High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire · HP11 1SZ
John Hampden Grammar School is a boys' day grammar in High Wycombe with a strong academic reputation and an explicit character-focused ethos framed around their '#BeMore' mission. The school emphasises not only exceptional academic results but also resilience, leadership, collaboration and responsibility. As an 11–18 selective grammar, it draws from a wide catchment and serves ambitious families across Buckinghamshire and neighbouring areas.
Who thrives here
Bright, well-motivated boys who thrive in a structured selective environment and value both academic rigour and broader personal development. Pupils keen on leadership roles, sport, music or service will find plenty of outlet.
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
Marlow Hill
High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire
HP11 1SZ
Nearest stations
John Hampden Grammar School is a state grammar school, so there are no tuition fees — places are free and allocated by the 11-plus exam and the school’s admissions criteria.
John Hampden Grammar School admits pupils at 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by 11+ Selective Examination. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.
At John Hampden Grammar School, 31.4% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 62.3% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.
John Hampden Grammar School is a day school in High Wycombe and does not offer boarding.
Ofsted rated John Hampden Grammar School “Outstanding” (2022).
Frequently praised
✓Strong academic results and selective entry culture
✓Excellent pastoral care and wellbeing provision
✓Breadth of co-curricular activities and leadership opportunities
✓Value for money with free school meals for all
✓Emphasis on character and resilience alongside academics
✓Supportive staff culture with personalised attention
Common concerns
!Not yet inspected by Ofsted, so no independent validation of quality claims
!Selective entry pressures and 11-plus exam stress for feeder school families
!Day-only provision requires reliable family transport logistics
!Limited diversity in selective grammar environment may not suit all families