Holmer Green Senior School Review 2026: High Progress and Community Focus

Holmer Green Senior School (HGSS) is a high-performing academy in the heart of Buckinghamshire that serves a mixed-ability cohort of approximately 1,240 students. In a county where the selective grammar system often dominates the educational narrative, HGSS stands out for its exceptional value-added progress. The school ranks 1,946th in England for GCSE outcomes (FindMySchool ranking), which places it comfortably within the middle 35% of schools in England (25th to 60th percentile).

Mr Edward Hillyard has led the school as Headteacher since September 2018, overseeing a period of sustained academic growth and facility development. The school’s motto, Work Hard, Be Kind, Have Passion, is central to its daily operations. The latest Ofsted inspection in 2021 confirmed the school maintains a Good rating, highlighting the strong sense of safety and motivation among students.

The atmosphere at Holmer Green is purposeful and inclusive. Students arrive at the Parish Piece site in smart teal and black uniforms, and there is a palpable sense of belonging that comes from being a medium-sized village school. The leadership team is visible and engaged, creating a culture where staff and students are encouraged to become the best versions of themselves.

Physical improvements have modernized the campus, which now includes a dedicated Sixth Form centre with a coffee lounge and independent study areas. The school operates as a single-academy trust, allowing it to maintain a distinct local identity while focusing resources on the specific needs of its Buckinghamshire community.

Academic performance at HGSS is defined by strong progress. The school's Progress 8 score of 0.4 indicates that students achieve nearly half a grade higher in every subject than predicted based on their primary school starting points. This places the school 7th among the 28 secondary schools in the High Wycombe area.

At GCSE, the average Attainment 8 score is 49.6, which is well above the England average of 46.2. In 2024, 55.6% of pupils achieved grade 5 or above in English and maths GCSEs, outperforming the England average of 45.9%.

Post-16 results are equally competitive. The school ranks 1,297th in England for A-levels (FindMySchool ranking) and 6th in High Wycombe. In 2024, the A-level grade profile was strong, with 49.2% of entries achieving A*, A, or B grades. Subjects such as Geography (76% A*-B) and Biology (55% A*-B) performed particularly well compared to England averages.

Teaching at Holmer Green is characterized by subject expertise and a focus on personalized support. The curriculum is broad and balanced, designed to challenge the highest achievers while supporting those who need additional help. Teachers use a range of assessment techniques to ensure students stay on track, and the school’s "Scholars Programme" provides high-attaining pupils with opportunities to experience university-level study through partnerships with institutions like Goldsmiths and King's College London.

In the Sixth Form, the transition to independent learning is supported by structured study periods and a personal development programme. The school offers a mix of traditional A-levels and BTEC qualifications, ensuring multiple pathways to success.

Where Students Go Next

Student destinations are varied and reflect the school's all-ability mission. According to the 2023/24 leavers data, 57% of students progressed to university, while 27% entered employment and 6% secured apprenticeships.

The school’s UCAS support is noted for being thorough. Recent graduates have secured places at a range of prestigious institutions, including the University of Birmingham, King's College London, Exeter, and Nottingham. Some students have also secured full scholarships to American universities, such as Eckerd College in Florida.

Securing a place at HGSS is a competitive process due to its popularity. For the current intake, the school received 621 applications for its 210 Year 7 places, representing a subscription proportion of nearly 3.0. This means there are approximately three applications for every available place.

The school follows the Buckinghamshire local authority coordinated admissions process. Priority is given to siblings and those living within the local catchment area. Parents should use the FindMySchoolMap Search to check their precise distance from the school gates compared to the last distance offered.

Fees & Financial Aid

As a state-funded academy, Holmer Green Senior School does not charge tuition fees. Education provided during school hours is free of charge, as are any activities that are part of the National Curriculum or public examination syllabuses.

The school does request voluntary contributions for certain enrichment activities and trips. For families facing financial hardship, the school’s Charging and Remissions Policy outlines that support may be available for essential costs such as residential board and lodgings. Additionally, the school offers STEAM Scholarships in the Sixth Form, which provide successful applicants with course materials and career support in fields like Medicine, Engineering, and Veterinary Science.

Pastoral care is a significant strength of the school. Students report feeling safe and well-supported, with 90% of parents agreeing that their child is happy at HGSS. The school uses a House system—Austen, Enigma, Faraday, and Turing—to create a smaller community feel within the larger school.

Each year group has a dedicated pastoral lead, and there are strong systems in place to manage bullying and mental health. The presence of a Sixth Form Learning Mentor and a careers advisor further ensures that students have access to professional guidance throughout their school journey.

The extracurricular programme is broad, with a focus on both physical activity and personal development. Facilities available for student use include a sports hall, a dance studio, a drama studio, and a multi-use games area (MUGA).

Clubs and Societies

The school hosts the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme from Bronze to Gold levels. Other active groups include the Brilliant Club, various sports teams, and performing arts societies.

STEM and Arts

The school is particularly strong in its STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) provision, offering specialized scholarships that include professional career support.

The school day typically runs from 8:35am to 3:10pm. While there is no formal before- or after-school childcare provision, many clubs and enrichment sessions run after the main school day. Transport is accessible via local bus routes serving High Wycombe and Great Missenden.

• Oversubscription: Admission is the primary hurdle; entry is fiercely competitive with nearly three applications for every place.
• Sixth Form entry: Progression to Year 12 requires meeting specific grade thresholds in GCSE subjects, typically a grade 5 or 6 in chosen A-level subjects.
• Non-selective context: Families should consider how an all-ability environment suits their child compared to the local grammar school alternatives.

Holmer Green Senior School is a thriving academy that excels in adding value to its students. Its strong progress scores and inclusive atmosphere make it a highly attractive choice for local families. Best suited to students who want a balanced education with strong pastoral support and clear pathways to both university and high-level apprenticeships.