11 Plus For Parents
What You Need To Know
The 11 Plus Exam is a selective entrance exam used by grammar and some independent schools to assess children’s academic ability at the end of primary school. While the format varies across regions, most tests cover English, maths, verbal reasoning and non-verbal reasoning, with each area designed to measure different skills. The exam is usually taken at the start of Year 6, and preparation often begins in Year 4 or 5. Because the 11 Plus isn’t part of the national curriculum, the content can feel unfamiliar, so parents play an important role in providing structure, encouragement and access to helpful resources. Understanding how the exam works makes it much easier to support your child with confidence.
When To Start The Preparation
A good time to begin 11 Plus preparation is usually around Year 4 or the beginning of Year 5, as this gives children enough space to build key skills at a steady pace. Starting early helps them grow familiar with the subjects, develop reasoning abilities and gain confidence without feeling rushed. That said, the right time varies for each child – some benefit from an earlier introduction, while others make strong progress with a slightly later start and a clear structure. The goal is to choose a starting point that keeps preparation balanced, manageable and positive.
Where Is Best For Your Child
Choosing the right 11 Plus Grammar school is about finding a setting where your child feels challenged, supported and happy. Although grammar schools share a selective entry process, each one has its own strengths – some excel in academic achievement, others offer impressive extracurricular programmes or strong pastoral care. Consider your child’s learning style, confidence levels and interests when exploring options. Visiting schools, attending open events and speaking to staff can help you understand the environment and expectations at each one. In the end, the best grammar school is the one that suits your child’s personality and gives them the space to grow.
Why Choose Pass 11 Plus
Pass Eleven Plus offers a full-spectrum preparation programme designed to give your child the support they need at every stage of the 11 Plus journey. From one-to-one tutoring with experienced, DBS-checked tutors, through carefully sequenced revision and exam-style questions, to full papers and realistic mock exams in both online and in-person formats, they ensure your child builds knowledge, confidence and exam-readiness. The flexible approach includes tailoring to each child’s strengths and learning pace, allowing parents to stay informed and involved, and giving your child the structured path they need to tackle the assessment calmly, clearly and successfully.
How To Prepare Your Child
Preparing your child for the 11 Plus is all about building steady habits and helping them feel confident. Start by introducing the subjects they’ll encounter, then create a simple routine that includes short, regular study sessions. Encourage them to practise key skills at a comfortable pace and make sure they have access to materials suited to their level. As they progress, you can add exam-style questions and, later on, full 11 Plus Exam Papers to help them understand the format. Most importantly, keep the process positive – offer praise, keep stress low and remind them that improvement happens gradually. With the right support, your child can approach the 11 Plus feeling prepared and motivated.
11 Plus For Parents FAQs
How do I know if the 11 Plus is the right choice for my child?
A key question in any 11 Plus for parents discussion is whether a selective school suits your child’s academic strengths, learning style and confidence. Thinking about how they respond to challenge can help guide your decision. It’s always a good idea to research your local schools; you can go to the Ofsted website and see how your school ranks.
Are all grammar schools part of the same 11 Plus system?
No, and this is something 11 Plus for parents guides always stress. Different regions use different exam boards and formats, so it’s essential to check your local area or chosen schools to see which test applies.
What role should parents play during preparation?
One of the most important points in 11 Plus for parents advice is that your role is supportive, not instructional. Creating routines, encouraging steady revision and keeping the atmosphere calm helps children make consistent progress.
Is the 11 Plus based on the national curriculum?
Not entirely. While some content overlaps with school learning, areas like verbal and non-verbal reasoning are not taught in most primary schools.
How competitive is the 11 Plus?
Competition varies widely by area, and understanding this is a big part of 11 Plus for parents planning. Some regions have significantly more applicants than places, while others have a more balanced ratio.
What happens if my child doesn’t pass the 11 Plus?
Many excellent non-selective schools offer strong academic and pastoral support, and children often thrive in environments that match their needs and learning style.