How to Prepare Your Child for Their 11 Plus Exams

When children reach the later years of primary school, many parents begin considering secondary school options and hearing about the 11 Plus exam. The process can initially seem confusing, particularly if you have never navigated grammar school admissions before. Understanding how the exam works and how preparation typically takes place can help you feel more confident about supporting your child.

How does the 11 Plus work?

The 11 Plus is an entrance exam used by grammar schools to select students for Year 7. Most children sit the test in Year 6. The exam commonly includes maths, English, verbal reasoning and non-verbal reasoning questions. Maths and English are taught at school, but reasoning questions often require extra practice.

What are 11 Plus consortiums?

In some regions, grammar schools form groups known as consortiums. Schools in the same 11 Plus consortium share the same entrance test. This means your child may only need to take one exam that can be used for applications to multiple schools in that group.

If my child passes, are they guaranteed entry?

Not necessarily. Many grammar schools use the 11 Plus as the first stage of their admissions process. After candidates pass the 11 Plus, they may also consider factors such as catchment area or whether siblings attend the school. Because of this, passing the exam does not always guarantee a place.

How can I help my child revise for the 11 Plus?

Parents often support essential 11 Plus preparation by practising questions at home. This can involve working through maths problems, improving reading comprehension, and practising reasoning questions. Practice papers are particularly useful because they help children understand how the exam is structured. You can find practice papers in a full preparation kit for the 11 Plus.

Are all 11 Plus tests the same?

No. The exact format varies between schools and consortiums. Some tests include more reasoning questions, while others focus more on maths and English. Checking the format for your chosen schools is an important first step.

Can I buy school-specific revision materials?

Yes, there are online providers that create resources tailored to particular grammar schools. At Courses and Exams, we see parents often find an 11 Plus essentials pack which includes revision guides and exam papers designed to support structured preparation.

When should we start preparing?

Preparation often begins in Year 4 or Year 5. Starting early allows children to build confidence with the topics gradually, and helps avoid exam stress.

Can we revise the subjects for free?

Free revision materials are widely available online. These often explain topics individually but may not follow a structured learning pathway.

How do I know if my child should aim for the 11 Plus?

The exam is typically considered by families whose children are working at a higher academic level and are interested in attending a grammar school.

Which schools require the 11 Plus?

Grammar schools across England use the 11 Plus as part of their admissions process.

What school should my child go to?

Parents should consider factors such as school environment, travel time and whether their child feels comfortable with the school’s atmosphere.

Will my school have dedicated resources?

Some schools provide guidance, but many focus primarily on the national maths and English curriculum. Parents often use additional materials such as 11 Plus exam papers to support preparation.

Conclusion

Preparing for the 11 Plus becomes much easier once you understand the process. By gathering information early and helping your child practise regularly, you can support them as they work towards grammar school entry.

Written by

Courses and Exams Team

We help thousands of students each year with revision, courses and online exams.