The 11+ exam is a key milestone for many children in England, as it determines admission to grammar schools and selective independent schools. Preparing for it can be a challenging yet rewarding journey, requiring the right balance of strategy, support, and confidence-building. Here’s a practical guide for parents on how to help their child get ready for the 11+ exam effectively.
1. Understand What the 11+ Exam Involves
Before diving into preparation, it’s important to understand the structure of the 11+. The exam usually tests four main areas:
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Verbal reasoning – understanding and analyzing written information.
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Non-verbal reasoning – solving visual and spatial puzzles.
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Mathematics – problem-solving and numerical reasoning.
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English – grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension.
Different regions and grammar schools use different exam boards (such as GL Assessment or CEM), so always check your local authority or school’s admission criteria to know exactly what to expect.
2. Start Early and Create a Study Plan
Ideally, preparation should begin at least a year before the exam, giving your child enough time to develop strong foundational skills. Start with short, regular study sessions — about 30 to 45 minutes a day — and gradually increase intensity closer to the exam date.
Create a study timetable that includes:
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Weekly goals for each subject area.
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Time for reviewing mistakes and revisiting weak topics.
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Scheduled breaks to avoid burnout.
Consistency matters more than cramming, so encourage steady progress rather than last-minute stress.
3. Use the Right Practice Materials
There are many excellent 11+ practice papers and workbooks available both online and in print. Stick to materials designed for your child’s target schools or region. Popular publishers like Bond, CGP, and GL Assessment offer graded books that mirror real exam questions.
Online resources such as 11PlusExams.co.uk, Bond Online, and Atom Learning also provide interactive exercises and progress tracking.
4. Focus on Core Skills Early
The 11+ doesn’t just test memorisation — it evaluates critical thinking, logic, and comprehension. Strengthen your child’s:
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Reading habits – encourage daily reading of different genres to boost vocabulary and comprehension.
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Mental maths – practise times tables, fractions, and problem-solving regularly.
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Reasoning skills – use puzzles, logic games, and pattern recognition exercises.
Building these skills early helps children feel more confident when tackling timed questions.
5. Incorporate Mock Tests and Time Management
Once your child is familiar with the question types, introduce mock tests under exam conditions. These simulate the real experience, helping children manage time pressure and reduce anxiety.
After each mock test:
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Review mistakes together and identify recurring problem areas.
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Teach strategies such as skipping difficult questions and returning later.
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Track improvement to keep motivation high.
6. Keep Learning Fun and Balanced
The 11+ can be demanding, but preparation doesn’t have to be stressful. Mix learning with educational games, quizzes, and storytelling to make studying enjoyable. Apps like Quizlet, Kahoot!, and Mathletics offer fun alternatives to traditional revision.
Also, ensure your child has time for relaxation, sports, and hobbies. A healthy balance supports emotional well-being and keeps motivation steady.
7. Build Confidence and a Positive Mindset
Many children feel nervous about the 11+, so focus on confidence-building as much as academics. Praise effort over results, and remind your child that the exam is just one step in their educational journey.
Encourage a growth mindset — mistakes are learning opportunities, not failures. Calm reassurance from parents plays a huge role in reducing exam anxiety.
8. Consider Professional Support If Needed
If your child struggles in specific areas, consider hiring an 11+ tutor or enrolling them in a prep course. Experienced tutors can provide personalized guidance, structure, and practice tailored to your child’s needs.
However, tutoring should complement — not replace — your child’s self-study and school learning.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for the 11+ exam is as much about developing confidence and discipline as it is about academic skills. With the right preparation plan, consistent practice, and emotional support, your child can approach exam day with calm assurance.
Remember: success isn’t just about passing the 11+ — it’s about nurturing a lifelong love of learning and resilience that goes beyond one test.