11+ preparation

11+ tests are academic assessments that are commonly used in the education systems of the United Kingdom and some other countries. These tests are typically taken by students in their final year of primary school, around the age of 10 or 11, hence the name "11+". The purpose of these tests is to evaluate the students' academic abilities and determine their suitability for admission to selective secondary schools.

The format and content of 11+ tests can vary depending on the school or region, but they typically cover a range of subjects, including English, mathematics, verbal reasoning, and non-verbal reasoning. The tests are designed to assess the students' reasoning, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills, as well as their knowledge and understanding of the core subjects.

English tests in the 11+ often assess the students' comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, and writing skills. Mathematics tests usually cover topics such as arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and problem-solving. Verbal reasoning tests assess the students' ability to understand and manipulate words, while non-verbal reasoning tests focus on assessing their ability to solve visual puzzles and patterns.

These tests are considered highly competitive, as the number of available places in selective secondary schools is often limited and the demand for admission is high. Students who perform well in the 11+ tests have a higher chance of securing a place in a prestigious secondary school, which is often seen as a pathway to higher education and future career opportunities.

Preparing for the 11+ tests often involves practice papers, revision guides, and tutoring to familiarize students with the format and content of the assessments. Some schools also offer preparatory courses to help students develop the necessary skills and knowledge required to excel in these tests.

Overall, 11+ tests are rigorous assessments designed to identify the most academically capable students for admission to selective secondary schools. They play a significant role in the education system, helping to determine the educational opportunities available to young students and shaping their future academic journeys

How can your child benefit from an 11+ tutor?

In the 11+ tests, the questions tend to cover areas of work that won't have been taught in school yet as they are based around the year 6 curriculum, dipping into year 7.  As your child will be sitting the test at the beginning of year 6 it's unlikely they will have covered the curriculum areas as well as the Verbal and Non Verbal requirements of the test.

Hiring a tutor that is experienced in the 11+ test will help your child hugely.  I will identify any gaps in learning that your child has and use the sessions to teach those.  I will also give your child lots of practice in the Verbal and Non Verbal elements as these are the most challenging and quite specific.  Your child will be given past papers and shown how to manage their time effectively in these tests.  

11+ preparation should begin at least a year before the test and sometimes this can be 2 years!