What are 11+ exams?
The 11+ is the entrance exam procedure which children
take to gain a place in a grammar school. Although the 11+ is found in
both the state system and in the independent schools sector, much of the
country abolished the 11+ system several decades ago, meaning that the 11+
system found in most of the country exists in tandem with non-selective
(comprehensive) schools.
Grammar schools are schools which select their pupils
based on their strength and ability of their performance in the11+ examination.
What is tested?
The 11 Plus exam usually consists of an assessment in
English, Mathematics, Non-verbal Reasoning and Verbal Reasoning.
The 11 Plus exam usually consists of
one or more of these four subjects:-
English, Mathematics, Non-verbal Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning.
English, Mathematics, Non-verbal Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning.
When does the 11+ take place:
The date of a particular selection
test to a grammar school varies from area to area, but generally speaking most
state grammar schools have their entrance tests between the months of October
and February. However, some schools such as the King Edwards foundation of
schools in Birmingham have formed themselves into consortia so that your child
sits one exam which is then used as an application to a whole group of schools.
It must be stressed though that certain independent grammar schools may set
their tests during other times of the year.
How to apply for the 11+ exam:
Most local authorities send out
details of the 11+ exam in their area to every Year 6 child via the child’s
primary school. There will be a deadline for the application to be handed in by
which will depend upon your local authority, therefore it is generally a good
idea to contact your local authority. If the grammar school you wish you child
to apply to is in another area from which you live, it would be advisable to
contact the grammar school direct.
As places at the existing grammar
schools are at a premium, the only way of securing a place is through your
child reaching a high enough mark in the selection test, which each grammar
school sets. It is estimated that approximately 100,000 children sit the 11
Plus exam in England each year for around 15,000 places, giving each child a 1
in 6 chance of gaining a place.
In addition there is no set date to
when the results of the 11+ are published- it all depends on the local
authority, but since 2004, the name of the secondary school your child has been
offered a place at, is sent out on the 1st of March.
How do I prepare my child?
Your child will be tested in Maths and English with
which you can help by practising questions and activities at home.
However many parents choose to hire tutors, as research and results have shown
that one to one sessions brings increased focus, attention and attainment for
the child.
Interested parents might wish to contact Exam Central
for more advice and support:
0121 456 4766
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