The 11+ exam is one of the most competitive educational milestones your child will face. With grammar school places in high demand across London, preparation has never been more important. This guide covers everything you need to know.
What is the 11+ Exam?
The 11+ (Eleven Plus) is a selective entrance exam taken in Year 6 (typically aged 10–11) for entry into grammar schools and selective independent schools. Most exams take place in September or October of Year 6.
What Does the 11+ Cover?
The 11+ typically covers four areas:
- Mathematics — arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and problem-solving
- English — comprehension, writing, vocabulary, and spelling
- Verbal Reasoning (VR) — word patterns, analogies, and logical thinking
- Non-Verbal Reasoning (NVR) — spatial awareness and pattern recognition
The exact format varies by school and region — some London grammar schools use the GL Assessment while others use CEM (Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring).
When Should You Start Preparing?
Most families begin preparation 12–18 months before the exam — typically in Year 4 or early Year 5. However, intensive preparation in the final 6 months before the exam (from about March of Year 5 onwards) can also be very effective.
Signs you should start sooner:
- Your child is significantly below year-average in Maths or English
- There is a particular weakness in VR or NVR
- Your target schools are extremely competitive
How Tutoring Helps
A good 11+ tutor does three things:
- Identifies gaps quickly through targeted assessments
- Builds exam technique — particularly time management and question strategies
- Builds confidence — the 11+ is as much a mental challenge as an academic one
At Premier Tutoring UK, our AI system generates personalised practice questions after every lesson — so your child is always practising exactly what they need to improve on.
Preparing at Home
In addition to tutoring, here are practical tips for home preparation:
- 10–15 minutes of VR/NVR practice daily (not hours — consistency beats cramming)
- Read widely — vocabulary is one of the best predictors of English performance
- Use official past papers and GL/CEM practice books
- Practise under timed conditions as the exam date approaches
Ready to Start?
Our 11+ tutors cover all four areas and are experienced with London grammar school entry requirements. WhatsApp us to arrange an initial session.