The 11 plus process doesn’t have to be as daunting as it may first seem. Organisation and early preparation are key. Over the summer holidays, we have received a number of inquiries about timelines, processes, academic preparation and deadlines. So, in order to provide some clarity and guidance, we have put together a general step-by-step guide on the 11+ process.
Year 4
- This is the last opportunity to register for certain schools.
- Having an academic assessment to determine your child’s level will be useful in identifying areas of strength and development: this will be useful when planning a work programme for the road ahead.
Year 5
- Topics covered in Year 5 will form the bedrock of the 11 plus syllabus. Make sure that all work covered in school during Year 5 is covering the key components of 11+ syllabus.
- It is advisable to compare your child’s school syllabus with the 11+ syllabus.
- Making the most of the long summer break can be invaluable in ensuring maximum progress is made at the start of Year 6 and that your child is confident about the upcoming term.
Year 6
- Unsurprisingly, this is the most crucial year for the 11 plus.
- Autumn Term (September – December): During this time tests for certain grammar and independent schools are held (including verbal and non-verbal computerised tests). There are also interviews with heads (which have become an increasingly important part of the application process) and school reports from your child’s current school will be written and sent. October half term can be a useful time for some targeted tutoring support.
- Christmas Holidays: While a break from the end of school term is of course advised, clearly the December break is a crucial time for revision. 11+ exams begin at the end of the first full week of January, which in some cases will be when the new school term starts. If tutoring support is required, it should be measured in quantity and targeted in its approach. Bear in mind, that exam practice and exam technique are just as important as covering the 11+ syllabus content.
- January: Exams begin and students will be examined in Maths, English, verbal reasoning and non-verbal reasoning. Some students are also examined in science.
- Late January – March: results released (depending on school)
For further information or support on any aspect of the 11 plus, including My Tutor Club’s 11+ revision courses and school interview practice, please do not hesitate to get in touch.