As anyone who already lives in Milton Keynes knows, it’s a fantastic place to call home. With its mix of modern amenities, green spaces and a lively community vibe, families love this “New City”.
But what about secondary school choices? While there aren’t any Grammar Schools in Milton Keynes, you’ll find some great options in nearby counties.
In this blog, we’ll explore Grammar Schools in nearby Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, Northamptonshire and Warwickshire – all within an hour’s drive from Milton Keynes. We’ll also explore the top comprehensive and private schools in Milton Keynes, so you have all the information you need to make the best choice for your child’s education.
In this article:
Does Milton Keynes have Grammar Schools? Your Secondary Options
How many Grammar Schools are there in Milton Keynes?
Unfortunately, Milton Keynes doesn’t have any Grammar Schools. However, families in the area can apply to one of the many excellent Grammars in nearby Buckinghamshire and Warwickshire. If you’re living in Milton Keynes, you’ll be outside the priority catchment area, but with a strong 11 Plus performance, your child still has a chance of securing a place.
Before we look at Grammar Schools near Milton Keynes, let’s explain how school admissions policies and catchment areas work.
Understanding Catchment Areas: What You Need to Know
When applying to Grammar Schools, parents living outside the priority catchment area should be aware of several factors. The catchment area gives preference to children living nearby, which means students from Milton Keynes may have to score a higher mark in the 11 Plus to secure a spot.
Here are the main things to keep in mind:
- Distance criteria: Most Grammar Schools prioritise local children. If you live outside the catchment area, your child may still be admitted based on distance criteria, but it’s essential to know how far previous years’ admissions extended.
- Appeals: If your child passes the 11 Plus but doesn’t get an offer, it’s worth exploring the appeal process. Many parents have successfully appealed their child’s case, especially if they demonstrate strong academic potential.
- Transport options: Some families opt for private bus services that transport students from Milton Keynes to nearby schools. Researching these options can ease the daily commute and provide a reliable way for your child to get to school.
- Local comprehensive schools: While Grammar Schools offer unique academic advantages, many comprehensive schools in Milton Keynes also provide excellent education. We’ll cover state-funded schools and private schools later in this article.
Does Buckinghamshire have Grammar Schools?
Buckinghamshire has thirteen excellent Grammar Schools. Notable for their competitive nature, Buckinghamshire Grammars boast high exam results and a range of extracurricular opportunities.
The Buckinghamshire Grammars closest to Milton Keynes are:
Aylesbury Grammar School
Approx 27 km from Milton Keynes.
Founded in 1598, Aylesbury Grammar School has a strong tradition of academic achievement and offers a wide variety of extracurricular activities. The school focuses on “inspiring and nurturing” young people and fostering a well-rounded education for its students.
Aylesbury High School
Approx 27 km from Milton Keynes.
This girls’ school prides itself on empowering young women through education. With a strong emphasis on STEM subjects, Aylesbury High School encourages students to excel academically while developing leadership skills.
Royal Latin School
Approximately 27 km from Milton Keynes.
A mixed Grammar School in Buckingham, the Royal Latin School combines a rich history with modern educational practices. They foster happy pupils with a deep sense of belonging. Founded in 1423, it offers a broad curriculum and plenty of extracurricular clubs and societies for over 1,300 students.
Henry Floyd Grammar School
Approximately 30 km from Milton Keynes.
Established in 1963, Henry Floyd Grammar School has gained recognition for its supportive environment and strong academic record. Named after a Lord Lieutenant of Buckinghamshire, this innovative co-ed Grammar helps students achieve their full potential.
Interested in Buckinghamshire Grammar Schools? Explore our in-depth guide, including 11 Plus cut-off scores and application deadlines.
Does Warwickshire have Grammar Schools?
Warwickshire boasts six excellent grammar schools, particularly in Rugby and Stratford-upon-Avon. Known for their academic achievements, rich history and supportive environments, these schools offer a diverse curriculum that prepares students for future success.
While this Midlands county is further from Milton Keynes, Rugby Grammar Schools are still within an hour’s drive. Here are your top choices.
Rugby High School for Girls
Approx 40 km from Milton Keynes.
Established in 1567, Rugby High School has a rich history and offers a challenging yet supportive academic environment. Its commitment to developing well-rounded individuals (with the motto “we set heights in our heart”) makes it a popular choice for families. The school is girls-only, but accepts boys for sixth form.
Lawrence Sheriff School
Approx 40 km from Milton Keynes.
This boys’ Grammar has a long tradition of excellence, offering a wide range of subjects in an atmosphere where “students know they matter” and “their voice is heard”. Indeed, Lawrence Sheriff focuses on creating a supportive environment where students thrive academically and personally.
Like other Grammar Schools in the country, a good score in the 11 Plus is the entry point for Warwickshire Gammars, ensuring students are academically equipped for the challenges ahead. For more information on the process as well as key dates and deadlines, head to the county council’s website.
If you’re considering the West Midlands, here’s your complete guide to Grammar Schools in Birmingham.
Does Bedfordshire have Grammar Schools?
Unfortunately, Bedfordshire doesn’t have any Grammar Schools. However, there are some excellent private schools, providing high-quality education within a reasonable distance of Milton Keynes.
