How to Prepare Your Child for Their 11 Plus Exams

The 11 Plus process can feel confusing for parents who have not encountered grammar school admissions before. Many families begin looking into the exam when their child reaches the later years of primary school and quickly realise there is a lot to understand. From researching schools to finding suitable revision resources, preparation involves several steps. The guide below explains how parents can support their child through the 11 Plus journey while applying to secondary schools.

Step 1: Understand the 11 Plus

The 11 Plus is an entrance exam used by grammar schools consortiums for the 11 Plus to help select pupils for Year 7. Children usually take the test in Year 6.

Most exams assess maths and English, alongside verbal reasoning and non-verbal reasoning. Maths and English topics are taught in school, but reasoning questions may require additional practice because they are not included in the maths and English curriculum.

Step 2: Research Grammar Schools

Before beginning revision for the 11 Plus, it is helpful to identify which grammar schools you may apply to.

You should try to find out:

• Which schools are nearby

• Whether they are part of a consortium

• The exam format used by those schools

• Application deadlines and exam dates

Having this information will help guide your child’s preparation.

Step 3: Provide Revision Materials

Once you understand the exam format, the next step is to gather revision resources.

Parents often support their child by working through maths problems, reading comprehension exercises, and reasoning questions at home. Practice papers are particularly useful because they help children become familiar with the style and pace of the exam.

At Skipton Tutors, we recommend parents access an 11 Plus essentials pack that includes both revision guides and exam papers, helping families organise preparation more easily.

Step 4: Start Preparation Early

Although the exam is taken in Year 6, many families begin introducing revision topics in Year 4 or Year 5.

Starting earlier allows children to practise gradually and build confidence over time rather than feeling rushed.

Step 5: Practise Exam Technique

Regular 11 Plus practice papers can help children develop strong exam techniques.

Encourage your child to manage their time carefully, move on from difficult questions, and return to them later if time allows. You can find practice papers in a full 11 Plus bundle.

Step 6: Keep the Process Positive

Preparing for the 11 Plus should remain a positive experience.

Reward effort rather than focusing only on scores, and ensure your child has plenty of time for rest and hobbies alongside revision.

Final Thoughts

The key to preparing for the 11 Plus is understanding the exam format, starting preparation early, and providing regular opportunities to practise. With the right guidance and resources, many children approach the exam feeling confident and well prepared.