The 11+ Exam: A Parent’s Complete Guide to Preparation
What is the 11+ Exam?
The 11+ (or Eleven Plus) is an entrance exam used by grammar schools and some independent schools in England to select students for Year 7 entry. It’s typically taken in the autumn of Year 6, when children are 10–11 years old. The exam varies by region but generally covers Maths, English, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning.
When Should You Start Preparing?
🕐 The Sweet Spot: 12–18 Months Before
Most experts recommend starting preparation at the start of Year 5. This gives enough time to identify gaps, build familiarity with the format, develop speed under timed conditions, and reduce exam anxiety through gradual exposure.
Starting too early → burnout. Starting too late → unnecessary pressure.
What’s Actually on the 11+ Exam?
📐 Maths
The 11+ Maths paper covers the Year 5 and Year 6 curriculum, plus some topics beyond what’s taught in school:
- Arithmetic (fractions, decimals, percentages)
- Algebra (simple equations and sequences)
- Geometry (area, perimeter, volume, angles)
- Data handling (interpreting charts and tables)
- Problem-solving and word problems
📝 English
- Reading comprehension (fiction and non-fiction passages)
- Creative or persuasive writing
- Spelling, grammar, and punctuation
- Vocabulary
🔤 Verbal Reasoning
This tests language-based problem-solving: word codes, analogies, word patterns, and logic puzzles. Many children haven’t encountered these before, so specific practice is essential.
🔷 Non-Verbal Reasoning
Pattern recognition with shapes and figures. This tests spatial awareness and logical thinking without relying on language skills.
How to Prepare Effectively
1. Assess Where Your Child Stands
Before diving into practice papers, understand your child’s current level. Where are the gaps? Which areas need the most work?
✅ First Step
Get a diagnostic assessment — either through practice tests or a tutor. This tells you exactly where to focus your efforts instead of guessing.
2. Build a Steady Routine
⚠️ Don’t Cram!
20–30 minutes of focused practice 4–5 times a week is far more effective than 3-hour weekend cramming sessions. Your child still needs to be a child.
3. Use Quality Resources
📚 Recommended Materials
- Bond, CGP, and GL Assessment practice papers
- Past papers from your target school (if available)
- Timed practice under exam conditions (start untimed, build up gradually)
4. Focus on Weak Areas
It’s tempting to keep practising what your child is good at — it feels productive. But the biggest gains come from working on weaknesses. If verbal reasoning is the weak spot, that’s where the time should go.
5. Build Exam Stamina
The 11+ can be a long, intense experience for a 10-year-old. Gradually build up to full-length, timed practice papers so the real thing feels familiar, not overwhelming.
The Role of a Tutor
A good 11+ tutor brings structure, expertise, and accountability. They can:
- Create a tailored preparation plan based on your child’s strengths and weaknesses
- Teach exam strategies and time management
- Keep your child motivated and confident
- Take the pressure off parents (tutoring can strain the parent-child relationship!)
At JC Academy Online, our 11+ tutors work with children across the UK via 1-to-1 online lessons, covering all exam boards and school-specific formats.
Managing Exam Stress
💛 Remember
The 11+ is important, but it’s not everything. Children pick up on parental anxiety, so keep things positive and low-pressure at home. Celebrate effort, not just results. Make sure there’s plenty of downtime, play, and normal childhood alongside the preparation.
Want Expert Help with 11+ Preparation?
Book a free consultation to discuss your child’s needs with one of our specialist tutors.
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