Introduction
At Bristol Tutor Company, we know that preparing for the 11 Plus can be a major milestone for both children and parents. It’s an important step for those aiming for grammar schools or selective independent schools. With the right preparation and a good set of 11 plus exam papers, your child can feel confident and ready when the big day arrives.
In this post, we’ll explain what the 11 Plus exam involves, what kinds of topics are usually covered, and where you can find useful resources like 11 plus papers and free 11 plus exam past papers.
What is the 11 Plus Exam?
The 11 Plus is an entrance test taken by children in Year 6. It helps grammar and selective schools decide who is best suited for a more academically focused environment. Most pupils take the exam in September, but the exact format can vary depending on the school.
Some schools use papers provided by GL Assessment, which is one of the most popular providers. Others may design their own exams. Because of these differences, it’s important to check what your chosen schools require so you can prepare properly.
What Do 11 Plus Exam Papers Cover?
Most 11 plus exam papers include a mix of different subject areas. These typically include:
- Verbal Reasoning
This section focuses on how well your child can work with language. Questions might include word patterns, codes, synonyms, or solving logic puzzles using words. - Non-Verbal Reasoning
This part uses pictures and shapes instead of text. Your child may be asked to complete a sequence, spot the odd one out, or figure out how shapes relate to each other. - English
English questions usually include reading comprehension, spelling, punctuation and grammar. Some schools may also ask for a short piece of writing. - Mathematics
Maths sections focus on Key Stage 2 content. Expect questions on arithmetic, word problems, fractions and measurements. These papers are usually timed, so it’s useful to practise with time limits.
Because every school is slightly different, using the right 11 plus papers will help your child prepare for the specific test they’ll be sitting.
Where to Find 11 Plus Papers and Revision Materials
One of the best ways to get ready for the exam is to use realistic practice resources. Working through 11 plus exam past papers helps children get used to the style of the questions and practise working under pressure.
We recommend taking a look at the MME 11 Plus page. It has a wide range of helpful materials, including mock exams, topic-by-topic revision and practice papers based on both GL Assessment and school-written formats.
Final Thoughts
The 11 Plus might seem like a big challenge at first, but with the right support and access to quality 11 plus exam papers, your child can feel much more confident. A steady approach and regular practice can make all the difference.
To find a full collection of 11 plus papers and download free 11 plus exam past papers, head over to MME’s 11 Plus resources.
If you’re based in the Bristol area and would like expert support for your child’s 11 Plus preparation, get in touch with Bristol Tutor Company. We’re always happy to help.