When Should My Child Start Preparing for the 11+?
What Is the 11+ Exam?
The 11+ usually tests skills in English, maths, verbal reasoning, and non-verbal reasoning. While many of these areas overlap with the primary curriculum, the style of questioning can be unfamiliar. That’s why preparation is valuable—it gives children the chance to practise the format, strengthen core skills, and build confidence.
Early Preparation: Building Strong Foundations (Years 3–4)
In Years 3 and 4, formal 11+ practice papers aren’t necessary. Instead, focus on:
Reading widely to expand vocabulary and comprehension.
Practising mental maths and problem-solving skills.
Encouraging curiosity so children feel confident tackling new challenges.
At this stage, the best way to prepare for the 11+ at home is through fun, everyday learning activities rather than drilling past papers. Over-preparing too early can lead to stress or loss of motivation.
The Best Time to Begin Structured 11+ Preparation (Year 5)
For most children, Year 5 is the ideal time to start preparing for the 11+. By this point, they’re ready to handle exam-style work, but there’s still plenty of time before the test itself. A balanced programme might include:
Weekly practice in reasoning, comprehension, and applied maths.
Introducing exam technique—like how to manage time effectively.
Gradual exposure to 11+ practice papers.
This steady approach helps children feel prepared without the pressure of cramming.
Final Stage: Focused 11+ Exam Practice (Year 6)
In the months before the exam, targeted revision helps consolidate skills. This might involve:
Timed practice papers to build stamina.
Identifying weaker topics and giving them extra attention.
Boosting confidence under exam conditions.
Parents often ask us for 11+ exam tips at this stage. The most important one? Keep preparation balanced. Children who sleep well, eat healthily, and enjoy downtime perform better on the day.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Starting too late – last-minute preparation over the summer often feels stressful.
Starting too early – intensive tuition from Year 3 can risk burnout.
Relying only on past papers – real success comes from deep understanding, not memorising patterns.
How We Support 11+ Preparation
Our tutoring is designed to take the stress out of the 11+. We focus on:
Building strong subject foundations.
Developing problem-solving and reasoning skills.
Making learning enjoyable and confidence-boosting.
This way, children don’t just “train for a test”—they gain skills that will help them thrive in secondary school and beyond.
Final Thoughts
So, when should your child start preparing for the 11+? For most families, Year 5 is the sweet spot, with Years 3–4 focused on developing strong foundations. Every child is different, but with consistent practice, the right support, and a positive approach, the 11+ can be a rewarding journey—not just an exam to get through.
If you’re wondering how best to prepare for the 11+ at home or would like tailored support, our tutors are here to guide your child every step of the way.
Ready to give your child the right support? Explore our 11+ tutoring services to see how we can help them prepare with confidence.