The 11+ Exam: What It Covers, When to Start Preparing, and If a Tutor Helps
The 11+ Exam: What It Covers, When to Start Preparing, and If a Tutor Helps
The 11+ is a pivotal assessment for many parents who want their child to attend a selective grammar or independent school. While the exam varies slightly between exam boards (CCEA, GL Assessment, and Thames Valley), the core structure is recognisable across England and Wales. In this post we break down the subjects and question types, outline the most effective timetable for 11 plus preparation, and examine when a private tutor can make a real difference.
1. What does the 11+ actually test?
| Subject | Typical Duration | Main Question Types | Key Skills |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verbal Reasoning | 45‑60 mins | Synonyms, analogies, odd one out, classification | Logical thinking, vocabulary, ability to spot patterns |
| Non‑Verbal Reasoning | 45‑60 mins | Shape rotation, mirror images, missing pieces, series | Spatial awareness, visual discrimination |
| Mathematics | 45‑60 mins | Arithmetic, fractions, percentages, simple geometry, word problems | Numeracy fluency, problem‑solving, mental calculation |
| English (Reading & Writing) | 45‑60 mins | Comprehension, grammar, punctuation, spelling, short composition | Reading comprehension, written communication |
Note: Some schools also include a Science or Modern Foreign Language paper, but the four subjects above are the most common.
Verbal & Non‑Verbal Reasoning
These sections are designed to assess a child’s innate reasoning ability rather than curriculum knowledge. The questions often involve patterns, sequences and logical deductions. Mastery comes from exposure to a wide variety of question formats and timed practice.
Mathematics
The maths content mirrors what pupils have covered in Key Stage 2 (KS2). Expect topics such as:
- Whole numbers up to 10,000
- Fractions, decimals and percentages
- Basic algebra (simple equations)
- Geometry (angles, symmetry, perimeter)
- Data handling (charts, averages)
English
Reading passages are drawn from age‑appropriate fiction and non‑fiction. The writing task is usually a short story or descriptive piece of 150‑200 words. Grammar and spelling questions test knowledge of the National Curriculum for English at KS2.
2. When should you start 11 plus preparation?
| Age | School Year | Recommended Focus |
|---|---|---|
| 9‑10 | Year 5 | Build a solid KS2 foundation – reading for pleasure, practising mental maths, and playing logic games. |
| 10‑11 | Year 6 (early) | Begin structured 11+ practice: diagnostic test, identify weak areas, and set a weekly revision routine. |
| 11‑12 | Year 6 (late) / Year 7 | Full‑length timed papers, review exam technique, and final polishing of weaker subjects. |
Why start early?
- Confidence: Children who have rehearsed the format feel less anxiety on the day.
- Skill Development: Reasoning skills improve with regular puzzles and brain‑teasers, which can be introduced well before formal practice begins.
- Balanced Lifestyle: Early preparation avoids the “cram‑in‑the‑last‑minute” rush that can lead to burnout.
A practical timeline
- Summer before Year 5 – Light exposure: weekly puzzle books, maths fact drills. No pressure.
- Autumn Year 5 – First diagnostic 11+ test (free online resources). Analyse results and set targets.
- Spring Year 5 – Targeted practice (e.g., 2‑3 sessions per week) focusing on the weakest subject.
- Summer Year 6 – Introduce timed practice papers. Aim for 70‑75% accuracy.
- Autumn Year 6 – Full‑length mock exams under exam conditions (2‑3 per term). Review mistakes.
- Winter/ Spring Year 6 – Fine‑tune timing, work on exam‑day strategies (reading instructions carefully, checking work).
- May/June – Light revision, mental‑math warm‑ups, and confidence‑building activities.
3. Does a tutor really help?
The evidence
A 2022 study by the Institute of Education found that pupils who received at least one hour of weekly targeted tutoring for the 11+ showed a 6‑point increase in average scores compared with peers who only used self‑study resources. The gain was most pronounced in verbal and non‑verbal reasoning – areas where classroom teaching often provides limited practice.
When tutoring adds value
| Situation | How a Tutor Helps |
|---|---|
| Weak reasoning skills | Structured puzzle sessions, instant feedback, and customised strategies for pattern recognition. |
| Maths gaps | Reinforcement of KS2 concepts, mental‑calculation drills, and step‑by‑step problem‑solving methods. |
| Exam technique | Teaching time‑management, question‑reading strategies, and how to mark and review work efficiently. |
| Motivation & Confidence | Regular goal‑setting, progress tracking, and a supportive adult presence that keeps stress low. |
Choosing the right tutor
- Subject expertise – Look for tutors with proven experience in the specific 11+ papers you’ll sit (e.g., a specialist in GL Assessment or CCEA).
- Track record – Ask for success stories or improvement percentages from previous pupils.
- Flexibility – Some families prefer online sessions, others need in‑person visits in a particular city. Our platform lets you filter by location, such as tutors in London or tutors in Manchester.
- Trial lesson – A short introductory session can reveal whether the tutor’s style matches your child’s learning preferences.
If you’re unsure where to start, you can browse our vetted pool of subject‑specific experts, for example Maths tutors or English tutors.
4. Practical tips for self‑directed 11 plus preparation
- Create a visual timetable – Use a colour‑coded planner (e.g., red for reasoning, blue for maths). Stick it on the fridge so the whole family can see progress.
- Mix mediums – Combine paper workbooks, interactive apps, and printable worksheets to keep sessions fresh.
- Set micro‑goals – Instead of “improve reasoning”, aim for “solve 10 analogies correctly in 15 minutes”. Celebrate each milestone.
- Review mistakes – After every practice paper, spend at least 10 minutes analysing each error. Ask why the answer was wrong and how to avoid the same trap.
- Use past papers – Many exam boards release sample papers. Working through them under timed conditions is the closest simulation to the real exam.
- Keep balance – Ensure at least two evenings a week are free of formal study. Play board games, sport, or arts – a well‑rounded child retains information better.
5. How to start your 11 plus journey with Folio Tutors
- Identify the exam board – Check your chosen school’s website for the specific test (GL, CCEA, etc.).
- Search for specialists – Use our filter to find tutors who list “11+ preparation” and the relevant board in their profile.
- Read reviews – Parents often comment on how quickly their child’s scores improved.
- Book a trial – A 30‑minute session costs nothing and gives you a feel for the tutor’s approach.
- Set a review date – After four weeks, evaluate progress and adjust the plan if needed.
Whether you decide on a weekly hour of one‑to‑one support or a monthly intensive workshop, the right tutor can turn a vague preparation plan into a clear, achievable pathway.
6. Final thoughts
The 11+ is not just a test of knowledge; it measures how a child thinks under pressure. Starting 11 plus preparation early, using a blend of self‑study and targeted tutoring, gives your child the best chance of securing a place at their preferred school. Remember that consistency, realistic goal‑setting, and a supportive learning environment are the three pillars of success.
If you’re ready to give your child a structured edge, explore our full catalogue of tutors at find‑tutors and take the first step towards a confident exam day.
Keywords: 11 plus preparation, 11+ exam, verbal reasoning, non‑verbal reasoning, KS2 maths, grammar school entrance, private tutoring, exam technique