Preparing for the 11 Plus can feel overwhelming, but most of what makes a difference is simple and steady. These six tips will help you plan with confidence.
1. Start early and keep it steady
Many families begin gentle preparation in Year 4 or early Year 5. Starting early means you can build skills gradually, a little each week, rather than cramming in the months before the exam.
2. Make reading a daily habit
Reading underpins the English paper and verbal reasoning. Aim for twenty minutes a day, and include some classic texts so older styles of writing feel familiar.
3. Build English skills beyond reading
Comprehension, grammar, punctuation and creative writing all matter. Encourage your child to write regularly, whether that’s stories, diaries or letters, and talk about how good writers create effects.
4. Practise verbal and non verbal reasoning
Reasoning questions follow patterns that become much easier with practice. Short, regular sessions with puzzles, word games and practice questions work better than long, occasional ones.
5. Use practice papers wisely
Practice papers help your child get used to the format and timing, and show you where to focus. Review mistakes together, calmly, so each paper becomes a learning opportunity.
6. Keep it positive
Celebrate effort and progress, not just scores. The 11 Plus is one step in your child’s education, and a calm, encouraging approach at home helps them perform at their best.
If your child would benefit from expert support, Geek School Tutoring offers 11 Plus tuition at our Catford and Beckenham centres and online.
Make reading part of the plan
Our weekly reading clubs build comprehension, vocabulary and inference with classic texts, one session a week.
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