One standout option is Bedford School, an independent boys’ school about 17 kilometres from Milton Keynes. It boasts a historic campus and a strong academic reputation, offering a well-rounded education with small class-sizes and plenty of extracurricular activities.
For girls, Bedford Girls’ School is another fantastic option. It offers an impressive academic curriculum alongside a similarly broad range of extracurricular opportunities. Known for fostering independence and confidence in young women, the school is also around 17 km from Milton Keynes.
If you’re looking for co-educational options, Kimbolton School (in Cambridgeshire, just over 30 kilometres from Milton Keynes) is worth considering. This stunning private school offers excellent pastoral care and flexi-boarding options.
Does Northamptonshire have Grammar Schools?
Northamptonshire doesn’t have any Grammar Schools. But again, there are some excellent independent options.
These schools include Northampton School for Boys and Northampton School for Girls. Both schools empower their students to excel both academically and personally. They boast fantastic sports provision as well as debating, dance, music, drama and arts clubs (and plenty more besides).
Around 30 kilometres from Milton Keynes, they’re a popular choice for families in the area.
If you’re considering independent schools further afield, don’t miss our guides to the top private schools in London and the UK, as well as the country’s leading boarding schools.
Secondary Schools in Milton Keynes: Exploring Your Options
While it’s true that Milton Keynes doesn’t have Grammar Schools, there are still some fantastic educational options to consider for your child. The town boasts a variety of secondary schools, offering a high-quality education and supportive environments.
Which school is best in Milton Keynes?
When it comes to league tables, a few Milton Keynes schools consistently lead the pack. This includes Oakgrove School, The Hazeley Academy and The Webber Independent School.
All these schools are celebrated for their dedicated teaching staff, fantastic extracurricular activities and strong school communities. They provide a nurturing environment where students thrive academically and socially, making them all excellent choices for families in the area.
Here are the top ten schools in Milton Keynes, as ranked by the School Guide.
- The Webber Independent School
- Oakgrove School
- The Hazeley Academy
- Denbigh School
- Ousedale School
- Shenley Brook End School
- Lord Grey Academy
- The Radcliffe School
- St Paul’s Catholic School
- Stantonbury School
Although it just missed our top ten list, MK Academy is one of the top-performing secondary schools, with a great reputation among parents and students alike. Known for its focus on developing well-rounded individuals, MK Academy emphasises both academic excellence and personal development.
How many secondary schools are in Milton Keynes?
Milton Keynes is home to 27 secondary schools, including a mix of state-funded schools, academies and independent institutions. This variety ensures parents can find a suitable fit for their child’s needs – whether that’s a strong academic focus, pastoral support, arts, drama or sports provision.
Remember, homeschooling is also an option in the UK. For more information on homeschooling, including the pros, cons, and how to take your child out of school, read our detailed homeschooling guide.
How much does private school cost in Milton Keynes?
Private school fees in Milton Keynes vary depending on the institution and the level of education. Generally though, expect to pay up to £16,000 per year.
Fees tend to be lowest at primary. They increase as your child moves through their secondary education. For instance, at The Webber Independent School, fees are £11,700 per year for reception. This rises to £16,170 for Years 7-9 and £16,350 for Years 10 and 11.
As well as these “basic” fees, extra costs for uniforms, books and extracurricular activities add up. So it’s essential to consider the full financial commitment when exploring private schooling options. Many private schools offer scholarships and financial aid to help with some of these costs, so it’s worth talking with the school.
Here are the private schools in Milton Keynes with links to their fees.
- Akeley Wood Junior School (Co-ed, 12 months to 18 years)
- Broughton Manor Preparatory School (Co-ed, 2 months to 11 years)
- Milton Keynes Preparatory School (Co-ed, 2 months to 11 years)
- Swanbourne House School (Co-ed, 3 to 13 years)
- The Webber Independent School (Co-ed, 6 months to 16 years)
- Thornton College (Girls, 3 to 18 years)
Is Milton Keynes a good place to live with kids?
If you’re considering a move to Milton Keynes, it’s a fantastic choice for families. The town is known for its family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of children’s activities.
The extensive network of parks is perfect for outdoor adventures. Willen Lake offers activities like paddle boating and cycling along scenic trails, while Ouzel Valley Park features playgrounds ideal for family picnics. For even more fun, the Milton Keynes Aquatic Centre provides excellent swimming facilities for kids.
Attractions abound, too. To give just a few examples, the MK Gallery hosts family-friendly exhibitions and workshops, while Bletchley Park has beautiful grounds for family walks. The MK Theatre also features regular family shows and pantomimes.
As so many young families call Milton Keynes home, there’s a great community atmosphere. You’ll find regular “story times” and educational events at the Central Library, as well as family-friendly festivals and events like the MK Food Festival and the Christmas Lights switch-on.
We’ve also seen how Milton Keynes boasts excellent state-funded and private schools, as well as outstanding Grammars within an hour’s drive. So the only question remains, when’s the big move?
Thinking about secondary schools near Milton Keynes?
Deciding on the best school for your child can feel like a big task, but you’re not alone in this journey! With so many options, from Grammars to comprehensives, private and even boarding schools, we’ll help you navigate the world of secondary education.
If you’re looking for personalised guidance and expert academic tuition (including Year 4 and Year 5 11+ preparation and mock exams), we’re here for you. Reach out today, and let’s find the perfect secondary school for your child.