It is a common question asked by parents whose children aim for grammar school positions. Most grammar schools require the 11 Plus test to grant admission to students.
This blog explores in detail whether your child must take the 11 Plus exam for grammar school admission, whether there are any exceptions, and the top effective tips for preparing for the 11 Plus test.
Overview of 11 Plus Exam
- Students take this test to secure positions in Year 7 in the grammar schools.
- The grammar school entrance exam takes place in September, and results are typically announced in October.
- The 11 Plus includes questions from English, Maths, Vocabulary, Verbal and Nonverbal Reasoning.
- Each grammar school has its own format for the 11 Plus test.
- Students in Year 6, aged between 10-11 years old, take the 11 Plus test.
Is the 11 Plus Compulsory for Grammar School Admission?
- Yes, most grammar schools require the 11 Plus test to admit students. A few may have different criteria for granting admission.
- There are more than 160 grammar schools in the UK. Students aim for the top grammar schools in their local area.
- Grammar schools are state-funded schools that take the 11 Plus test to assess your child’s performance and determine their eligibility for a Year 7 position. With effective online 11 Plus test preparation, your child achieves the top scores and secures a position in the top grammar schools.
- The 11 Plus exam is highly competitive and children need to prepare well to pass it. There are so many 11 Plus tutoring platforms which provide online 11 Plus exam preparation for the students to achieve a spot in the grammar schools.
Are There Any Alternatives to the 11 Plus?
Although very limited, there are still alternative options that your child can choose from:
- Appeal Process: If your child missed securing a place in grammar school by a narrow pass mark gap, you can apply for an appeal to the grammar school. You must provide them with proof of what affected your child’s performance. However, the success rate of such appeals is very low.
- Late Transfer or 12 Plus and 13 Plus Tests: Some schools offer late transfer tests, also known as 12/13 Plus, to grant admission to students.
- Alternative Schools: If your child fails or does not want to take the 11 Plus test, they can apply to alternative secondary schools.
How to Prepare for the Grammar School Entrance Exam?
Most grammar schools require the 11 Plus test, so the following are easy and effective tips for passing it.
- Hire Professional Support: An 11 Plus tutor can help your child achieve top grades.
- Teach Exam Techniques: It is essential to learn and master exam techniques to pass the 11 Plus test and achieve high grades.
- Focus on Weak Areas: Your child cannot pass the 11 Plus test without focusing and working on weak areas. You should assist your child in identifying weak points and developing strategies to overcome them.
- Practice Daily: Insist that your child practice daily using different 11 Plus resources.
- Mock Exams: Nothing builds your child’s confidence for the 11 Plus exam quite like the 11 Plus mock exams. The best strategy is to help your child sign up for online 11 Plus tuition that offers mock exam sessions.
Conclusion
Most grammar schools require the 11 Plus test to grant admission to students in Year 7. Hiring a professional tutor, using effective resources, and mastering exam techniques can help your child pass the 11 Plus test with flying colours and secure a seat in their dream grammar school in their local area.
