When are the 11 plus exams?

Most grammar schools ask your child to sit 11+ tests in the Autumn term of Year 6. Private school entrance exams tend to be a bit later, at the beginning of the Spring term of Year 6.

Between Years 5 and 6, you can start timed exam papers. Practise one or two Verbal Reasoning or Non-Verbal Reasoning papers each week.

In the Autumn term of Year 6, do mock exams if you can or practise an entrance exam for a school that is not your first choice. Some grammar school exams start in September, so you will need to enrol. Keep an eye on the local press, as schools usually place adverts announcing open days, enrolment procedures and entrance exam dates. Most independent schools hold exams at the beginning of the Spring Term in Year 6. If your child is taking exams in the Spring term, practise one paper each day during the Christmas holiday.