The Ultimate Guide to the 11+ Exam: Everything Parents Need to Know
- rocketologyuk
- Sep 6
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 7
The 11+ exam is one of the biggest milestones in a child’s educational journey. For parents, though, it often feels like navigating a maze: different exam boards, varying subjects, registration deadlines, and the constant question — “When should my child start preparing?”
This guide brings everything together. You’ll find out what the 11+ exam involves, which schools use it, when to start preparing, and how to support your child with confidence — whether they’re just beginning in Year 4, developing skills in Year 5, or fine-tuning exam technique in Year 6.
Contents
What is the 11+ Exam?
The 11+ exam is taken by children in Year 6 (ages 10–11) as an entrance test for selective grammar schools and many independent schools.
📍 Grammar schools use it to select students based on academic ability.
🏫 Independent schools often use their own version of the exam, usually alongside interviews and reports.
It’s designed to identify academic potential, but with the right support, preparation, and mindset, children of all abilities can approach it with confidence.
What Subjects Are Tested?
While content varies by school, most 11+ exams include:
English → comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, spelling, and sometimes creative writing.
Maths → arithmetic, problem solving, reasoning, and applied KS2 topics.
Verbal reasoning → logic puzzles using words, codes, and patterns.
Non-verbal reasoning → shape sequences, visual puzzles, and spatial awareness.
Interviews (independent schools only) → assessing curiosity, communication, and creativity.
👉 Our courses and resources cover all 11+ subjects — English, maths, reasoning, and interview preparation — so your child feels fully prepared.
Which Exam Boards Are Used?
The main exam boards are:
GL Assessment (GL):
Multiple-choice format.
Covers English, maths, verbal and non-verbal reasoning.
Widely used by grammar schools across the UK.
CEM (Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring):
Combination of multiple-choice and written responses.
Known for less predictable question style.
Strong emphasis on vocabulary, problem solving, and comprehension.
Some independent schools set their own bespoke papers, so always check entry requirements carefully.
The Rocketology 11+ Journey 🚀
We’ve mapped out a clear, three-step pathway that mirrors your child’s school years and ensures preparation feels structured and purposeful.
Year 4 – LAUNCH: Introduction to the 11+
This is the foundation stage. Children build core skills in reading, maths fluency, and reasoning through fun, confidence-boosting activities. The focus is curiosity, not exam drilling.
Year 5 – VOYAGE: Developing the 11+ Skillset
Structured preparation begins. Children strengthen comprehension and problem-solving, build exam stamina, and learn techniques through courses like Rocketology’s Orbit programme, where small-group learning makes practice motivating and collaborative.
Year 6 – BOOST: 11+ Ready Confidence
The final stage. Here children take mock exams, practise under timed conditions, and learn strategies to manage nerves. The focus is on confidence, resilience, and exam-day readiness.
👉 Want to see where your child fits? Explore our 11+ Journey
When Should My Child Start Preparing?
This is the question most parents ask. The short answer? It depends on your child.
Year 4 (Launch): Gentle preparation through building foundations.
Year 5 (Voyage): Focused exam preparation, practice papers, and structured tuition.
Year 6 (Boost): Targeted exam practice, mock tests, and confidence strategies.
👉 For more detail, see our blog: When Should My Child Start Preparing for the 11+?
How to Prepare for the 11+ at Home
Parents play a key role in supporting preparation, even outside of tuition.
Daily reading: Builds vocabulary and comprehension.
Games and puzzles: Crosswords, logic puzzles, and maths challenges keep it fun.
Maths fluency: Quick-fire practice of times tables and mental maths.
Practice papers: Introduce gradually, starting with short sessions before timed practice.
👉 Parent Tip: Keep sessions short and engaging. Fifteen minutes of focused effort is better than an hour of frustration.
Should I Get a Tutor?
Not every child needs tuition, but structured support can make a real difference.
✅ Tutors can teach the subjects (Verbal and Non-verbal Reasoning, Creative Writing) not covered in school as part of the National Curriculum
✅ They can identify gaps and tailor strategies.
✅ Group tuition helps children feel they’re not alone in the journey.
✨ Rocketology tutors are qualified educators, and our small group clubs and 11+ courses, we combine expertise with a supportive, confidence-building environment.
11+ Exam Day: Tips for Success
Practical preparation makes exam day less daunting:
📋 Checklist: Pencils, erasers, ruler, water bottle, snack (if allowed).
🍳 Breakfast: Protein + slow-release carbs (e.g. eggs, porridge, fruit).
😌 Calm strategies: Deep breaths, positive affirmations, “I can do this.”
🕐 Arrive early: Avoids last-minute panic.
Confidence is as important as knowledge — children who feel calm perform better.
Common 11+ Myths Busted
❌ “Only geniuses pass the 11+.”
Truth: Success comes from steady preparation and confidence.
❌ “You need years of tutoring.”
Truth: Many children succeed with structured preparation starting in Year 5.
❌ “If my child struggles now, they’ll never be ready.”
Truth: Confidence and growth mindset can transform outcomes.
Final Checklist for Parents
✅ Research schools and check requirements.
✅ Note exam registration deadlines. ✅ Plan a realistic preparation timetable.
✅ Book mock exams to build familiarity.
✅ Support your child’s confidence as much as their content knowledge.
The 11+ exam may feel daunting, but with the right structure and support, it becomes an opportunity for children to grow in confidence and skills. By building strong foundations, developing key techniques, and focusing on final-stage readiness, you can help your child approach the 11+ with calm and confidence.
Rocketology is here to guide you at every step.
