The 11 Plus Step by Step: A Simple Plan for Parents

If your child is in Year 4 or Year 5, the 11 Plus can feel a long way off and very close at the same time. Breaking preparation into clear steps makes it far more manageable for everyone.

Step 1: Know what your child will sit

Most 11 Plus tests are sat in September of Year 6. They usually cover some combination of English, maths, verbal reasoning and non verbal reasoning, but the mix, the format and the weighting vary by area and by school. Check the details for every school on your list before you plan anything else.

Step 2: Make a realistic study plan

Look honestly at how much time your child has around school, clubs and family life. Short, regular sessions beat long, occasional ones. A simple weekly planner helps your child see what’s coming and track their progress.

Step 3: Practise little and often

Once your child knows the basics, practice papers build familiarity with question types and timing. Start untimed, then gradually add time pressure. Always go through mistakes together, because that’s where most of the learning happens.

Step 4: Read widely, every day

Reading is the foundation of the English paper and a big help in verbal reasoning. Include some classic books, because their language is close to many exam extracts. Good starting points are The Wind in the Willows, The Secret Garden, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes.

Step 5: Get support where it’s needed

If one area is holding your child back, targeted help early on makes a big difference, whether that’s a tutor, a reading club or extra practice at home.

Step 6: Keep perspective

Remind your child that you’re proud of their effort, whatever the result. Children perform best when they feel supported rather than pressured.