The 11+ is the entrance test for grammar schools in England. It's taken at the start of Year 6 by children who want a place at a grammar school. Only some parts of the country have grammar schools, and each area runs its 11+ a little differently, so the first step is always to check the details with your local schools or council.
What's in the test?
Most 11+ tests use a mix of these four areas:
- Verbal reasoning: word puzzles, such as codes, analogies, hidden words and letter sequences.
- Non-verbal reasoning: shape and pattern puzzles, such as sequences, rotations and odd ones out.
- Maths: usually Key Stage 2 maths, with some problem solving that goes a little further.
- English: comprehension, vocabulary, spelling and grammar. Some areas also ask for a piece of writing.
Many areas use multiple-choice answer sheets. Some grammar schools set their own papers.
The timeline
- Year 5, spring and summer: look at schools and register for the test. Registration usually closes in the summer of Year 5, so check the deadline early.
- Year 6, September: most tests take place.
- Year 6, October: results usually arrive before the secondary school application deadline of 31 October.
- 1 March: National Offer Day, when families hear which secondary school their child has been offered.
How are scores worked out?
Most areas use standardised scores. These adjust for age, because a child born in September has had almost a year longer to learn than one born in August. Each area sets its own qualifying score, and a qualifying score doesn't always guarantee a place. Popular schools may also use distance or other criteria.
How to prepare, without the pressure
- Read widely. A strong vocabulary helps in verbal reasoning and English. Fiction, non-fiction and newspapers all count.
- Get familiar with the question types. Reasoning puzzles feel strange at first and become much easier once children know the patterns.
- Secure the maths. Fractions, percentages, ratio and problem solving come up often.
- Practise under time, later on. Start untimed to build accuracy, then add time in the months before the test.
- Keep perspective. Your child will thrive at many kinds of school. Tell them that their effort matters more than the result.
How Leverrs helps
Leverrs Academy has 11+ lessons for Years 5 and 6 covering verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, maths problem solving and vocabulary. It also has practice papers that give an estimated standardised score, and a learning path that focuses on what your child finds hardest. See 11+ preparation on Leverrs.
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