Every year, thousands of children across the UK sit for the 11 plus exams, hoping to earn a place at one of the country’s prestigious grammar or selective schools. These exams are designed to identify students with strong academic potential, but for most families, the challenge lies in how to prepare effectively.
The 11 plus exams test not just what a child knows, but how they think. They measure problem-solving, reasoning, comprehension, and numerical understanding, all under strict time limits. So, preparation isn’t about rote learning or memorization; it’s about strategy, confidence, and consistency.
Preparing for the 11 plus exams requires a balanced approach, early planning, the right resources, regular practice, and emotional support. With the right structure, your child can walk into the exam room not just ready, but confident.
Let’s explore everything you need to know , from understanding the exam format to building a successful study routine.
1. Understanding What the 11 Plus Exams Are
The 11 plus exams are entrance assessments taken by children in Year 6 (ages 10–11) who want to gain entry into grammar schools or selective independent schools across England.
Not every region in the UK uses them, but in areas like Kent, Essex, Buckinghamshire, Lincolnshire, and Warwickshire, they remain a key part of the school admissions process.
The exam aims to measure a child’s academic ability and potential through four key subjects:
- English / Verbal Reasoning
- Maths / Numerical Reasoning
- Non-Verbal Reasoning
- Comprehension / Vocabulary
- Some schools also include a writing task.
There are two main exam providers: GL Assessment and CEM (Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring). Each has its own format, question style, and time limits. Understanding which one your target school uses is your first step in preparing properly.
2. Why Preparation Matters
Even bright children can struggle if they go into the 11 plus exams unprepared.
The test is different from normal schoolwork; it’s faster, trickier, and designed to stretch logical reasoning. Early, structured preparation gives your child:
- Confidence: familiarity with question types reduces anxiety.
- Speed: Timed practice helps manage exam pressure.
- Accuracy: regular review eliminates careless mistakes.
- Endurance: longer papers require focus and stamina.
The earlier you start, the more natural the process becomes.
3. When to Start Preparing
A good rule of thumb is to start light preparation about 12–18 months before the exam, around Year 4 or early Year 5.
Here’s a simple timeline:
| School Year | Goal | Focus Areas |
| Year 4 (ages 8–9) | Build foundations | Reading, vocabulary, basic maths, logical games |
| Year 5 (ages 9–10) | Structured learning | Introduce 11+-style questions, short tests |
| Summer before Year 6 | Intensive revision | Full mock exams, timed practice |
| Year 6 (exam term) | Final preparation | Review, confidence-building, rest |
Starting too late often leads to rushed cramming and unnecessary stress.
4. Understand the Exam Format
Knowing the structure of the 11 plus exams is key.
GL Assessment
Separate papers for each subject: English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning.
- Mostly multiple-choice.
- Usually lasts 45–60 minutes per paper.
- CEM (used in Birmingham, Warwickshire, and others)
- Combined papers mixing English, Maths, and reasoning questions.
- Often two long papers (~ 50 minutes each).
- Focuses more on problem-solving and comprehension.
Once you know your area’s exam board, you can choose the right books and practice papers.
Choose the Right Study Resources
Not all study materials are created equal. Pick resources tailored to your child’s exam board and learning style.
- Trusted 11+ Resources:
- GL Assessment Official Practice Papers
- Bond 11+ Books (subject-based and mock packs)
- CGP 11+ Guides and Workbooks
- QuestForExams.co.uk, online practice with instant feedback and analytics.
What to Look for:
- Updated editions (2025–2026 format)
- Answer sheets with explanations
- Mixed question difficulty
- Section-wise practice (so children can target weak areas)
- A few high-quality resources used consistently beat dozens of random worksheets.
7. Create a Study Routine
Children thrive on consistency. A steady study plan keeps preparation manageable.
Here’s a simple structure:
1. Short, Focused Sessions
30–45 minutes per day is plenty at first.
Avoid marathon sessions that lead to burnout.
2. Mix Subjects
Alternate between maths, English, and reasoning to keep things interesting.
3. Weekly Goals
Example: “Complete one English paper and one reasoning test this week.”
