How to Start Preparing for the 11+ Exam: A Parent's Guide

Understanding the 11+ Exam

Preparing for the 11+ exam can feel overwhelming for many families. With selective grammar schools often highly competitive, it's natural for parents to want to give their child the best possible chance. The key is to start preparation early, take a structured approach, and keep the process positive and manageable for your child.

In this guide, we'll walk through the essentials of starting 11+ preparation, including when to begin, what subjects to focus on, and how to support your child effectively.

The 11+ is an entrance exam used by many grammar schools and some independent schools in the UK to select pupils for Year 7. While the format can vary depending on the region or school, most 11+ exams assess a combination of the following areas:

• English – comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, and sometimes creative writing

• Mathematics – problem solving, arithmetic, and reasoning

• Verbal Reasoning – logic and word-based problem solving

• Non-Verbal Reasoning – patterns, shapes, and spatial thinking

Some schools use exam providers such as GL Assessment or CEM, which have slightly different styles and question types. Understanding which exam your target schools use is an important first step.

When Should You Start Preparing?

Many parents begin thinking about the 11+ when their child is in Year 4 or early Year 5. Starting early allows children to build skills gradually rather than feeling pressured close to the exam.

A typical timeline looks like this:

• Year 4: Light preparation and skill building

• Year 5 (Autumn–Spring): More structured practice and topic coverage

• Year 5 (Summer): Mock exams and timed practice

The goal is not to overload your child but to introduce concepts steadily and build confidence over time.

Build Strong Foundations First

Before diving into practice papers, it's important that your child has strong core skills. Many 11+ questions test logic and understanding rather than memorisation, so building a solid academic foundation is essential.

Focus on:

• Reading regularly to expand vocabulary and comprehension skills

• Mental maths practice to improve speed and accuracy

• Problem-solving activities such as puzzles and reasoning games

Children who enjoy reading and thinking through problems often find the transition to 11+ style questions much easier.

Introduce 11+ Question Types Gradually

Once your child is comfortable with their core skills, you can start introducing the types of questions commonly found in the 11+.

Begin with small practice sessions, perhaps 15–20 minutes a few times a week. Gradually increase the difficulty as your child becomes more confident.

Helpful resources include:

• 11+ practice books and workbooks

• Online learning platforms

• Educational apps and reasoning games

The aim is to make practice feel manageable rather than stressful.

Create a Consistent Study Routine

Consistency is far more effective than cramming. A short, regular study routine helps children retain information and build exam confidence.

A simple weekly routine might include:

• Two or three short study sessions during the week

• One longer session at the weekend

• Reading time every day

Try to keep study sessions positive and balanced with plenty of free time.

Consider Extra Support if Needed

Some families choose to work with a tutor or enrol their child in a preparation programme. This can be particularly helpful if:

• Your child needs help with specific subjects

• You want structured guidance and resources

• You are unfamiliar with the 11+ format

However, tutoring isn't essential for every child. Many students prepare successfully using practice materials and parental support.

Keep Confidence and Wellbeing a Priority

While preparation is important, it's equally important to ensure your child feels supported and encouraged throughout the process.

Remember to:

• Praise effort rather than just results

• Avoid comparing your child to others

• Keep learning fun and engaging

• Maintain balance with hobbies, sports, and social time

Children who feel confident and relaxed often perform better than those who feel pressured.

Preparing for the 11+ exam doesn't have to be stressful. By starting early, focusing on strong foundations, and building a consistent routine, you can help your child approach the exam with confidence.

Most importantly, remember that the 11+ is just one pathway. Supporting your child's curiosity, resilience, and love of learning will benefit them far beyond any single exam.