As summer moves into full swing, many parents of Year 4, Year 5 and Year 6 students are beginning to turn their attention to the 11+ exams. Whether you're new to the process or already knee-deep in practice papers and vocabulary lists, this guide will give you a clear picture of what to expect - and how to help your child succeed.

What Is the 11+ Exam?

The 11+ is an entrance exam used by grammar schools and some independent schools in England to select students for Year 7 entry. Typically taken in Year 6 (at age 10 or 11), the exam assesses a child's academic potential across several key areas:

• English / Verbal Reasoning
• Maths / Non-Verbal Reasoning
• Reading Comprehension & Creative Writing
• Spelling, Punctuation & Grammar (SPaG)

Each local authority or school may use different formats (GL Assessment, CEM, or school-specific tests), so it's important to know which one your target schools follow.

When Are the 11+ Exams Held?

Most 11+ exams are taken in September of Year 6, with registration opening between April and June of Year 5. Key dates can vary by region, so always check with your preferred school or local authority early in the year.

Is the 11+ Right for My Child?

Grammar schools are academically selective, so the 11+ is best suited for children who enjoy learning and show strong aptitude in literacy and numeracy. However, success isn’t just about ability - it’s about preparation, mindset, and confidence.

How to Prepare for the 11+

At TutorHive, we break preparation into manageable steps:

1. Early Assessment
   Identify your child's strengths and areas for improvement. A baseline test can help target their learning plan.
2. Building Core Skills
   Focus on building vocabulary, arithmetic accuracy, comprehension techniques, and logical reasoning.
3. Timed Practice
   Introduce exam conditions slowly to help your child manage time pressure and reduce nerves.
4. Mock Exams
   Simulate real test conditions to boost exam confidence and reduce surprises on the day.

Common Myths About the 11+

• “Only naturally gifted children pass.”
  Truth: With the right support and steady practice, many children make excellent progress.
• “It’s all about speed.”
  Truth: Strategy, accuracy, and understanding are just as important as speed.

How TutorHive Can Help: Join Our 11+ Summer Bootcamp!

This summer, TutorHive is running a focused 11+ Bootcamp - a structured and supportive programme designed to give your child a head start before the September exams.

✅ Expert 11+ tutors
✅ Small groups of 6
✅ 1.5 hour online sessions
✅ Maths/ English/ VR/ NVR
✅ Weekly progress tracking
✅ Practice papers under timed conditions
✅ Expert feedback and confidence coaching
✅ Covers GL, CEM, and school-specific formats
✅ Affordable rates at £11.11 per 1.5 hour class.

Places are limited to ensure personalised attention - book early to secure your child’s spot!

Preparing for the 11+ isn’t just about passing a test - it’s about unlocking your child’s confidence, study habits, and love of learning. With the right approach - and the right support - your child can walk into that exam hall feeling ready, not rattled.

Let TutorHive help your child take that next step. Get in touch today to learn more about our 11+ Bootcamp and personalised tutoring programmes.

Contact +44 7355 541621/ [email protected]
Or Visit tutorhive.info/11plus