Understanding the 11 Plus: A Parent’s Guide to What’s Tested

The 11 Plus is the entrance test for grammar schools, and many independent schools use similar assessments. It’s usually sat at the start of Year 6. Knowing what’s tested helps you prepare in the right way.

The four main areas

• English: reading comprehension, often using extracts from classic or more challenging texts, and sometimes a piece of writing.
• Maths: arithmetic, problem solving and reasoning with numbers, typically up to the end of Key Stage 2.
• Verbal reasoning: problems using words and letters, such as synonyms, codes and word relationships.
• Non verbal reasoning: problems using shapes, patterns and sequences.

It varies by area

Different regions and schools use different test providers and formats. Some focus heavily on English and maths, others include both kinds of reasoning, and some independent schools set their own papers and interviews. Always check the requirements for the schools you’re applying to.

Where reading fits in

Reading supports far more of the exam than many parents realise. It’s the foundation of the English paper, and a wide vocabulary is a big advantage in verbal reasoning. Classic literature is especially useful, because the language matches the style of many comprehension extracts.

Some good choices include The Wind in the Willows, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, The Railway Children, Treasure Island and Gulliver’s Travels for more confident readers.

Building a simple plan

• Start early and keep sessions short and regular.
• Cover each area of the test, giving extra time to weaker ones.
• Use practice papers to build familiarity with the format and timing.
• Keep reading every day, alongside any formal practice.