the best private schools in the capital.
We’ve also compiled a complete list of the best Grammar Schools in the UK and Grammar Schools without a catchment area for families who are flexible on location.
Are Grammar Schools really worth it?
The debate surrounding the value of grammar schools continues to evoke impassioned arguments from both proponents and critics.
Advocates of grammar schools tout their track record of academic excellence, rigorous standards and enriched learning environments as strong reasons in their favour.
On the other hand, critics of grammar schools raise concerns about the potential for elitism, social segregation and inequality perpetuated by selective education systems. They argue the inherent exclusivity of grammar schools disadvantages students from poorer backgrounds and undermines principles of inclusive education.
Despite this, there’s no doubt Grammar Schools foster a culture of aspiration, intellectual curiosity and academic achievement among their students. They consistently lead national league tables in terms of results, frequently outdoing their private counterparts.
With a challenging curriculum (going above and beyond national curriculum requirements), specialised resources and tailored support, Grammars empower their lucky students to realise their full academic and personal potential.
So are Grammar Schools really worth it?
This will come down to your circumstances, priorities and beliefs. While they may offer unparalleled academic opportunities, this might not be the best environment for every child.
If you’re unsure whether the 11 Plus is right for your child, explore our exams consultancy services. We can advise on preparation and the best secondary options for your child.
Are you considering Grammar School in Slough for your child?
If you’re thinking about 11 Plus entrance exams, get in touch with our expert team at Achieve Learning.
With a proven track record of securing entrance at the country’s most prestigious schools, we provide 11 Plus tuition (starting from Year 4 and Year 5), mock exams and academic consultancy.
Get in touch today and find out how we can help your child succeed and thrive.