4. Review Mistakes
Go over wrong answers together, understanding the error is where learning happens.
5. Build in Rewards
After every milestone, celebrate progress. A little motivation goes a long way.
8. Use 11+ Practice Papers Wisely
Practice papers are the backbone of 11+ preparation.
Start introducing 11 plus exam-style papers about 6–9 months before the exam.
How to Use Them
- Begin with untimed practice, focus on accuracy first.
- Gradually add time limits once your child is confident.
- Review completed papers carefully, identifying recurring mistakes.
- Track scores to see improvement over time.
- Once every few weeks, simulate full exam conditions at home.
- This builds familiarity and exam-day stamina.
9. Focus on Time Management
Time is the trickiest part of the 11 plus exams. Even well-prepared children can run out of time.
Here’s how to train effectively:
- Use a timer in every practice session.
- Teach “skip and return”: if a question seems tough, move on and come back later.
- Encourage quick reading without missing key details.
- Practise mental maths to save seconds.
- Good timing can make the difference between a pass and a near-miss
10. Take Mock Exams
Mock exams are a must for any serious preparation plan.
They help your child:
- Experience the pressure of a real test.
- Learn pacing and endurance.
- Handle exam-hall nerves.
- See how different question styles are mixed.
Aim for at least two to three mock exams before the real test, one around June and one in August.
Many online platforms and tutoring centres, like QuestForExams.co.uk, offer realistic mock exams that match GL and CEM formats.
11. Track Progress and Adjust
Keep a simple log or spreadsheet of practice scores. Look for trends:
- Are maths results improving, but English lagging?
- Is timing still a challenge?
- Which topics keep recurring as weak points?
Adjust your weekly plan accordingly , more time on weaker subjects, but keep revisiting strengths too.
12. Keep Stress Levels Low
Preparing for 11 plus exams can feel intense for families, but a calm child performs best.
Tips to manage stress:
- Avoid comparisons with classmates or cousins.
- Take short breaks after every study session.
- Encourage outdoor play and hobbies.
- Emphasize effort over results.
When children know their parents are proud of their dedication, not just their scores, they stay motivated.
13. Involve Parents and Teachers
You don’t need to be a professional tutor to guide your child.
Here’s how you can help:
- Discuss progress with teachers; they know your child’s strengths.
- Set small, achievable goals at home.
- Read together daily to boost vocabulary.
- Stay updated on local grammar-school registration deadlines.
- Teamwork between parents, schools, and students makes the journey smoother.
14. The Final Weeks Before the Exam
In the last month:
- Switch from learning new material to reviewing.
- Revisit previous mock papers and analyse errors.
- Focus on speed, accuracy, and confidence.
- Practise waking up early and following an exam-day routine.
- The night before the exam:
- Pack stationery and documents.
- Get a good night’s sleep.
- Keep the morning calm and positive.
- A relaxed mindset always outperforms panic.
Conclusion: The Key to 11 Plus Success Is Smart Preparation
The 11 plus exams aren’t about perfection, they’re about consistency, understanding, and self-belief.
Start early, plan wisely, and build practice into your child’s daily rhythm. Support them emotionally and remind them that success isn’t measured by one test , it’s built by discipline, curiosity, and confidence.
With patient guidance and focused practice, your child can not only pass the 11 plus exam but also learn skills that will serve them for life.
FAQs
Q1: What are the 11 plus exams?
A1: They are entrance tests for grammar and selective schools in England, usually taken by children aged 10–11 in Year 6.
Q2: When should my child start preparing for the 11 plus exams?
A2: Ideally, begin light preparation in Year 4, moving to structured study in Year 5. This allows enough time without pressure.
Q3: How many hours per week should my child study?
A3: Around 3–5 hours weekly in Year 5, increasing to 6–8 hours closer to the exam. Keep sessions short and focused.
Q4: Which exam boards use the 11 plus exams?
A4: The two main boards are GL Assessment and CEM. Check which local grammar schools use to pick the right materials.
Q5: How can I make preparation less stressful?
A5: Balance study with rest and hobbies, avoid comparisons, and celebrate small wins. A calm, confident child performs best.