Journey to Grammar School

Most experts recommend starting 11+ preparation 12-18 months before the exam, typically in Year 4 or early Year 5. Since the 11+ exam is taken in September of Year 6, starting in Year 4 gives your child around 2 years to cover all subjects thoroughly without cramming.

The 11+ exam typically tests: English (comprehension, grammar, vocabulary), Mathematics (arithmetic, problem-solving), Verbal Reasoning (logic using words), and Non-Verbal Reasoning (pattern recognition, spatial awareness). The exact format depends on the exam board - GL Assessment tests all four separately. Some areas like Birmingham also include Spatial Reasoning.

Experts recommend 30-50 minute study sessions, as primary-age children concentrate best in short bursts. A "little and often" approach is more effective than lengthy weekend sessions. For Year 4, aim for around 30 minutes twice a week. For Year 5, this can increase to 4-6 hours per week split across short, focused sessions.

GL Assessment tests are multiple-choice with four separate papers (English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning) and follow a predictable format. GL is used by the majority of grammar schools including Kent, Buckinghamshire, and Lincolnshire. CEM (Durham University) stopped offering paper-based 11+ tests in 2023, and most schools have now switched to GL Assessment.

There are 163 state-funded grammar schools in England, educating around 176,000 pupils (approximately 5% of secondary pupils). Kent has the largest grammar school system with 32 schools. Grammar schools are state schools with no tuition fees - entry is based solely on 11+ exam performance.

Registration typically opens in May-June and closes in late June to early July of Year 5. The 11+ exam is then taken in September of Year 6, and results are released in mid-October. You must also submit your secondary school application (CAF) by 31st October. Exact dates vary by region - always check with your local authority.

Grammar school entry is highly competitive. National statistics show grammar schools cater to roughly the top 25% of the ability range. Some London schools receive over 2,000 applications for around 93 places. Success depends on test performance and, in many cases, distance from the school. The average acceptance rate is approximately 23%.

For GL Assessment exams, children typically face around 260 questions in total. This is approximately: English and Maths each have around 50 questions with roughly 50 minutes allowed. Verbal Reasoning has approximately 80 questions in about 50 minutes. Non-Verbal Reasoning also has around 80 questions but split into shorter timed sections. Exact numbers may vary by region. All answers are multiple choice, and there is no penalty for wrong answers, so children should attempt every question.

We see several patterns: rushing through questions without reading carefully, getting stuck on hard questions instead of moving forward, forgetting to review answers at the end, leaving preparation too late, and not practising with time limits. Building good habits during practice - like flagging difficult questions to return to later - helps avoid these issues on exam day.

Pack the essentials the night before: two or more HB pencils, a sharpener, an eraser, and a clear pencil case. A water bottle and small snack are useful if there are breaks. Some venues permit analogue watches. Your test centre will confirm exact requirements - some ask for admission documents or photo ID, so check in advance.

Neither Verbal Reasoning nor Non-Verbal Reasoning appear in the standard primary curriculum. This means children need separate practice at home or with a tutor. VR involves word-based logic puzzles like codes and analogies. NVR uses shape patterns and spatial tasks. Because these are unfamiliar, regular practice is particularly important to build confidence and speed.