The 11 plus is a competitive entrance examination that determines admission into grammar schools in the United Kingdom. These state-funded secondary schools are highly selective, admitting students based on their academic ability rather than their postcode or socioeconomic status. Typically taken in September of Year 6, the exam assesses a student's proficiency in key subjects such as English, mathematics, and reasoning. With over 160 grammar schools in England, competition for places is fierce, and the 11+ exam is considered a significant milestone in a student's academic journey. Gaining a place in Year 7 through the 11+ exam requires extensive preparation, dedication, and a high level of aptitude in the assessed subjects. 

The 11 plus exam is designed to evaluate a child's ability in core subjects and determine their potential for success in a grammar school setting. Although private senior school entrance exams are sometimes referred to as the 11 plus, the application process and level of difficulty may vary.

For 11 plus exams, the board determines the format of questions, which may be multiple-choice, standard format (requiring written answers), or a combination of both. To complete the exam, children receive a separate question booklet and answer sheet, with multiple-choice answers typically marked by a computer and standard format answers marked by teachers.

The 11 Plus grammar school exams primarily use two exam boards: CEM (Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring) and GL Assessment (Granada Learning). In addition to these, over 70 independent schools use a third examining body, ISEB (Independent Schools Examining Board).

For optimal 11 Plus exam preparation, it's important to determine which exam board each targeted school uses. With differing assessment methods across exam boards, preparations must be tailored accordingly.

The 11+ Plus exam is usually taken at the beginning of the Year 6 (September/October) when students are around 10-11 years old. Look for the key dates for the north London 11+ grammar schools and some 11+ independent schools.

The 11+ Plus exam typically includes tests in English, mathematics, verbal reasoning, and non-verbal reasoning. Read about the test subjects and formats  for the north London 11+ grammar schools and some 11+ independent schools.

A selective secondary school is a school that only admits students who have passed an entrance exam, such as the 11 plus. These schools typically have a more challenging academic curriculum intended for students likely to achieve highly. Read more about the north London 11+ grammar schools and some 11+ independent schools.

Selective secondary schools use the 11 plus exam results as part of their admission process. Students who pass the exam are usually offered a place at the school, subject to meeting other admission requirements.

If you plan on registering your child for 11+ Grammar schools, it's essential to know that the registration deadline can vary based on location and school. Typically, registration opens between May and August and lasts 4-6 weeks. Also, suppose your child is applying to multiple Grammar schools. In that case, it's important to note that you'll need to register separately for each school exam unless certain schools are part of a joint consortium. To avoid any confusion, it's best to contact the school directly for more information on their registration process or check out their website for all the details. 

Grammar schools are selective secondary schools that admit students based on their academic ability. Other types of secondary schools, such as comprehensive schools, do not have entrance exams and admit students of all academic abilities.

The benefits of attending a selective secondary school include a more challenging academic curriculum, higher academic standards, and opportunities to excel academically

The pass rate for 11+ exams varies depending on the school or local authority. However, it is generally quite competitive, with only a certain percentage (top 3-10%) of students being accepted.

The length of the 11 plus exams can vary, but they usually last between 45 and 90 minutes per test.

Parents can support their children by providing study materials, creating a structured study routine, and encouraging their children to take practice tests. They can also hire private tutors or enroll their child in 11 plus preparation courses.

Although there is no set percentage to pass the 11-plus, a score of around 85-90% can be a guide. In highly competitive schools, a higher score may be necessary, but with perseverance and determination, candidates can overcome any obstacle.

The English section of 11+ exams typically includes questions on grammar, punctuation, comprehension, and creative writing.

The mathematics section of 11+ exams typically includes questions on arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and problem-solving.

The verbal reasoning section of 11+ exams typically includes questions on synonyms, antonyms, odd-one-out, analogies, and verbal classification.

The non-verbal reasoning section of 11+ exams typically includes questions on sequence, odd-one-out, codes involving patterns, shapes, and spatial awareness

No

No

No, most of the schools do not allow you to use your watch.

Yes, students with special needs can take the 11+ exams. However, they may require additional accommodations or support to do so.

The 11 Plus grammar school exam results can vary depending on your location and the specific school you have applied to. However, most results should be available by the third week of October. If you are still determining when you can expect your results, it's highly recommended that you check with your school or the local education authority for the most current information.

If a student fails the 11+ Plus exam, they may still attend a non-selective secondary school or an independent school, but not a grammar secondary school or an independent selective school.

The lead-up to entrance exams, especially the 11 plus, can be a daunting and nerve-wracking experience. From my years of experience, I've learned that success rates dramatically improve when parents, children and an 11+ tutor approach the process collaboratively. Although exams are a single performance day, they require months and years of preparation. I aim to teach my students the necessary skills, instill motivation, and develop in-depth knowledge among the parents.